In the heart of the Tri-Lakes area, where the mountains frame the horizon and summer evenings stretch long and golden, something special has taken shape. It started, as many good things do, with a conversation between friends and business owners. By the end of that afternoon, an idea had been born. Not just an event, but a tradition in the making.

We call it the Smokin’ Showdown Palmer Paddle—a name that carries equal parts playfulness and pride. It is part friendly competition, part summer celebration, and entirely rooted in community spirit. What makes it powerful isn't just the activities—it is the shared purpose behind them.

This year, the businesses chose to direct proceeds to Awake Palmer Lake, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit rooted in Palmer Lake, Colorado. The organization’s mission struck a chord with everyone involved:

To salvage, restore, and recreate the natural majesty of the town’s namesake lake.
To prevent future significant water dissipation caused by drought and other natural challenges.
To enhance and update the surrounding recreation areas so future generations can experience the same beauty that defined the community today.

Smokin' Showdown Palmer Paddle

BBQ Cookoff, Paddle Board, Float & Enjoy the FUN!