The Gunflint Trail Canoe Races return July 16, 2025.  Celebrate the Gunflint Trail and support our fire department. Enjoy an afternoon of races, raffles, good food, and fellowship. 

The annual Gunflint Trail Canoe Races returns Wednesday, July 16, 2025. This community gathering and fundraiser will begin at 4:00 p.m. at the Gunflint Lodge harbor on the south shore of Gunflint Lake. 

The underlying mission of the Races is to support the efforts of the Gunflint Trail Fire Department (GTFD) while bringing together residents and visitors to the Trail for an evening of the best in Northwoods-style fun. There’s something for everyone at the 2025 Gunflint Trail Canoe Races!

 Eighteen (18) Canoe Races begin at 6:00 pm for multiple ages and abilities, including children 13+ and adults 55+, and testing skills in a variety of canoe races, including doubles, singles, backward paddle, solo, and gunnel pumping. All are welcome to register onsite. Canoes and paddles are provided. Bring your own life jacket. 

The Trail Cup returns! A big hit for the past two years, this competition is among teams sponsored by resorts, outfitters, and other businesses along the Trail. Teams will compete for the honor of displaying the Trail Cup Paddle for one year, accompanied by “bragging rights.” 

A Food tent with delicious, well-priced Northwoods supper staples, prepared by the culinary team at Gunflint Lodge, will be available starting at 4:30 pm. Cash only. Raffle tickets will be available, and the winner will be announced for a newly designed Northstar Boreas Canoe. The Canoe will be on display at Poplar Haus before the Races. Before the Races, raffle tickets are available at numerous resorts along the Trail. The winner will be announced just after the fun-to-watch Gunnel Pumping Canoe Race. 

New this Year *** Live Auction! A live auction for a Paddle North XL Utility Raft with an electric pump. A Hungry Jack Lake Dinner Extravaganza, which will include a fabulous, six-course meal at the historic Swanson's Lodge, will also be offered as a live auction item." 

Thanks to Friends of The Gunflint Trail, a committee of volunteers from up and down the Trail who worked diligently to bring the Races back this year. The Canoe Races have successfully served the Gunflint Trail for more than 40 years.