IMPORTANT UPDATE: Blazing Paddles Paddlefest Paddlers, we need your help to ensure a smooth process for check-in and boat drop-off this morning at Nautica Waterfront District!

Please review the below images to familiarize yourself with the two entrances to the Nautica parking lot
- one at Main Ave. & Sycamore St. (map link)
- one at Elm St. & Winslow Ave. (map link)
To ensure the safety of paddlers and the general public, Blazing Paddles Paddlefest paddlers may not proceed down Main Ave. past the parking lot entrance at Main Ave. & Sycamore St. to the cul-de-sac. Parking lot staff will be on-site to guide you. Please be patient and understanding on this essential aspect of this morning’s Blazing Paddles Paddlefest. Doing so will ensure a fun, safe, and relaxing day for you and your fellow paddlers!
This morning’s process
- park your car (parking is $3)
- walk to the check-in tent at “The Pad”
- walk to the Great Lakes Watersports put-in to complete their on-line check-in and their waiver. Their waiver completion is an essential step and MUST be completed. Great Lakes Watersports staff will be ready to assist you.
- visit the Lady Caroline for their Contintal breakfast (a la carte menu).
- ready your boat/board for your put in
- transport your boat/board to the paddler staging area on the pad (we will have volunteers available to assist you!)
- Please do not approach the Great Lakes Watersports put-in until you have EVERYTHING you need to put-in to the Cuyahoga River. This includes your PFD, paddles, hat, sunglasses, water, sunscreen, phone, keys.) Doing this will prevent potential logjams at the river put-in.
Thank you for making our first year at the Nautica Waterfront District a fun, smooth, and successful one! Have a great paddle on the Cuyahoga River - we’ve been blessed with beautiful weather!

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