The Klondike Challenge originated in the 1970’s as a race on the AuSable River in Grayling, but the event was moved to Oscoda’s Van Etten Creek in 1996. The Klondike marks the “Season Kickoff” for the Michigan Canoe Racing season – Paddlers and race fans use the event to catch-up with race friends after a long winter offseason, and to get a sneak peek at the racers for the upcoming season (or to see who has been training during the winter!). Originally a race held in late January or February, it is now held annually in late winter or early spring. In recent years, the Klondike Challenge has become an AuSable River Canoe Marathon fundraising event, incorporating a 5K/10K Run/Walk into the weekend’s festivities.
