Bluegrass River Run In My Backyard Festival
Fort Boonesborough State Park 4375 Boonesboro Rd, Lexington, Kentucky 40475
The third annual Bluegrass River Run (BRR), isone of the largest paddling events in Kentucky. The event launches on May 11th from Fort Boonesborough State Park which is located at the start of Pool 9 of the Kentucky River, located just south of Lexington. The journey allows paddlers to take in the beauty of the towering palisade cliffs and the camaraderie of floating with people from all across the country.
Pool 9 of the Kentucky River runs placid and tranquil in the summer, with limited powerboat traffic and beautiful views, making the 6 mile “Picking and Grinning Paddle” a leisurely float trip for families and paddlers of all skill levels. For those folks who want a more fitness-focused or competitive endeavor, they can take on the 19 mile “Boonesborough to Valley View Challenge” or the 6 mile “Clay Ferry’s Run.” For those who can’t BYOB (Bring Your Own Boat, that is!), don’t fret, there will be plenty of canoes, kayaks, and SUPs for rent from livery partner’s Mike’s Hike and Bike, Endless Summer Paddle Company, and Asbury University Center for Adventure Leadership.
Paddlers approaching the finish line will be greeted by the tunes of musical headliner, Scott T. Smith and the Family, as well as the scrumptious food from Proud Mary’s BBQ.