Written by Danielle Taylor

Paddlers, get ready to hit the water! The annual Cameron County Canoe & Kayak Classic is one of the largest downriver canoe and kayak events in Pennsylvania and was honored as the Pennsylvania Wilds 2014 Event of the Year, and this year’s April 7 race marks its 44th run. Each spring, hundreds of paddlers come from far and wide to join in on this floating event that passes through the scenic heart of Cameron County.

The 12-mile mostly flatwater course travels along the Driftwood Branch of Sinnemahoning Creek, and paddlers may encounter some Class I whitewater and a few whirlpools. Canoe and kayak rentals are available from Country Squirrel Outfitters in Ridgway, but make your reservation early to secure your boat. Shuttles will be available. After the main event, race winners in each category will receive handmade paddle plaques at a chicken dinner held at Driftwood Saloon. Tickets for the award ceremony will be available for purchase onsite the morning of the race.

Cameron and Elk Counties feature many excellent lodging options, so you can travel in ahead of time and have an easy morning before the race as well as an after-race home base to wash up and cool down.

Find more interesting places to visit and things to do in the Pennsylvania Great Outdoors region by going to VisitPAGO.com or calling (814) 849-5197.