US NATIONALS 2025

US WHITEWATER RAFTING NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIPS will be held Sept 12, 13, and 14th, 2025 on the Pigeon Point Class III+ Run of the Trinity River in CA, and on surrounding US Forest Service lands. 100's of volunteers are needed, starting now, to mentor youth rafters as they prepare to host this once-in-a-lifetime event. Volunteers are also needed in person on the 9th-15th of September.  Free camping is available for registered volunteers. 

 US WHITEWATER RAFTING Nationals will be 4 events. They are:  Downriver, Head to Head, Slalom, and Sprint races on class I- III+ rapids. This race helps select who will be designated TEAMS USA for 2026. A Final race schedule will be released closer to the event  date so keep checking back. There is no onsite registration. Event starts Friday, at 7:00 AM Sept 12th.  All Teams must pre-register and space is limited. First teams committed and signed up, get to compete. 

Nationals requires significant financial resources from the construction and maintenance of slalom lines to awards, to providing camping, and shuttle services, the costs add up quickly.  Given the scope, it’s essential to offset these expenses. THUS ENTER The Nationals Wooden Ducky Regatta. For just $10.00 you can field a wooden duck assigned a number that links to your name. On race day, Sept 12 thru the 14th, 2025 the ducks are released into the river in heats of 10, where they float down a small rapid to the finish line! The first duck to cross the finish line advances to the next heat until just one remains and the lucky duck gets HALF OF THE MONEY RAISED!  YES HALF! Up to $125,000! (before taxes).

A word or few on the rules... As it stands now the World Rafting Federation and the International Rafting Federation are on the precipice of merging and rules will change for them as they marry. Additionally, USARC and USRA have different ideas about rules. Luckily both the IRF and the WRF have wiggle room in their rules to allow National selection events to set their own guidelines for running an event.  As things hash out between now and then these rules may change slightly, so keep checking back, all the way up to race day to make sure you stay current. But for now, these are the rules. Registration includes a calendar year affiliation with USARC for all raft team members that register for nationals.

The Pigeon Point Stretch of the Trinity River in California is an exhilarating Class III+ section that combines the thrill of whitewater rafting with the beauty of the US National Forest. The river’s swift, winding currents provide the perfect challenge for racers, as they navigate the twists and turns of the canyon. The stunning backdrop of towering trees, rugged cliffs, and clear, cool water creates an unforgettable experience. Nearby towns include Big Flat, Big Bar (3 minutes West), Del Loma (11 minutes West), Junction City (24 minutes East) Weaverville (29 minutes East),  Willow Creek (39 minutes West) Arcata (99 minutes West-on the Pacific Ocean) and Redding (78 minutes East). Closest Airports: Arcata, CA or Redding, CA

 The proximity to the Trinity Alps Wilderness makes Big Flat a hub for outdoor recreation with trails leading to scenic viewpoints, alpine lakes, and dense forests.  Big Flat enjoys a Mediterranean climate with mild, wet winters and hot, dry summers, with temperatures often exceeding 90°F (32°C), particularly in July and August. Big Flat is accessible primarily by car, via State Route 299 (winding and remote, with limited services along the way).  While it may not be a major hub of commerce or industry, its peaceful setting along the Trinity River, makes it an ideal location for US Nationals. 

Sotar is providing boats that very closely meet WRF standards for the slalom and RX events (and possibly downriver and sprint.) These boats are solid playboats that can handle anything from steep creeks to high  water! Great for technical boating.  The floor drain holes are massive so they're hard to swamp. These boats get up to top speed fast, are light and turn quickly. This will allow you to make quick last-minute moves. These rafts surf more like a kayak too. BONUS! All these boats will be for sale after nationals, or you can pre-order one after you register for the event on a first come first serve basis. 

The Redwood Rafters Whitewater Youth Rafting Team is a dynamic group of young athletes dedicated to the sport of whitewater raft racing. As hosts of the U.S. National Championships, they are honing their  organizational skills. Bringing together teams across the country for fierce competition takes energy and these kids are up to the task. Each of them is a chairperson of a committee to make Nationals happen. If you have the time to be a mentor to these young rafters by joining a committee please reach out. You don't have to be local and it takes very little time to help them reach their goals.