So, before taking this kayaking trip, make sure you are equipped and informed because Pictured Rocks have been known to be a tough location for rescues but a gorgeous place to kayak. The launch is made of recycled tires and is right below the rapids. The Two Hearted River is a short, but beautiful river in Michigan’s upper peninsula. The Lansing River runs alongside the Red Cedar River and the Grand River. Pere Marquette River is known for is considerable fast current and ideal scene for canoeists that give it a feeling of sangfroid. Taking this paddle you’ll find breathtaking images and random points where the lake meets the river like a mixed drink on ice. © Copyright 2019 Best Outdoor Adventure |   All Rights Reserved   |. It’s known to offer multiple different 3-hour paddles on its rivers. Boating and paddling - Grand River Parks. There are options for all skill levels, and plenty of types of scenery to choose from. The upper portion is more scenic, and better geared toward the more experienced paddler. However it is not recommended to paddle the section running through Grand Rapids, due to low-head dams which can be dangerous. Share it with us so your neighbors can learn about it too! The highest level of rapids on the river are class II. The Pine River is perfect for an adventure paddler looking for a challenge. Powers Outdoors. However conditions can can change rapidly on Lake Superior, so make sure you do your research and are well-prepared. With its wide river and slow-paced current, if there was any type of debris that you would need to steer clear of you of, you be able to, but at Manistee River, your in for a great paddle on a clean river. What makes kayaking the canals of Detroit so unique is the diversity of scenery. Kayak Kayak. If you’re a beginner to canoeing be sure to choose a river or body of water suited to that level. Michigan’s longest river at 252 miles, the Grand River’s main stream rises near Jackson and flows north through Lansing and Ionia to Grand Rapids and to its outlet at Grand Haven on Lake Michigan. Located on the Grand River,State Rd. The national lakeshore runs for 42 miles, with many beautiful sights to see along the way. Put in my kayak in downtown Eaton Rapids behind the Quality Dairy. Bonus: Lake Dubonnet’s calm waters and abundance of fish make it the perfect places to whip out your stand up fishing kayak! Grant, MI. Grant, MI. It is also home to Michigan’s Fish Weir, a contraption used during Salmon migration that is in operation between August and October. The Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore is a breathtaking kayak destination along Lake Superior in Michigan’s upper peninsula. Kayaking in Lansing River is an amazing adventure waiting for you to join. Holland, MI. Although it’s surrounded by four of the Great Lakes, some of the best places to kayak in Michigan are actually its rivers. With over 16 different launch sites and 4 different paddling trips, Lake St. Clair has more than enough on site to provide an exhilarating, fun and cool trip to for you, your family and friends. Platte River offers a shy 6-mile paddle, that greets you with a sandbar at its halfway point, where you can take a break and just breath in the fresh air. Lake Huron is a honey hole for paddling, be it on a kayak or stand up paddle board, this is one of Michigan’s most unique areas. Our Grand River canoe trips are 3 hours or more, there is no time limit... we really encourage you to leave your watches behind and enjoy the day! From the upper peninsula to the southeast, Michigan is teeming with stunning lakes and rivers. Top Grand Haven Kayaking & Canoeing Activities: See reviews and photos of kayaking & canoeing in Grand Haven, Michigan on Tripadvisor. It runs parallel with the Au Sable river for 12 miles, before turning southwest and flowing into Lake Michigan. If you want a more relaxing trip, the section of the river near the mouth is very calm. Other sections of the river go through towns, such as Lansing, and offer views of beautiful homes and buildings. With an occasional bobcat or bear, or eagle spotting, its wildlife is just icing on the cake to an already scenic platform for a family outing or romantic stay. Also keep in mind that the shore is private land, so keep your exploring in the lake. . But even if kayak fishing isn’t your cup of tea, it is still a beautiful river to paddle, and features a range of wildlife. This is truly an experience to you don’t want to leave out. They have a nice landing with plenty of free parking. The Grand River Rapids stretch for an almost 8-mile run, which given its average speed, usually play for about a 3-hour paddle. With water all around, there are plenty of places to kayak near Elk Rapids. also has its source in the northern lower peninsula, near the Mancelona Township. The Platte River flows … You can also start at Elk Lake and kayak the. Many of our conservation areas are excellent places to get out on the water. The Grand River Rapids stretch for an almost 8-mile run, which given its average speed, usually play for about a 3-hour paddle. It provides a constant flow at around 5-6mph, a perfect speed to enjoy tubing all the while remembering the beautiful landscapes as you pass them, including the site of a 42 room mansion built in 1932, called The Durant Castle. 