PADDLE JAM MAY 23

DOWNWIND CHAMPIONSHIP AUGUST 28-29

TAHOE LAKE CROSSING SEPTEMBER 18-20

PADDLE JAM MAY 23 DOWNWIND CHAMPIONSHIP AUGUST 28-29 TAHOE LAKE CROSSING SEPTEMBER 18-20

Tahoe. Paddle. racing.

Three Races. One Lake. Your Line to Cross.

PADDLE JAM REGISTRATION →

Iconic Races, Pristine Waters, Unforgettable Challenge

At Tahoe Waterman, we celebrate the spirit of competition and community on Lake Tahoe’s stunning waters. Whether you're chasing personal records or just love paddling with a crew, our race series offers something for every level. Each event is open to the public—no pro status required.

Find Your Line on Lake Tahoe
Three Races. One Series. Built for Every Paddler.

Set on the deep blue waters of Lake Tahoe, the Tahoe Paddle Racing Series brings together paddlers of all levels to train, compete, and connect. With three distinct events—each offering its own distance, conditions, and challenge—you can choose your path: build experience, test your limits, or race at your highest level.

The Lake Crossing is presented by Tahoe Waterman—a paddling community built around a shared passion for paddle sports, health, and adventure. It’s a group that supports one another, celebrates the journey, and values the stories and experiences that come from time on the water.

Tahoe Paddle Jam

AUGUST 1, 2026

REGISTER TODAY

FORMAT: 3-Mile Heats | Up to 9 Miles Total

REGISTRATION & RACE FEE - includes a celebration meal from Waterman's Cafe 

  • $55 (Race day registration is $75)

Paddle Jam is a high-energy race and beachside celebration set on the pristine shores of North Lake Tahoe. This unique format challenges paddlers in 3-mile heats with time cut-offs—advance to 6 or 9 miles based on your pace and performance.

Designed for all levels, the event lets every paddler race their best distance, making it both competitive and inclusive. Off the water, enjoy a vibrant beach atmosphere with music, community, and classic Waterman experiences.

  • Paddle Jam is designed for paddlers of all levels, with a format that naturally matches each athlete to their ideal distance.

    Open to single-craft only: stand-up paddleboards (SUP), prone paddleboards, one-man outrigger canoes (OC1), and single surfskis.

    The event welcomes both newer paddlers and experienced racers. Each competitor progresses through 3-mile heats, continuing on to longer distances based on pace, making it both inclusive and performance-driven.

  • Paddle Jam is built around a progressive elimination format designed to challenge both strategy and endurance. The course consists of 3-mile heats paddling from Tahoe Waterman’s Landing to Rocky Point and back along the shoreline.

    Each heat has a pre-set time cut-off. To continue racing, paddlers must complete the 3-mile loop within the assigned time. Those who meet the standard advance to the next heat, with the opportunity to reach 6 or 9 total miles, depending on performance.

    Time cut-offs will be communicated prior to race day and are set by craft, gender, and heat —ensuring fair and competitive racing across all divisions.

    WHAT ATHLETES SHOULD KNOW

    This is not just a race—it’s a test of pacing, awareness, and decision-making.

    • Start smart: Going out too hard can cost you later in the heat.

    • Know your numbers: Be aware of your required pace to stay within cut-offs.

    • Drafting matters: Use positioning and group dynamics to conserve energy.

    • Stay present: Conditions, pacing, and competitors all influence your outcome.

    • Every heat counts: Each loop is a checkpoint—race with intention.

    Whether you're aiming to complete one heat or push all the way through, Paddle Jam rewards athletes who can balance speed, strategy, and endurance.

  • The race location and start are at Tahoe Waterman's Landing, Carnelian Bay, CA.

    There is free parking at the event site. Navigate to Tahoe Waterman's Landing, Carnelian Bay, CA, and park along the street in the neighborhood.

    • JUNIOR  18 and under

    • OPEN  19-49

    • MASTER 50-59

    • SENIOR MASTER 60-69 

    • LEGEND 70+

    • ADAPTIVE SINGLE AND DOUBLE CRAFT

      All divisions will be recognized. In categories with five or more participants, awards will be given to the top three finishers. In categories with four or fewer participants, only first place will receive an award.

