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Historic whitewater racing energizes Salida and Arkansas River
Plan a Colorado getaway for FIBArk, combining whitewater races, paddling events, and riverfront festivities with outdoor recreation and an overnight-friendly summer schedule.
Event details
Salida’s Riverside Park becomes the center of the nation’s oldest whitewater festival each June, as kayak and raft competitions, the celebrated downriver race, and riverside entertainment fill four days beside the Arkansas River. Nearly a century of continuous racing gives the event a genuine sense of occasion. A festival schedule posted near the park entrance helps families plan around the day’s changing lineup of races.
Because the park sits directly beside the river and within walking distance of downtown, families can watch the downriver race, browse vendor booths, and grab lunch without a single drive between activities. Younger children often gravitate toward the calmer river-play areas while older kids watch the more technical competition.
Four days of racing and entertainment support a proper multi-night Stay in the Upper Arkansas Valley rather than a single busy afternoon. Pack water shoes and sun protection for riverside hours, and add Browns Canyon or the Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area to extend the trip. It is a historic river festival that still feels like a genuine community celebration rather than a staged spectacle. River flows can run cold and fast even in late June, so keep younger children well back from the main racing line.
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