A whole group of adults putting on witch hats and taking their paddleboards to the lake? Yes. This is an excellent use of October.
Witch Paddle returns to Chatfield State Park in Littleton on Saturday, October 17, 2026, with a group launch scheduled for 9 a.m. And if your preferred relationship with a chilly lake is admiring it from dry land, spectators are welcome.
I already joined the coven at Quail Lake in Colorado Springs earlier this month. The photos here, including the featured image, are from that October 3 outing with my friends. Chatfield is a separate upcoming event, but clearly Colorado has found an appropriate use for all these witch hats.
When and where is the Chatfield Witch Paddle?
According to the organizer’s event schedule, the sixth annual Witch Paddle meets at Chatfield State Park Swim Beach in Littleton. All times below are local Mountain time:
- 7 a.m.: Registration and vendors open.
- 9 a.m.: Group paddle launches.
- 11:30 a.m.: Costume contests.
- 1 p.m.: Event ends.
Paddleboards, kayaks and canoes are welcome. The organizer encourages costumes and board decorations, so there is plenty of room to commit to the bit.
There’s a waitlist for paddlers, but you can still watch
As of October 14, the official registration link leads to a waiting list. Check the current RunSignup waitlist before making plans to paddle. Joining it is not a confirmed spot.
The organizer’s FAQ says every person participating on the water must register, including children riding on someone else’s board. Don’t assume you can arrive with a board and join the group.
Spectators do not need to register. You can watch from shore, enjoy the costumes and visit the vendors. Chatfield’s vehicle-entry requirements still apply, so plan for the appropriate park pass or entry fee.
Honestly, watching a coven launch while keeping your socks dry sounds like a perfectly respectable Saturday plan.
Bring the witch hat and the actual paddling gear
If you already have a confirmed registration, bring your own equipment. The event does not supply boards, kayaks, paddles or life jackets as part of registration.
The event’s safety guidance calls for a properly fitting U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket, a whistle and clothing suited to changing October conditions. Wear your life jacket, bring dry clothes, and keep costumes clear of anything that interferes with paddling or getting back onto your board.
The organizer strongly recommends paddling experience and says this should not be your first paddleboarding outing. Check its latest instructions and weather updates before leaving home.
Want a closer look at what a Colorado witch paddle can look like? Our Quail Lake photos are right here, complete with the spiderweb tights.