  • LOCATION: Tahoe Waterman’s Landing, Carnelian Bay (Event Headquarters)

    SATURDAY, AUGUST 1, 2026 – RACE DAY

    7:00 AM – Venue Opens
    7:30 AM – Registration & Check-In
    9:15 AM – Mandatory Race Meeting
    9:30 AM – Elimination Heats Begin

    POST-RACE

    Awards Ceremony & Celebration Meal to follow the racing

    Afternoon Festivities (weather permitting):
    Grom Challenge, Free Outrigger Canoe Rides, and Community Awards

    Whether racing or spectating, enjoy a full day at the lake with activities for athletes, families, and friends.

Tahoe Downwind Championship

August 28-29, 2026

REGISTER TODAY

FORMAT: 9-Miles (15km) Downwind Course - 3-mile (5 km) short course

REGISTRATION & RACE FEE - includes a celebration meal from Waterman's Cafe

  • $55  Downwind Championship (Race day registration is $75)

  • $55 Short Course (Race day registration is $75)

  • Athletes can race both distances for a single $55 entry fee

The Lake Tahoe Downwind Championship is a premier alpine paddling event built around a thrilling 9-mile (15 km) downwind run along Tahoe’s West Shore—designed to harness powerful afternoon winds, long fetch, and fast-moving open-water energy. Paddlers glide across crystal-clear waters shaped by Sierra weather patterns and canyon-driven winds.

The downwind race will run on Friday afternoon or Saturday, depending on the best wind window, to ensure optimal conditions. Whether it’s firing or glassy, this is a bucket-list paddle on one of the iconic Tahoe Downwind run.

Complementing the main event, a 3-mile (5 km) short course race takes place Saturday morning at 9:00 AM, regardless of the downwind competition day, for SUP, prone paddleboards, and adaptive outrigger canoes (OC1, OC2), offering a high-energy race experience in more protected conditions.

  • The Downwind Championship welcomes all open-water paddle craft, including outrigger canoes (OC1, OC2), surfskis (SS1, SS2), stand-up paddleboards (SUP), and prone paddleboards. Due to the potential for strong winds and dynamic conditions, the 9-mile downwind course is recommended for experienced paddlers with solid open-water skills.

    The 3-mile short-course race is open to all experience levels and is designed for SUP, prone paddleboards, and adaptive paddlecraft, including outrigger canoes (OC1, OC2), offering an inclusive and accessible race experience.

  • DOWNWIND COURSE (9 miles | 15 km)
    This is Tahoe at its best—a true point-to-point downwind run launching from the West Shore near Blackwood Canyon and driving north to the finish at Waterman’s Landing in Carnelian Bay. Expect building afternoon winds, long fetch, and rolling energy that rewards timing, skill, and commitment.

    Athletes start on the water and race buoy-to-buoy, linking glides across open alpine swell. Designed for experienced paddlers, this course delivers fast lines, dynamic conditions, and an unforgettable downwind ride.

    SHORT COURSE (3 miles | 5 km)
    Held Saturday morning at 9:00 AM, the short course offers a high-energy race in more protected conditions near Waterman’s Landing. Open to SUP, prone paddleboards, and adaptive paddle craft—including outrigger canoes (OC1, OC2)—this course is accessible to all levels and built for speed, confidence, and community.

    We are proud to support adaptive athletes and create an inclusive race environment where all paddlers can compete, connect, and experience the power of Lake Tahoe.

  • Event check-in, registration, and finish line are hosted at Waterman’s Landing in Carnelian Bay. The downwind race begins on the West Shore near Blackwood Canyon and runs point-to-point along Tahoe’s shoreline, finishing at Waterman’s Landing.

    The Short Course on Saturday AM takes place at Tahoe Waterman’s Landing. There is free parking at the event site. Navigate to Tahoe Waterman's Landing, Carnelian Bay, CA, and park along the street in the neighborhood.

    Event check-in, registration, and finish line are hosted at Waterman’s Landing in Carnelian Bay. The downwind race begins on the West Shore near Blackwood Canyon and runs point-to-point along Tahoe’s shoreline, finishing at Waterman’s Landing.

    There is free parking at the event site. Navigate to Waterman's Landing in Carnelian Bay and along the streets in the neighborhood.  Parking is available at Kaspian Point/Blackwood Canyon on the West Shore and at the Blackwood Canyon entrance. All athletes are responsible for their shuttling to the start. There are no shuttles available for this event.

    Logistics for transportation are the participant's responsibility for this event. 

