Latest update 6/14/25:

Hello paddlers, volunteers, fans, family members, supporters, vendors, and sponsors:

Per the City of Champlin there is no current threat to the general public and no shelter-in-place for Champlin. All Minnesota Paddling Opener events will continue as planned. We look forward to seeing you tomorrow. 

We were horrified to learn of the tragic shooting of two politicians here in Minnesota this morning and our thoughts and prayers go out to all affected. 

If you have any questions please respond to this email or text or call the race hotline at 507.400.0669

Warmly,

Scott Miller and Todd Foster

Race Directors

Previous updates:

We recommend arriving at Mississippi West Regional Park between 11:15am and 12:15pm so you don’t miss the noon to 1pm launch window and you have time to check-in and get a safety briefing from the Paddle Bridge Kayak Guides.

There was incorrect shuttle information on the “Paddler’s Guide” page—the correct information is that you drive to the start, you launch between noon and 1pm and if you are going to take the shuttle from the finish line back to your car you make sure to get to the finish line by 3pm so you can board the shuttle at 3:15pm.

If you are doing your own shuttle and you are parking at the finish line, please see updated parking information at the bottom of this page.

Previous update:

Text or call the Race Hotline at anytime with questions (also for emergencies during the Root Beer Float)

507.400.0669

We recommend all participants save this number in their phone

Hello 5-mile “Root Beer Float” Participants,

Thanks for signing up for the 5-mile Root Beer Float!

This update includes everything you need to know—please read it carefully.

Remember:

If you are bringing your own boat, bring it to Mississippi West Regional Park in Ramsey, between 11:30 and 12:30pm on Sunday, June 15th, 2025.  

If you are renting a boat, the boat will be at Mississippi West Regional Park ready for you to launch. 

Paddlers can launch no earlier than noon and no later than 1pm. 

Please check in with a guide from Paddle Bridge Kayak Tours before you launch for a brief safety talk. 

The float takes between 75 minutes and 2 hours. 

If you are taking the free shuttle, board it at the finish line at Mississippi Point Park in Champlin to bring you back to get your car at 3:30pm.   

Quick Checklist

• Sign the waiver if you haven’t yet.

• Read: Paddler’s Guide | Race Rules | Race Overview

• Follow us: Facebook Page and join our community group.

Thanks to Our Sponsors

Special thanks to our Title Sponsor, Great River Energy, and all our amazing partners who make this event possible.

Volunteer!

We need volunteers for the MR 145 Friday night, Saturday, and for all the races at the Champlin finish line.  Email us: info@twopaddles.org.

Post-Paddle Party at Finish Line

This year’s celebration is right at the finish line in Mississippi Point Park, Champlin—live music by Uncle Kenny, sponsor booths, and cheering for finishers! Bring chairs or blankets. Enjoy the rides and food at the adjacent Father Hennepin Festival.

Parking for the Party in Champlin

If you are driving to the finish line, park in the Mississippi Crossings lots just uphill from the park.
Note: West River Road (south entrance) is closed—access parking via Miller Road off Hwy 169 then walk down to Mississippi Point Park. See attached image

Questions?

Email us at info@twopaddles.org

See you on the water!
Scott Miller & Todd Foster
Race Directors