Lake Nicol Paddle Fest Set For Next Week

TUSCALOOSA, Ala. — Tuscaloosa Water is partnering with Tuscaloosa Paddleboards and Mountain High Outfitters to host the Lake Nicol Paddle Fest on Saturday, July 18.

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The free event will offer participants a morning of paddling, friendly competition and outdoor recreation as part of National Lakes Appreciation Month.

The event is scheduled from 7:30 a.m. to noon at Lake Nicol and is open to paddlers of all experience levels. It will feature competitive races as well as noncompetitive floats for participants who simply want to enjoy time on the water.

The featured 3-mile paddle race begins at 8 a.m. and is open to both paddleboards and kayaks.

Participants will follow a marked course showcasing Lake Nicol's signature cliffs, wooded shoreline and open-water stretches before returning to the finish line.

Awards will be presented to the top finishers in each division.

For those not interested in racing, organizers will offer a 3-mile Fun Float beginning at 9:30 a.m. and a 1-mile Fun Float at 9:45 a.m.

The recreational paddles follow the same scenic course without the competitive element, allowing families, friends and casual paddlers to experience one of Tuscaloosa's most popular outdoor destinations at a relaxed pace.

Spectators will be able to watch the event from the Outer Cliffs Trail overlooking the lake.

Participation is free, but advance registration is required.

Organizers also will offer a limited number of complimentary paddleboard and kayak rentals for participants who do not have their own equipment.

Rentals can be reserved during the registration process while supplies last.

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