  • CATEGORIES

    • JUNIOR  18 and under

    • OPEN  19-49

    • MASTER 50-59

    • SENIOR MASTER 60-69 

    • LEGEND 70+

    • ADAPTIVE SINGLE AND DOUBLE CRAFT

  • RACE DAY(s) SCHEDULE 

    Primary race day: Saturday | Downwind may run Friday based on best wind conditions

    SATURDAY, AUGUST 29, 2026

    7:00 AM – Venue opens
    7:30 AM – Registration & check-in opens (Short Course)

    9:00 AM – Short Course race meeting (shoreline)
    9:15 AM – Short Course RACE START (3 miles)

    11:00 AM – Short Course awards & post-race meal

    DOWNWIND RACE FRIDAY OR SATURDAY, AUGUST 28 or 29, 2026

    11:30 AM – Registration & check-in opens (Downwind Course)
    Scheduled for the best wind window: Friday afternoon or Saturday afternoon

    1:45 PM – Mandatory race meeting (West Shore start location)
    2:00 PM – Downwind RACE START (Blackwood Canyon area)

    4:30 PM – Cut-off time (2.5 hours)
    4:30 PM – Awards ceremony & celebration meal at Waterman’s Landing

    Whether racing or spectating, Waterman’s Landing will host activities for athletes, families, and the community throughout the weekend. Lake Tahoe offers endless opportunities to explore, relax, and connect on and off the water.

    AWARDS & POST-RACE MEAL
    Awards will take place at the finish area following each race. A celebratory meal will be served post-race at Waterman’s Landing.

Tahoe Cup - Lake Crossing

September 18-20, 2026

REGISTER TODAY

FORMAT: 22-mile (35km) point-to-point course across Lake Tahoe

This is a legendary bucket list race. A 22-mile (35km) point-to-point open-water crossing of Lake Tahoe—cold, deep, and mentally demanding. You’ll launch into the “Alpine Caribbean,” surrounded by towering mountainous peaks, and commit to a line across one of the most iconic bodies of water in the world. It’s a true bucket-list effort, not about speed, more about resilience, execution, and finishing what you start.

REGISTRATION & RACE FEE - includes a celebration meal from Waterman's Cafe & race shirt

  • $145 for Single craft participant (SUP, prone, OC1, surfski, one-man row-shell & marathon canoe)

  • $240 for 2-Person Teams (OC2, double surfSki, 2x rowing shell & marathon canoe

  • $480 for 4-Person Team (rowing shell & marathon canoe)

  • $540 for 6-man Outrigger Crew

  • The Tahoe Cup - Lake Crossing invites most ocean and endurance paddle craft: SUP, prone, OC1/OC2/OC6, surfskis, and rowing shells & marathon Canoe (1x, 2x, 4x).  The course is suited and recommended for experienced paddlers. 

    Because of the length of the race, we apply a cutoff time of 6.5 hours to complete the 22-mile (35km) course. Racers must maintain an average speed of 3.5 miles per hour to complete the distance by the cut-off time.  All competitors remaining on the course after the cutoff time will be escorted to the finish venue at Waterman's Landing.

  • LAKE CROSSING (22 Miles - 35km)

    This is a true point-to-point crossing of Lake Tahoe, designed for paddlers committed to the process—whether you’re aiming to complete a bucket-list effort or show up ready to perform.

    The course starts on the South Shore and runs approximately 10 miles to Sugar Pine Point, where paddlers round a buoy before committing to the final 12-mile stretch heading north toward Carnelian Bay. This midway point is the closest you’ll be to shore during the crossing and serves as a designated bail-out option if needed.

    From there, the second half demands focus, pacing, and execution as you work your line across open water to the finish.

    The distance rewards preparation and smart strategy. With the right approach, it’s achievable—and a deeply rewarding way to experience Lake Tahoe.

  • The event venue and the finish line are at Waterman's Landing in Carnelian Bay.

    The Crossing starts at El Dorado Beach in South Tahoe and finishes atWaterman's Landing in Carnelian Bay. 

    Logistics for transportation are being finalized - information will be emailed to the participant as it becomes available. At this point, Athletes are responsible for their transportation.   

    OC6 crews are responsible for coordinating their own team and canoe transportation to the start and finish locations.