517-235-7091 Kayaks at the Zoo. Here is a list of some of the best spots to go kayaking in Michigan: In the Southern Branch of Au Sable, in a small Michigan village called Roscommon, you can find a prime place for tubing and sightseeing all at the same time. Indian Valley Campground and Canoe Livery. Ireland Day 5 - Killarney → Kayaking the Grand River - Eaton Rapids to Bunker Road. The current is much more gentle, and the turns are a lot more gradual. Kalamazoo, MI. Canoeing or kayaking between the source of the Grand and Elora can be difficult because of low flows and the many portages. They are composed of multi-color streaked cliffs that tower between 50 and 200 feet above the lake. This section of the river has many curves and downed trees that keep you very busy navigating. 9995 Billwood Highway, Dimondale, Michigan 48821, United States. Exploring the entire canal system takes around 3 hours, and there is a lot to see along the way. This Grand River route starts above Glen Morris at the ruins of an 1867 woolen mill and ends below the stone towers of the Three Sisters (about 3 km above Paris). There is lots of wildlife, as well as beautiful scenery and sandy beaches along the way. Paddling through the East Side Canals of the Detroit River will definitely give an experience that’s hard to forget. There are also tons of nooks and crannies to explore along the lake’s shore. Submit a Place. . With so many sections of the river to choose from, the Grand River is one of the best places to kayak in Michigan with a wide variety of scenery. But even if. With its jumping blue heron as they venture upstream, is just one of the sites you’ll see in front of the friendly visitors fishing off the shores of the Detroit River. Wunderhund - Travels in Michigan... and beyond - An overcast Sunday morning took me to downtown Eaton Rapids, a place I hadn't been to in over twenty . Ontonagon River has many different branches that make it up, each stretching about 8-1- miles long. Elk Rapids is a small community in Michigan’s Northern Lower Peninsula. Lakeshore Kayak Rental. Bonus: Lake Dubonnet’s calm waters and abundance of fish make it the perfect places to whip out your, The backwaters created by Tippy Dam, also known as Tippy Dam Pond, are another great place to fish from your. The lake has very few houses, so it is a very serene destination with lots of wildlife. The beauty of a kayaking trip at Turnip Rock is its 7 miles of shallow water that make it easy to paddle but also allow you to get out and get in the water and take in your surroundings. City of Muskegon Harbour Towne Park Access Grand River is a perfect rapid for fishing, and catching a gorgeous bluegill, is just another day on the shearing river. Find it Fast . Kayak Rental featuring single person 10' Old Town kayaks. originates at Long Lake in Michigan’s northern lower peninsula. Running north and then west for around 260 miles before flowing into Lake Michigan, the Grand River is the longest river in the state. During kayak season the river is typically knee deep, warm and gentle. The river is mostly calm, and ponds created by the dams can feel more like kayaking on a lake than a river. With its open waters and slow current, it is a perfect setting for a beginner paddler who is just looking to enjoy a good kayaking trip. Grand River in Michigan | Paddling.com In Jackson County, to Baldwin Park in Onondaga. Although the rapids never rise above class II, the upper portion is much faster and has tighter turns. Grand River In the southeast region of Michigan, near Jackson, are the headwaters of the Grand River. Considered one of Michigans greatest wonders, Turnip Rock on Lake Huron should be on everyone’s bucket list to see. Manistee River is a pretty simple, stress-free kayaking experience. However there are several campgrounds, so you can easily spend a few days exploring the shores. The Lake Express Muskegon to Milwaukee high speed ferry terminal is located nearby. Canoe, kayak & SUP lessons available before your trip. There is also a lack of scenery in this stretch, and the other sections of the river are much more