Directions to the race location at Rivergate Park, Cleveland, Ohio

Blazing Paddles Boat Drop-Off & Check-In at Merwin's Wharf (1785 Merwin Ave., Cleveland, OH 44113

Blazing Paddles_path from staging area to Merwin's Wharf ramp & dock

Blazing Paddles Safety Zone, Start Line & Finish Line on the Cuyahoga River

The Cleveland Rowing Foundation’s Western Reserve Rowing Association is holding a 500 meter sprint race just downriver from the Blazing Paddles put-in, with its finish line and recovery zone falling directly across from Merwin’s Wharf dock. Eight-person rowing shells will be approaching their finish line at race speed and will not have the ability to stop or veer away from anyone in their path. Paddlefest participants should keep their boats/boards close to the Merwin's Wharf side of the river as they head upriver, and as they return, so as to avoid injury to all participants [see highlighted area on map below). Once paddlefest participants pass under the gray RTA Bridge, you may take up the entire width of the Cuyahoga River.

Cuyahoga50 Recreation Hub at Rivergate Park

Blazing Paddles Parking for participants and volunteers

We have secured free parking for Blazing Paddles participants and volunteers at the Thunderbird site at 1970 Carter Rd. Cleveland OH 44113. Google map link here. The area is highlighted in yellow. All participants and volunteers will need to have a copy of the Blazing Paddles parking pass or a copy of their Blazing Paddles registration. Non-Blazing Paddles participants may park in the lot for $5.

Cleveland Rowing Foundation has secured a lot at Columbus Rd. & Center St. (highlighted in blue) that you can park in for $5.