  • CATEGORIES

    • JUNIOR  18 and under

    • OPEN  19-49

    • MASTER 50-59

    • SENIOR MASTER 60-69 

    • LEGEND 70+

    • ADAPTIVE SINGLE, DOUBLE, AND 6-MAN OUTRIGGER

    • OPEN ONLY FOR 2'S, 4'S, AND 6-MAN OUTRIGGER 

  • Race Window: September 18–20, 2026
    The race will be held on the best weather day (Friday, Saturday, or Sunday). Final race day will be confirmed during race week.

    Locations:
    Start: El Dorado Beach, South Lake Tahoe
    Finish / Event HQ: Waterman’s Landing, Carnelian Bay

    Race Day Schedule

    5:00 AM – Venue opens at Waterman’s Landing (finish)
    5:30 AM – Recommended departure from North Tahoe to start
    6:00 AM – Venue opens at El Dorado Beach (start)
    6:00 AM – Athlete check-in at Waterman’s tent
    7:00 AM – Mandatory race briefing (all paddlers)

    7:15 AM – Start: SUP & Prone
    8:00 AM – Start: OC1, OC2, Surfskis, Rowing Shells, Marathon Canoe
    8:15 AM – Start: OC6

    1:45 PM – Course cutoff (6.5 hours / ~3.5 mph pace)

    2:30 PM – Awards ceremony & post-race meal at Waterman’s Landing

    Post-Race: Celebrate at the finish with food, community, and a lakefront atmosphere. Additional activities will be available for athletes and families throughout race weekend.

FAQS

  • All entries are final. Registrations are non-refundable and non-transferable.

    If a waitlist is in place and your spot can be filled, a transfer may be accommodated. If not, no refund will be issued.

    In the event of cancellation due to weather, fire, or other circumstances beyond our control, refunds will not be provided. A credit toward a future event will be issued instead.

  • Additional safety measures will be emailed to you upon registration if necessary for each event.

    Lake Tahoe is an alpine environment at an elevation of 6,200 feet. Conditions can change quickly, so athletes should practice sound mountain and open-water safety. Check the weather forecast in advance, including temperature and wind, and dress appropriately for cold-water exposure.

    All athletes are required to carry a cell phone (or approved tracking/communication device) while on the water.

    If an athlete requires assistance on the water, safety crews will transport them to the nearest accessible shoreline. From that point, athletes are responsible for their own transportation unless immediate medical care is necessary.

    In emergency situations, paddle craft may be left on the water and recovered after the race.

    For the Tahoe Cup - Lake Crossing course includes a designated midway exit at Sugar Pine Point (~mile 10). Paddlers who determine they cannot safely complete the crossing should use this point to come off the water with support from their personal race crew.

  • A community-driven organization rooted in paddle sports, wellness, and connection. From first strokes to high-performance racing, Tahoe Waterman brings people together through shared challenge, mutual support, and a deep respect for the water. Every event is built to inspire, include, and create lasting experiences on Lake Tahoe.

    Built around a shared passion for paddle sports, health, and adventure. Rooted in connection and progression, we support one another on and off the water, celebrate effort and achievement, and create meaningful experiences that extend beyond the race.

    Every event is built to inspire, include, and create lasting experiences on Lake Tahoe.

  • Need a race craft? We offer stand-up paddleboards (SUP), surfskis, one-man outrigger canoes (OC1), and prone paddleboards for race day. Reserve your equipment HERE.

    Paddle craft storage is available for the weekend. Space is limited—please reserve your spot during registration.

    Learn more at www.tahoewaterman.com

  • Watch the video HERE

    Because we don’t want to introduce destructive snails or mussels to Tahoe, and we don’t want to transport aquatic weeds that have invaded Lake Tahoe and several of its tributaries, simply Clean, Drain, and Dry our watercraft and gear every time we haul out after use, and properly dispose of any plants or debris we find. It’s easy to add to our regular habits, and it matters for more information.

  • CEDAR GLEN LODGE - ENTER PROMO CODE AT CHECKOUT: 

    CAMPING

Person paddling in a kayak on a clear blue lake with mountainous landscape in the background.

Coaching

Start training now

If you’re aiming to complete —or push for a fast result—having a clear plan makes all the difference.

Paddle Racing requires steady endurance, efficient technique, and smart pacing. With the right structure and a few key adjustments, you can line up confidently and be prepared to perform at your level.

We offer practical, affordable coaching to help you get there—whether your goal is to finish strong or race fast.

Custom training plans and clinics with Jay Wild are available: jay@tahoewaterman.com

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