Frequently Asked Questions

What is Clack Fest? The Upper Clackamas Whitewater Festival, is an annual event held on the Clackamas River. It’s a great time to get on the water, see old friends, meet new paddle partners, check out new gear from top outdoor companies, demo a boat you’ve always wanted to try, and compete in a variety of different race events.

When is Clack Fest? Clack Fest Starts Friday May 16th and goes to Sunday May 18th.

Where is Clack Fest? Clack Fest is at Carter Bridge 15 miles from Estacada, Oregon. For more info click here.

What are the rapids at Clack Fest? The rapids are rated class III/IV. Most races start at the Fish Creek with Fish Creek Rapid (III) right off the bat, next is Armstrong (III), then some class II surf waves through Lockaby, and finally into Carter Bridge/Carter Falls rapid (III/IV). Carter Bridge will have slalom gates hanging above the rapid. For more info check out American Whitewater. There is also more Class III above and below the race area as well as some easier class II further down stream.

Does it cost money to go to Clack Fest?  Clack Fest is free to come watch the races, wonder around the vendor village and listen to the live music. Entering the races does have a small fee.

What is the camping situation? There is camping right by the event site for more info click here.

Can I race or do I have to be a pro? Anyone can enter the races! Since the race is on class 3/4 rapids, we recommend having class 3 paddling skills so you don’t get in over your head.

What can I race? We have events for kayakers, paddle rafts, oar frame rafts, catarafts, inflatable kayaks, canoes, stand up paddle boards and packrafts. Check out the race schedule for more info.

Can I demo a boat? We will have tons of vendors offering demos so you can try tons of different boats out. If you need a specific raft for a race, we recommend reaching out to the vendor ahead of time so you can ensure they can bring it. Note that demos for races are a little harder to arrange, and even if you don’t get it for the race you still will be able to take it for a fun lap.

Are there lakes or easier sections to paddle? Absolutely! Moore Creek to Memaloose is a great class II section about 5 miles down stream of the event site. The North Fork Reservoir about 7 miles down stream (you pass it on the way up to the event) is a great spot to paddle on a calm lake. Some vendors will have lake boats for people to demo, but you will have to transport the boats on your own.

How is Clack Fest funded? Clack Fest is a non profit, run entirely off volunteers and funded by donations from amazing vendors and sponsors. We also raise money for the event by raffling off gear donated by brands and manufacturers.

What else is there to do at Clack Fest? Clack Fest isn’t just about races. We will have camping, live music, boat demos, rescue clinics, and more!

How can I help Clack Fest? First off tell your friends, spread the word and follow us on social media! Second we need tons of volunteers to make the event happen. Third you can donate here to support Clack Fest.