SMALLS TO THE WALLS, MAINE, USA, APRIL 2026
©Walker Knife
The woods outside of Rangeley, Maine, were abuzz on Saturday, April 18th, as hundreds of spectators flocked to the Smalls Falls Rest Area for the annual steep creek race, Smalls to the Wall. Established in 2012, the event is known for its picturesque setting and stacked waterfalls. Every April, weather permitting, kayakers from all over the Northeast gather for a day of community and competition to kick off the Maine whitewater season and the Maine Whitewater Championship series.
©Walker Knife
©Walker Knife
This year, the water level was perfect, and the weather was unseasonably warm, making for a great day of racing waterfalls. The field was deep with veteran paddlers experienced on the course.
The usual suspects were present to lay down competitive times, including Avery Dicentes, Chris Sawyer, and Riley Adams, but ultimately Miles Puleio took gold for the second year in a row, putting the other competitors in his rearview and beating second place by over one second. Stephen Ligtenberg took silver, with Cory Thibodeau rounding out the podium.
« This year, the water level was perfect, and the weather was unseasonably warm, making for a great day of racing waterfalls »
Everyone had a great time gathering and spending time in this special spot for yet another edition of the race. Up next are the Maine Whitewater Championship Penobscot Race on August 1st, 2026, and the Kennebec Race on August 8th, 2026.
Words: Alex (Lee) Horne | Photography: Walker Knife
