Bigfork Whitewater Festival 2025 – Whitefish

In its 51st year, the Bigfork Whitewater Festival is the oldest running whitewater race on our list. Located in Flathead Valley, not far from Whitefish Ski resort, this last mile of the Swan River is all class IV rapids! Nicknamed the “Wild Mile”, this segment of river flows through the town of Bigfork which has a nature trail following the river, giving spectators the perfect venue to watch from. Over the years, this event has even been part of professional circuits such as the Kayaking Pro Circuit and Western Whitewater Championship series.

Bigfork Whitewater Festival 2026 Event Schedule

Saturday:

Lower Slalom
Expert Slalom

Sunday:

Triathlon
Raft and Kayak Down River
Raft Head-to-head heats
Kayak Giant Slalom
Final Raft Head-to-head heats

Saturday & Sunday:
Vendor booths along Electric Avenue, Food Vendors in front of Brookside Yard