Clackfest 2026 was the 40th annual Upper Clackamas Whitewater Festival. I took fifth in both Rondel races, and the weekend was full of demo boats, raft flips, backflips and shenanigans.
Video: The Upper Clackamas whitewater festival 2026, 40th annual, Clackfest 2026, By Jacob Linkhart on the SOLWYRX Paddlesports YouTube channel.
This video is sponsored by SOTAR and Go North Rafts.
Disclosure: SOLWYRX Paddle Gear sells SOTAR and Go North Rafts gear, and I earn money when you buy it here. SOTAR also sponsors me as an athlete. Go North Rafts is a sponsor and partner of SOLWYRX.
The racing
I raced my SOTAR Rondel and finished fifth in both races. The Rondel is short and playful, which makes it a fun (and honest) race boat: you have to keep it straight and keep the power on.
The festival
Clackfest brings the Northwest paddling community together every May, with races for kayaks, IKs, packrafts, oar boats, cats and SUPs (American Canoe Association). This year SOLWYRX had a booth in a prime spot, and despite a storm collapsing our canopy, both demo kayaks found a new home. There were also plenty of demo boats on the water, including Go North packrafts.
Go back through the years: 2023, 2024 and 2025. My plans for next year are in 2027 Festival Plans: Clackfest and Beyond.
Source: American Canoe Association, Clack Fest
Personal trip report: flows, wood and hazards change, and what worked for me that day isn't a rule for your boat or group. Check current conditions, scout, and boat within your training.
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Updated October 28, 2026 · By Jacob Linkhart, owner of SOLWYRX Paddle Gear · Spot a mistake? Email me and I'll fix it.
