West Michigan offers numerous great lakes and rivers for canoeing or kayaking, including Ludington State Park on Hamlin Lake, Pere Marquette River near Scottville, the Lakes and Rivers of Pentwater, Hamlin Lake Area, Boardman River in Traverse City, and the Manistee River. The Manistee River is one of the best places to kayak near Traverse City, winding from Fife Lake through Mesick and eventually down to Manistee. This river is one of the best in Michigan for overnight paddling.
Traverse City and the Bay area offer something for every type of paddler, from the many rivers and lakes to even open water. Kayak rentals are available almost anywhere, and there are no shortage of ways to explore Traverse City’s landmark river, the Boardman. There are no shortage of ways to explore Traverse City’s landmark river, the Boardman, by bringing your own kayak, canoe, or paddleboard or choosing from Riverside Canoes on M-22 at the Platte River.
The Lower Boardman River system is accessible from Medalie Park at the South end of Boardman Lake, or Hull Park at the North end of Boardman Lake. The Crystal River located within Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore offers clear water and a sandy bottom. Enjoy a nice warm day out on the water in Traverse City, Michigan, with exciting activities like kayaking, canoeing, paddleboarding, jet skiing, and more.
Some of the best kayaking canoeing destinations near Traverse City include Bay Life Getaways, River Outfitters, Kayak, Bike Brew, Paddle TC, Ranch Rudolf, and Memories Traverse. Canoeing or kayaking, river fishing, and tubing trips down the Boardman River at Ranch Rudolf provide daily excursions and great fishing opportunities.
📹 The most intense river I’ve ever paddled.The Boardman River, Grand Traverse County Michigan
What are the three rivers that run through Three Rivers Michigan?
Welcome to Three Rivers!. We’re glad you’re here and you’ve found us! Three Rivers has a wonderful sense of community with extraordinary people and has a lot to offer. At the confluence of the St. Joseph, Portage and Rocky Rivers, we have many recreational opportunities including kayaking and fishing, as wellas scenic trails, parks and walkways.Three Rivers also has a diverse community home to a rich tapestry of townspeople and businesses alike, and our historic downtown is home to local eateries, shops and a new brewery.
The City of Three Rivers provides basic utility services (e.g., water and sewer), composting and yard waste disposal at public works (DPS), as well as park shelter reservations to its residents. To start utility services, please visit the City Finance Department in City Hall (333 W. Michigan Avenue) or call: 269-273-1075, ext 110.
Additional resources (links) are provided on our City Residents page.
What is the fastest river to kayak in Michigan?
ENJOY AN ADVENTURE DOWN THE FAST AND FUN STURGEON RIVER!. With an average descent of 14 feet per mile, the Sturgeon River is thefastestriver in Michigan’s Lower Peninsula!
Not whitewater, but exciting and challenging with its quick and often tricky current, along with leaning trees, stumps, and logs (especially when navigating through numerous narrow passages and sharp turns!) The current does most of the work, but it is up to you and/or your partner(s) to maneuver your watercraft down the crystal clear, spring-fed stream, as it winds its way mostly through beautiful state forest. The average depth is 3-4 feet, however, there are deeper pools that can reach 5-8 feet, usually around the outside of bends. Plan on getting wet as many of our guests take an unplanned “refreshing” dunk! (approx. 80% tip-over rate for Kayaks on longer trips, 0% for Rafts). Various types of paddlers can enjoy this exhilarating adventure as long as close attention is paid to the typeof equipment used, as well as thesectionand/orlengthof the river trip. The shorter trips are less technical/easier and strongly recommended for Sturgeon River “first-timers”.
The river does most of the work as far as taking you downstream, but it’s up to you and your crew to work together and steer/navigate your Raft down the narrow passages & around obstacles. Rafts are spacious and promote TEAMWORK. All ages (young to the young at heart!) and all skill levels (beginner to advanced). Wonderful group or family activity!
What lake surrounds Traverse City?
Located along the coast of Lake Michigan, Traverse City is home to award winning wineries, restaurants, the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore and six historic lighthouses.
Traverse City is known as the “Cherry Capital of the World.” The area is also known for their natural attractions like freshwater beaches, vineyards, wineries and the proximity to Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore.
The National Cherry Festival is June 29 – July 6, 2024! More than 500,000 people flock to Traverse City for the festival every year!
Can you kayak the Manistee River?
