Description

The 2025 Gladwin County River Race of Two Cities celebrates outdoor recreation and the natural resources that define Gladwin County. Highlighting years of conservation efforts by the Gladwin Conservation District and local partners, this event will showcase the revitalization of the Cedar River and the ways that outdoor recreation can bring people together!

This event is made possible by a number of local partnerships and the Gladwin County community. We welcome spectators and participants far and wide to share in the festivities and experience Gladwin County.

• Friday is the official River Race kickoff celebration at Gladwin City Park! The evening will have casual kayak floats, a fun run/walk, concessions hosted by Gladwin HS Travel Club, crafts and activities for all ages, outdoor education with local conservancies, live music, and vendors!

• Saturday is Race Day! The competition will begin with an Honor Guard Ceremony in tribute to Memorial Day with race heats beginning at 9am at Gladwin City Park. There will be concessions, crafts and activities, and vendors to help us start Race Day off right! The main event is a 12.5 mile canoe/kayak marathon that will take participants from Gladwin City Park to Beaverton's Ross Lake Park. Cheer on your favorite paddler with spectator locations along the race route and welcome them across the finish line 12.5 miles later in Beaverton!

• Saturday afternoon is Ross Lake Park's time to shine! As racers arrive in Beaverton they will be met with a celebration like no other thanks to the hard work of partners like the Beaverton Area Business Association. If 12.5 miles is a bit too far for your liking, sign up for our 0.5 mile Ross Lake Sprint Races! Taking place Saturday afternoon, this competition will separate the paddlers from the floaters and give you the chance to step onto the podium!