9th Annual Powell River
Kayak & Canoe Regatta
Saturday April 25, 2026
Registration will Open February 1, 2026
About the Powell River Regatta
The 9th Annual Powell River Kayak & Canoe Regatta is a 12-mile paddle race on the scenic Powell River in Northeast Tennessee. The course begins at Well Being Retreat Center and ends at Riverside Rentals — a beautiful stretch of river perfect for paddlers of all levels.
Hosted by the Claiborne County Chamber of Commerce and the Claiborne County Tourism Commission, the event supports the Powell River Blueway Trail Project, which expands public access for kayaking, canoeing, and fishing.
There’s a place for every paddler:
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Nine competitive race divisions with $150 first place and $50 second place cash prizes for each competitive devision
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A relaxed recreational paddling category (no prize money)
More than 120 boats participated last year — and we expect even more this year. Join us for a fun and meaningful day on the water.
* Registration Opens February 1st, 2026 *
About the Powell River Blueway Trail Project
All Net Proceeds from the Regatta go to the Powell River Blueway Trail project, an endeavor by the Powell River Tourism Committee of the Claiborne County Tourism Commission to improve public access onto the Powell River for fishing and paddling.
About the Powell River
The Powell River is a Class 1 (easy) paddling river. It is one of the two largest free-flowing (un-dammed) rivers in Tennessee.
The Powell has a nice mix of slack water in deeper holes, swift water and the occassional ledge to navigate.
Again this year, Laura and Mike Pallos will be coordinating the event.
They have attended retreats at Well Being for many years and always bring a warm, personable presence. Their care and attention help ensure this gathering runs smoothly and feels welcoming for all who attend.
To Volunteer for the 2026 Regatta on Sunday April 25th,
please contact Laura Pallos at:
or call her at 863-699-6435
Volunteer For This Event
Last year, 78 people generously volunteered to make the Regatta happen.
Lots of help is needed with tasks such as:
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lunch prep, parking
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registration
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truck transport of boats and people
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helping people out of their boats at the finish line
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race timing, starting line crew, etc
On Race Day, breakfast, lunch and a Regatta tee-shirt will be provided for Volunteers.
This is a fun time, a worthy cause, and a chance to meet a lot of great people.
Camping and Meals
The Start Line for this event is at Well Being Retreat Center.
Well Being Retreat Center is a licensed campground, with expansive, fairly level pasture along the river available for tent camping ($25 per person, per night).
Nearby you’ll find clean men’s and women’s restrooms with showers, picnic tables, outdoor grills, and potable water.
Supper will be available the evening before the Regatta in the Main Conference Building at the cost of $15 per person, and a full hot breakfast will be served the morning of the event at the Powell River Pavilion — just a short walk from the Start line and will be priced at $10 per person.
If you have any questions about accommodations or meals offered during the Regatta please contact Heather at registration@wellbeingfoundation.org
* Volunteers do not use this registration form. Instead please reach out to Laura Pallos for meals and accommodations *