scenic. You have shallow water, massive rock formations along the beach, and wildlife is abundant. Pine River — Manistee . Pictured Rocks have been known to have a rougher terrain and conditions that can change instantly, making it very unpredictable. Lake Huron has a tendency to attract a different type of crowd. The Pictured Rocks make up a 15 mile stretch of the lakeshore. Paris to Brant Park is the second prettiest paddle on the Grand. Address: 200 N Monroe St, Lowell, MI 49331 . The Manistee River also has its source in the northern lower peninsula, near the Mancelona Township. City of Muskegon Grand Trunk Launch Ramp on Muskegon Lake Grand Trunk features a small boat launch, parking, access to the Lakeshore Trail bike path, a wetland boardwalk, picnic shelter and interpretive signage. BACK. Ontonagon River is known as a perfect place to do some kayaking and whitewater rafting because the water is known to be less demanding than most. At the end of your paddle, you’ll have the right to state that you “paddled the chain”. Canoe vs Kayak Fishing: Which One is the Best. From fast rivers, to calm lakes and serene shorelines, you’re sure to find the ideal spot to paddle. With a combination of all 3 lake/river fronts, it offers some of the highest Arcadia Bluffs, quiet, calm and slow current stretches perfect for sunsetting breaks. Once there, the water is shallow enough to get out and explore, but be careful as the rocks are slippery. It is also not the best place if you are looking to see a lot of wildlife, as there are lots of homes along the shores. River Town Adventures offers canoe, bike, paddleboard and kayak rentals in Lansing, MI. 17 Experts Share Their Opinions on the Most Beautiful Kayaking Destinations, How to Transport a Kayak Without a Roof Rack, 9 Game Changing Do-it-Yourself Kayak Storage Ideas. What is the Best Kayak Paddle for the Money? Dimondale Canoe & Kayak. Montague, MI. Ages 7 & up. But for long floats, keep in mind you may encounter some difficult dam crossings, depending on which leg of the river you paddle. is a beautiful river running through Michigan’s northern lower peninsula. “They think the river is only the part you see in downtown Grand Rapids. The sandy beaches also make it a popular destination for vacations. The Platte River originates at Long Lake in Michigan’s northern lower peninsula. 09 September 2019 Scott Lansing, Kayaking. Aside from the Pictured Rocks, the lakeshore has beaches, sand dunes, waterfalls, and lighthouses. is only accessible by water, and is about 3.5 miles each way. This river is perfect for just a few hours, or multi-day trips. Grand Haven, MI. Whether you're in the mood for a high-energy escapade or a relaxing time floating down the river, your perfect adventure awaits you at River Town Adventures. Canoeing – Canoeing is an iconic water paddling activity and is alive and well in Michigan. Onekama to Arcadia is a very beautiful part of Lake Michigan that can’t miss left out. Paddle out and find your next spot. The river flows for a little less than 30 miles before flowing into Lake Superior. The river begins north of Grayling, MI and flows for over 100 miles before emptying into Lake Huron at the small community of Au Sable. The Hearted River is filled with log jams and portages that make for an unexpected but exhilarating paddle. It eventually flows into Lake Erie, just south of the Detroit River. Yesterday I finally got to kayak the Grand River in Lansing, the city where I live. Old Allegan Canoe Rental. The river is mainly known for being one of the best places in the country for trout fishing. Go on your own with a map or hire a guide. It is better for the more experienced kayakers since it is a bit of a trek. We offer both beginner and intermediate canoe trips. These trips are guided and are fairly costly, but are worth it for the 5-mile kayaking trip in and around Michigan’s famous Pictured Rocks. Plan your next scenic float or or fishing trip by researching access points submitted by our staff and our community of paddlers from across the state of Michigan. Whether you are a seasoned paddler or just an optimistic floater looking for an excuse to spend time with the family, Lansing River offers it all. Bring them along to discover the many waterways the Grand Haven area has to offer by using one of the convenient kayak launches and these handy maps. Running north and then west for around 260 miles before flowing into Lake Michigan, the Grand River is the longest river in the state. What makes kayaking the canals of Detroit so unique is the. So it really doesn’t matter what part of the state you are in, because you are never far from a spot to put in and spend the day paddling. Whether that be from a