MERCER COUNTY, PA — Whether racing for a share of nearly $8,000 in prize money or simply enjoying a day on the water, paddlers will once again have the chance to experience one of Mercer County’s signature outdoor destinations when the Lake to Lake Paddle Challenge returns this summer.
The fifth annual event will be held Saturday, Aug. 22, along the Shenango River Water Trail, offering two 15-mile divisions that begin at Kidd’s Mill Covered Bridge and finish at NorthStar Marina on Shenango River Lake. Participants can choose between the Sprint Challenge Competitive Class, featuring $7,900 in cash prizes, or the noncompetitive Adventure Challenge.
“We’re thrilled to welcome paddlers back for the fifth year and proud to highlight the Shenango River Water Trail as one of Mercer County’s signature outdoor assets,” VisitMercerCountyPA President and CEO Carmen Aiello said.
Both divisions follow a Class I section of the Shenango River Water Trail, making the event suitable for experienced racers as well as recreational paddlers looking for an outdoor challenge. A scheduled water release from Pymatuning Dam is planned to provide favorable paddling conditions.
After crossing the finish line at NorthStar Marina, participants and spectators can gather for an awards ceremony featuring food and refreshment vendors.
“The Lake to Lake Paddle Challenge truly reflects what makes Mercer County special—our welcoming community, our beautiful waterways, and the shared love for the outdoors that connects us,” VisitMercerCountyPA Vice President of Marketing Carissa Renninger said. “It’s an event that celebrates who we are and the experiences that make this place unforgettable.”
The event also gives visitors an opportunity to turn race day into a weekend getaway by exploring Mercer County’s parks, restaurants, shopping, lodging, and other outdoor recreation opportunities.
Standard registration begins Aug. 1 through Aug. 15. Day-of registration will also be offered from 8 to 10 a.m. for both divisions, with cash payment required. Advance registration is encouraged.
Event Details
- What: 5th Annual Lake to Lake Paddle Challenge
- When: Saturday, Aug. 22, 2026
- Where: Starts at Kidd’s Mill Covered Bridge and finishes at NorthStar Marina on Shenango River Lake, Mercer County, PA
- Cost/Tickets: Standard registration runs Aug. 1–15, and cash-only day-of registration will be offered from 8 to 10 a.m.
- More Info: https://sites.google.com/laketolakepaddle.com/home
Whether competing for prize money or paddling simply for the experience, participants will spend the day surrounded by the natural beauty of the Shenango River Water Trail while joining one of Mercer County’s premier outdoor recreation events.
Support the local news that supports Chester County. MyChesCo delivers reliable, fact-based reporting and essential community resources—free for everyone. If you value that, click here to become a patron today.