The Bigfork Whitewater Festival will be celebrating its 51st year! We welcome you to join us for this historic, local event as either a competitor or spectator this Memorial Day Weekend in Downtown Bigfork.
Bigfork, Montana is located on the north end of Flathead Lake, where the Swan River spills into Bigfork Bay. The last mile of the Swan River, known as the "Wild Mile", is a class IV section of whitewater. This beautiful and challenging whitewater venue has a scenic nature trail paralleling the north side, giving spectators front row seats for some of the best whitewater action in the area.
Date and Time
Friday May 22, 2026 Sunday May 24, 2026
Saturday, May 23rd
8:30 - 10:00 a.m. Registration/Check In: - Kayaks, SUP Race, Rafts - Downtown in front of Lake Baked
10:00 a.m. Lower Slalom Race: Powerhouse/ Sliter’s Park
11:00 a.m. SUP Races Begin: Bigfork Bay Public Dock
Tentative: Beginner @ 11:00 / Intermediate @ 11:30 / Advanced @ 12:00
11:00 a.m. Downriver Raft Time Trial: Top 8 teams advance
12:30 p.m. - Mandatory Safety Meeting @ put in (South Shore Access off Hwy 209)
1:00 p.m. Expert Slalom
9:30 p.m. - 1:00 a.m. Saturday Night Dance Party
Sunday, May 24th
8:00 - 9:00 a.m. Registration
9:00 a.m. 1st heat Raft Head-to-Head
10:30 a.m. Down River Race
12:00 p.m. 2nd heat Raft Head-to-Head
12:30 p.m. Giant Slalom
3:00 p.m. Final Rafting Heats
6:00 p.m. Awards ceremony at The Garden Bar at the conclusion of all racing!
Location
Bigfork, MT
Fees/Admission
Free
Contact Information
Dave Meyers
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