Alan's adventure with the Ohio River Way Challenge

The Ohio River receives its name from the Iroquois word, “O-Y-O,” meaning “the great river.” The river was also known by early European explorers as “La Belle Viviere” (the beautiful river).

Morning Departure - Portsmouth Ohio

The Ohio River Way is a designated, 308-mile National Water Trail following the borders of Ohio, Kentucky, and Indiana. The Ohio River Way is also a coalition that promotes, advocates, celebrates, and unites the robust resources of the communities along the river and the Central Ohio River region as a whole.

River Mile 356Snack while "locking through"

The Ohio River Way’s mission is to help people find adventure, inspire care for the land and water, and boost economies of vibrant Ohio River communities by building partnerships that promote safe, healthy outdoor recreation; education; & tourism.

 In 2026 we will again be accompanied by a 55 foot houseboat AKA "Restore Lab".  It will be used for staging water quality testing, biodiversity sampling, communications, drone filming and staffed by students from various universities.

The Ohio River Way Challenge is an interdisciplinary expedition designed to educate, connect, and celebrate the history, culture, and ecology of the Ohio River and its river towns. Through paddling, storytelling, community engagement, and shared adventure, participants embark on a journey to be inspired and expand upon the important work being done to improve the Ohio River and its neighboring communities. The 2026 ORW Challenge will cover 480 river miles over 23 days.

The "Majestic" May 2025, Greenup KY

This year will be the third year I have been involved with the Challenge. In two short years the Challenge has evolved to be more than a fantastic adventure. It is an inspiring diverse inclusive collection of folks. The coalition is a testament to those that care about our shared resources and want to make a difference regarding our legacy to future generations.

I will join the Challenge in Louisville, KY for the last leg of the journey, which will be approximately 160 miles and last about a week. We will end in Evansville IN on June 1. 

Thank you for supporting my paddle on the 2026 Ohio River Way Challenge and the mission and work of the Ohio River Way! 

Alan Farmer