The NWT’s mighty Slave River is one of the world’s finest yet lesser-known whitewater paddling destinations. Traditionally held over the August long weekend in Fort Smith, Paddlefest has brought together paddlers of all skill levels to celebrate this world-class river and enjoy fun, competitions, and community spirit. While this festival does not take place every year, it remains one of the North’s most beloved summer celebrations. Outstanding paddling, fun summer celebrations, and awe-inspiring landscapes await you on the Slave River and in the welcoming community of Fort Smith.

For the latest updates on the festival, visit slaveriverpaddlefest.ca.

Over the years, Paddlefest has brought four days of fun and competition to the Slave River, featuring events for all ages and skill levels. From flatwater canoe races (tandem and voyageur) and whitewater kayak rodeos to stand-up paddleboard jousting and kids’ paddling games, the festival has celebrated every form of paddling.

In years past, the Smith’s Landing First Nation has proudly sponsored a voyageur canoe race, honouring the traditional skin boats that once carried people and supplies along the North’s waterways. Other crowd favourites have included the Beach Ball Race, where teams battle currents to push oversized beach balls to a target, and the rapid swim race, where competitors power through swirling eddies in a test of strength and spirit.

Of course, the most iconic event has been the International Pool Toy Race. Participants armed with inflatable flamingos, donuts, and even unicorns charge through the rapids in a wild, joyful dash toward the finish line.

Flatwater Friday has also offered a gentle start to the weekend with casual island picnics, canoe and kayak races, and thrilling slalom course runs.

Team canoe races, both tandem and eight-person, draw enthusiastic crowds, followed by impressive demonstrations of whitewater canoe surfing and rescue techniques.

Not a paddler? No problem. Paddlefest has been just as fun from the shoreline. Set along the stunning Mountain Portage Rapids, the festival site offers sandy beaches and shallow swimming spots that are perfect for relaxing, picnicking, or cheering from the sidelines.

Camping by the Slave River provides close-up access to the lake’s sandy beaches, popular with driftwood collectors, or to follow hiking trails along the scenic shoreline. Throughout the weekend, Parks Canada has hosted kid-friendly activities at the Third Beach, ensuring families have something to enjoy no matter their age.

Under the glow of the Midnight Sun, Paddlefest evenings have always been filled with energy and laughter. Saturday night has featured the Paddlefest Beach Party, a joyful gathering with music, limbo contests, hula dancing, and community fun.

Sunday night has been home to the Paddler Appreciation Dinner, complete with a community meal, silent auction, awards ceremony, and heartfelt celebration of the river and the people who love it.

Monday has typically closed the weekend with a peaceful, guided hike which will give you a chance to spot wildlife, take in the beauty of the land, and reflect on unforgettable memories.

Whether you’re coming for Paddlefest or just passing through, Fort Smith (Thebacha, meaning “Beside the Rapids” the Chipewyan language) is a warm and welcoming community of 2,500 residents nestled along the Slave River. It’s the gateway to Wood Buffalo National Park, home to the world’s largest free-roaming herd of wood bison which you might even see from the highway! The park is home to the largest Dark Sky Preserve in the world, where you can enjoy the wonders of the dark sky and nighttime environment. There, away from all artificial light, you can witness spectacular Aurora and take in some of the brightest stars in the night skies. In August, Wood Buffalo National Park invites members of the public to its annual Thebacha & Wood Buffalo Dark Sky Festival.

Must-see stops include the Northern Life Museum, where exhibits highlight First Nations, Métis, and Euro-Canadian heritage, and the Fort Smith Mission, a designated territorial historic park.

For a truly unique Northern experience, tee off at Pelican Rapids Golf Course, where your backdrop is the roar of the Slave River and the glow of the Midnight Sun.

Getting here is easy: Fort Smith is a day’s drive or a short flight from Yellowknife or Edmonton.

For even more reasons Fort Smith is a must-see destination: from wild bison to world-class rapids, discover five unforgettable experiences that make this riverside town your next northern adventure.

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