FAQ
Paddle Location
Chatfield State Park
Swim Beach
11500 N Roxborough Park Rd
Littleton, CO 80125
Map Coordinates:
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Registration
Is registration required, or can I just show up on the day of the event?
To paddle, registration is required. You can, however, show up as a spectator and enjoy all the festivities!
Do I need a State Park Pass?
Yes. You do need a state park pass. Day passes can be purchased at check-in for both participants and spectators.
Can I transfer or cancel my registration after I've signed up?
We can’t do refunds or cancellations but you can transfer your ticket.
1. Log into your account (link at the bottom of your registration confirmation)
2. Click the event
3. Click “View Registration”
4. In the bottom right corner next to “Registration Options” click the arrow
5. Click “Transfer”
6. Fill out and submit info
Are there any registration deadlines?
Yes! Registration will close as soon as we reach event capacity OR on August 13th.
Safety
Do I need SUP experience?
Due to the unpredictable nature of Colorado weather in October, it is strongly advised to have a decent amount of stand-up paddle-boarding experience under your belt.
Can I bring my child with me on my board?
The short answer is yes, if they are registered. The safe answer is…as long as you’re comfortable with them on your board and they can follow your instructions.
Due to the unpredictable nature of Colorado weather in October, it is strongly advised to have a decent amount of stand-up paddle-boarding experience under your belt with your child on your board.
Are pets allowed?
Yes – with stipulations. You must be a registered participant and they are only allowed through the south chute and on your board. They are not allowed on the Swim Beach (central area of the beach). So they cannot accompany you to registration, the vendor booths, or the costume contest. But they can go to the water with you through the south chute.
How do you know who is on and off the water?
Everyone participating in the Witch Paddle MUST have an ankle tag on and enter and exit the waterfront through one of the chutes. It’s like a 5k with the mats you walk over. We will have fencing up where there will only be certain entry and exit points to make sure we can account for every person within our event.
Event Info
What time should I arrive?
I recommend you get to Chatfield State Park around 7 am, grab a parking spot, and come up to grab your registration pack, then return to your car to grab your board and finalize any costume arrangements.
What do I need to bring?
- Your own SUP or rent one before the event through one of our partners.
- A warm change of clothes
- Wetsuit under your costume or layers
- Neoprene booties (these are epic especially since the sand is gravely at Chatfield)
- Come in costume or change on site
- Board Decorations if that’s your thing
- $ for food truck and vendors
Costume Contests
Costume Contest Rules
🎃 Witch Paddle Costume Contest Rules
Categories
To keep judging fair (and fun), costumes will be judged in the following categories:
1. Most Magical – classic witch energy, enchanting details, big impact
2. Most Creative – unexpected spins, clever concepts, or unusual materials
3. Best Group/Pair – coordinated costumes with friends, family, or pets
4. Spookiest Witch – eerie, gothic, or haunting vibes
5. Crowd Favorite – chosen by applause/cheer from the audience
Judging Criteria
Each costume will be scored 1–5 points in these areas:
-
Creativity: originality, cleverness, unique spin
-
Effort & Detail: clear thought and work put into the costume
-
Theme Fit: how well it embodies Witch Paddle’s spooky/fun spirit
-
Presentation: confidence, stage presence, and showing it off!
Contest Rules
-
Contest is open to all paddlers and spectators.
-
Registration closes at 11am at the DJ booth
-
Each participant may enter one category
-
Judges’ decisions are final
-
Be safe: no weapons, no fire, no costumes that restrict basic movement.
Prizes
-
Winners will be announced on stage at 12pm
-
One winner per category
-
Winners receive bragging rights, photos, and a prizes!
Board Decorating Contest Rules
🪄 Witch Paddle Board Decorating Contest Rules
How to Enter
-
All decorated boards must be checked in and photographed before launch (by 8:45am).
-
Photos will be taken near the launch chutes
-
Once photographed, boards are free to enter the chute
Judging Criteria
Each board will be judged (1–5 points per category):
-
Creativity: unique theme, clever details, unexpected elements
-
Craftsmanship: effort, quality, and durability of the decorations
-
Theme Fit: how well the design channels “witchy, spooky, magical” spirit
-
Overall Impact: immediate wow factor
Contest Rules
-
Decorations must be securely attached to your board (safety first—nothing loose that could litter the lake)
-
No fire, no sharp objects, no live animals
-
Keep it respectful: no offensive or inappropriate imagery
-
Boards will be judged based on photos taken pre-launch – judges’ decisions are final.
Prizes
-
Winners will be announced with the Costume Contest winners at 12pm at the DJ booth
-
3 winners (1st, 2nd, & 3rd)
Accomodations & Travel
Chatfield State Park Campground
You can sometimes still get full hookup sites at the beginning of October, but it depends on the weather.
Nearby Hotels
There are a handful of hotels within 10 minutes of Chatfield State Park.
Here’s a few: