Jake Jaunt
2026-07-18 07:00 - 17:00 (America/Chicago) | Riverside Park, 200 Levee St, Yankton, SD, 57078, United States
Kayak and Canoe Paddlers Invited to July 18 Jake Jaunt on the Missouri River in Yankton
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.

Kayak Clinic with MNRR
2026-07-19 09:00 - 12:00, 2026-07-22 09:00 - 12:00, 2026-07-26 09:00 - 12:00, 2026-08-02 09:00 - 12:00, 2026-08-05 09:00 - 12:00, 2026-08-09 09:00 - 12:00, 2026-08-16 09:00 - 12:00, 2026-08-19 09:00 - 12:00 and 3 more dates | Lake Yankton, 31323 Toe Rd, Yankton, SD, 57078, United States
The Missouri National Recreational River (MNRR) is offering FREE kayaking clinics this summer from 9 AM to 12 PM every other Wednesday beginning June 10th and every Sunday starting June 21st through September 2. The clinics will take place on Lake Yankton at the non-motorized boat launch near Chief White Crane State Recreation Area off Toe Road, near the “bubble”.
Kayaking is increasing in popularity and the National Park Service wants people to learn to paddle safely. The minimum age requirement to be in a kayak alone is 10 years old. Minimum age to attend is 5 and children ages 5-9 must be accompanied by an adult in a tandem kayak. No prior paddling experience is required. These clinics provide an introduction to kayaking for visitors to learn basic paddling skills and critical safety information. Fun activities on the water will follow the instruction!
Kayaks, equipment, and personal floatation devices (PFDs) are provided. Bring sunscreen, water, and clothes and shoes that can get wet.
Enrollment for the clinic is limited and reservations are required. To reserve a spot please call the MNRR office at (605) 665-0209 extension 21. First 12 that sign up will be accepted. Deadline for reservations is noon the day prior to the clinic date.

Freedom 250 Friday with MNRR
2026-07-24 09:00 - 12:00, 2026-07-31 09:00 - 12:00 | Dakota Territorial Capitol Building, Levee St., Yankton, South Dakota, 57078
Join park rangers from the Missouri National Recreational River on Friday mornings at the Dakota Territorial Capitol Building for “Freedom 250 Friday.” This is a come-and-go event were youth and folks of all ages can come and participate in games, crafts, trivia, and more to learn about the Missouri River, its history, wildlife, and more.
If you have questions about these programs, please call NPS/MNRR at (605)665-0209 x21.
