6. Paddle and Portage

The Buzz -- Amateurs and serious athletes test their physical mettle at this annual summertime event. Especially suited to Madison, given its adjacent lakes, the competition begins at Lake Mendota with a mile-plus canoe paddle. Following that, participants shoulder their vessels for a mile-plus trek across the isthmus to Lake Monona, where they paddle the final leg to Olin Park. At the finish line, awards are bestowed and refreshments are distributed for celebration. Various classes include contests for men, women, mixed, and adult-child teams. Third Saturday in July.