Paddling enthusiasts from across the Midwest will gather in Yankton, S.D. for the fourth running of the Jake Jaunt, a canoe and kayak event that takes place on the Missouri River.

Participants gather at Riverside Park in Yankton, then paddle downriver to Clay County Park near Vermillion, S.D. They will cover about 25 miles of the Missouri National Recreational River (MNRR), among the nation’s most beautiful waterways. The National Park Service and the Friends of the MNRR are contributing to the event’s success. The South Dakota Canoe & Kayak Association is a sponsor for the Jake Jaunt.

In 2025, nearly 100 paddlers took part from at least eight states. The event costs $36 which includes a T-shirt, insurance and support for all paddlers. The Jake Jaunt was established as a tribute event to honor the late Jake Riter, a longtime kayak enthusiast who helped host many paddle sports events on the river over several years. He passed away in 2022.

Paddlers of any level of skill with any human-powered craft are encouraged to join the Jaunt. People can cover the distance at any pace they choose. The fastest paddlers finish in about 3 hours, but most end their day at Clay County in five to seven hours. The event begins with registration at 7 a.m. at Riverside Park. Paddlers get underway at 9 a.m.

A barbecue picnic-style feast is available for paddlers at the finish. The meal is not included in the cost; freewill donations are appreciated. Rides for paddlers who need to return to the start will be available.

You can join the Jaunt by emailing event organizer Jarett Bies at jbies0341@hotmail.com. Early registration is preferred, but you can sign up on the day of the event. Come to Riverside Park before 8 a.m. to join.

The event’s website has maps, details and past results. Find it at https://jbies0341.wordpress.com/.

You also can call or text Bies at 605-941-4940 for information.