parks
PHOTOS: Despite low flow, Slaughter Fest paddles forward with racing
By Austin Colbert Follow
acolbert@aspentimes.com at Aspen Times
· June 17, 2026
· 1 min read
Slaughter Fest, the annual raft and kayak race that features the Roaring Fork River’s Class IV Slaughterhouse Falls, returned to Aspen on Sunday.
With the river running lower than usual due to the low snowpack, the race began at Stein Park and ended at Slaughterhouse Falls. From there, racers ...
Key takeaway With the river running lower than usual due to the low snowpack, the race began at Stein Park and ended at Slaughterhouse Falls.
Why this matters in Aspen News
The successful staging of Slaughter Fest despite low river flow is a testament to the adaptability of Aspen's outdoor recreation community. By adjusting the race course to start at Stein Park, organizers ensured the event could proceed, albeit with modifications. This flexibility is crucial in a region where water levels can fluctuate significantly due to factors like snowpack. The fact that racers were tasked with running back to the start with their watercraft added a new layer of challenge to the competition, underscoring the physical demands of participating in Slaughter Fest. As the City of Aspen continues to promote its reputation as a hub for outdoor enthusiasts, events like Slaughter Fest play a vital role in showcasing the area's natural attractions and fostering a sense of community among residents and visitors alike. The event's emphasis on camaraderie over competition also reflects the values of the local outdoor recreation scene.
About this story
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Category: parks ·
Published: June 17, 2026 ·
Source: Aspen Times ·
Reading time: 1 min
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Frequently asked about this story
What is this story about? Slaughter Fest, the annual raft and kayak race that features the Roaring Fork River’s Class IV Slaughterhouse Falls, returned to Aspen on Sunday.
With the river running lower than usual due to the low snowpack, the race began at Stein Park and ended at Slaughterhouse Falls. From there, racers ...
When was this published? This article was first published on June 17, 2026 by Aspen Times and curated for Aspen News readers.
Who reported this story? This story was reported by Austin Colbert Follow
acolbert@aspentimes.com at Aspen Times. To learn more about how Aspen News selects and reviews stories, see our editorial standards .
Where can I find related coverage? See more parks coverage from Aspen News, or browse our daily briefing and topic hubs .
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