Considered Michigan’s finest multi-day paddle and camp river, the Big Manistee River is a great choice for the kayak trip of your dreams. Its gorgeous river valley, forested riverscape, smiling waters, great swimming and excellent fishing attracts kayak-campers from across the Midwest. Rest assured, we have the kayak that is size and experience appropriate for your Manistee River adventure.
Beginning Kayakers Welcome Here. Never been in a kayak? Relax! With a low center of gravity and double bladed paddle, a kayak is easy to master. Our staff of experienced paddlers can quickly teach you what you need to know to go out and kayak with confidence and control. Join the thousands of guests who learn from us every year. You’ll be planning your next trip before the first one is even over.
Please review our Paddlecraft Guidelines and Policies.
Can you kayak on Lake Charlevoix?
Ferry Beach has a UA launch available on Lake Charlevoix.
Do you need a permit to kayak in Michigan?
The state of Michigan does not require a license to operate a paddle-propelled kayak, nor do you need to register your vessel, but you do need a U.S. Coast Guard-approved PFD.
Kayaking in Michigan offers a refreshing fusion of natural beauty and aquatic exploration. The Great Lakes State boasts an impressive array of paddling destinations catering to novice and experienced kayakers alike. You can traverse the serene waters of inland lakes surrounded by lush forests or delve into the gentle currents of waterways like the Au Sable River.
Michigan’s waters beckon in all seasons. Glide through crisp autumnal waters or witness the enchanting spectacle of kayaking amidst frozen landscapes in winter. Beyond the physical engagement, kayaking in this state nurtures a deep connection to natural heritage — it is a mindful endeavor that offers a chance to unplug and find solace in the rhythmic stroke of the paddle. Whether you are looking for tranquility, adventure or communion with nature, kayaking in Michigan presents a tapestry of experiences.
Where to Go Kayaking in Michigan. With plenty of free-flowing rivers and over3,000 miles of freshwater shoreline, Michigan has the best kayaking. Paddlers can explore vast waters with dramatic shorelines, breathtaking sunsets and even a few shipwrecks. The State’s commitment to conservation ensures that you will see unspoiled waterways and plenty of fauna and flora. From clean water to beautiful scenery, here are some of the best spots to bring your kayak to:
How long does it take to kayak the Platte River in Michigan?
From the Platte River Picnic Area water access, you can float a one-hour loop to just above Loon Lake and then carry your tube for a 10-minute walk back to your car.
If you want the full paddling experience, a 2-and a half-hour plus float will take you all the way from the picnic area water access to Lake Michigan. Put in along the ramp and drift down the pristine river, through Loon Lake (you’ll have to paddle across the lake), past the fish weir and El Dorado, through beautiful sand dunes, all the way to the mouth of the Platte River. You will need to shuttle your car to the parking lot at Platte Point at the end of Lake Michigan Road.
You can also put in at the fish weir just below Loon Lake for a 2-hour floatto the mouth of the Platte. In this case, you will have to carry your tube about 1/4 mile from the road to the river along a gravel road to the fish weir and shuttle your car to the parking lot at Platte Point at the end of Lake Michigan Road.
Offering a nice, easy, 1-mile float to Lake Michigan, a parking lot, and toilet, El Doradois another popular put-in for tubers. You will have to shuttle your car to the parking lot at Platte Point at the end of Lake Michigan Road.
Can you kayak the Red Cedar River in Michigan?
Interested in canoeing, kayaking, and improving paddling opportunities in Mid-Michigan? The Red Cedar River is a tremendous resource for outdoor enthusiasts throughout Mid-Michigan. It provides numerous opportunities for recreation, education and nature observation.
Can you kayak the Pigeon river in Michigan?
Skiera roads ends at the Pigeon River. There is parking and this area is used for access by canoes and kayaks.
What river runs through Traverse City Michigan?
Traverse City’s development as an economic hub for northern Michigan was largely centered around the Boardman River. Historically, the river has served as an artery for the transportation of people, timber and other goods.
Is the Flint River safe to kayak?
Canoeing or kayaking the Flint River is not recommended much upstream of the Joe Kurz WMA. Upstream of the confluence of the Flint River with Line Creek, both streams have braided channels through swampy bottomlands that are slow-going under most conditions and unsafe in high flows.
📹 Traverse City, MI experience the Boardman River
My family goes to Traverse City, MI every year, and this year we kayaked the Boardman River. This section was south of …
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