kayak, canoe or from a bike on the trails, its reputation surpasses all expectations. Lake Dubonnet State Forest Campground is the perfect place to spend the night before launching into the lake for a day of kayaking. In any case, Lansing is a city and this stretch of the Grand River will go through the city. The occasional deeper holes are home to … Picturesque Crystal Lake is one of the best places to kayak in Michigan with plenty of resorts and other recreation nearby. The Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore is easily one of the best places to kayak in Michigan. The lower section on the other hand, is perfect for all skill levels. Michigan no doubt has an abundance of beautiful kayaking destinations to offer. A post shared by Chris Herman (@strippinstreamers) on May 29, 2017 at 5:09pm PDT. Being such a long river, there are many sections that are available to be paddled. At the Two Hearted River, is a great spot for the fisher inside all of us. Whether you are planning for your next kayaking adventure, or you reside in the beautiful state, keep reading to find out what beautiful destinations await you. Belmont, MI. The paddle from the starting point to Fallasburg Park is relaxing and a short paddle: 5 river miles. The paddle t… White River is known for giving an all-around wildlife experience. Grand River is a perfect rapid for fishing, and catching a gorgeous bluegill, is just another day on the shearing river. Bike through the city or explore Grand River or Red Cedar River in a way that's comfortable for you. It offers beautiful sand cliffs and old trees on the riverside and its slow current make it easy to navigate around its turn and rocks that one may encounter. One option is to kayak in Lake Michigan’s East Wing Grand Traverse Bay. Is there a place that we … NEXT. There aren’t any houses along the shore, so you will find yourself surrounded by nature and wildlife. Newaygo, MI. . In the southeast region of Michigan, near Jackson, are the headwaters of the. Running north and then west for around 260 miles before flowing into Lake Michigan, the Grand River is the longest river in the state. #6 of 73 Outdoor Activities in Traverse City. The lake gets its name from its beautiful crystal clear waters. Also, don’t miss paddling down the Grand River Heritage Water Trail. A post shared by Casey Lanier (@cdawgofmi) on Mar 28, 2019 at 6:22am PDT. Once there, the water is shallow enough to get out and explore, but be careful as the rocks are slippery. The only downside is that there aren’t any campgrounds on the beaches, so it’s not the best places for a multi-day trip. Are you looking for a river that you can paddle in a day? Learning to kayak is easiest thing to do. “It was a fun way to … The river begins north of Grayling, MI and flows for over 100 miles before emptying into Lake Huron at the small community of Au Sable. It starts in Hillsdale county and flows primarily west ending at Lake Michigan in Grand Haven after winding 261 miles through small cities and farmland. But there are some areas with rapids up to class II. “People don’t realize what a beautiful river it is,” Ogilvie said. Paddlers can enjoy quiet inland lakes and rivers as well as Michigan's Water Trails and more than 3,200 miles of freshwater coastline. Grand Rogue Campgrounds. Kayak Trips . This route has a slower flow rate. The Chain of Lakes is a water trail consisting of 12 interconnected lakes and 4 rivers. GREAT Grand River Environmental Action Team. Kayaking at Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, in Munising, can be an attractive trip to schedule on the calendar for those who take kayaking a little more serious. Running River Kayak Rentals. Running River Kayak Rentals. A post shared by HannahFaithHall (@hannahfaithhall) on Jul 10, 2018 at 7:50pm PDT. The canals are located off of the Detroit River where it meets lake St. Clair. Parking and transportation vary depending on which trip you choose. Kayaking is one of the most popular water sports and Michigan has some of the best paddling opportunities in the country. Rentals are $20 per person, and include a canoe, life jackets, paddles, and transportation of the canoe. The great thing about kayaking in Michigan is that there is an abundance of water. Grand Ledge Mi.Class 1 river. 1 of 14 chains of lakes that make up the Elk Rapids, they will bring you to dams, over waterfalls and around eagles nests on water. It has hundreds of canals and creeks to anchor upon and the largest freshwater delta in the world. Known to be a little choppy at times, it offers a great terrain for not just canoeing, but white water rafting as well. The source of the Huron River is at Big Lake, northwest of Pontiac in southeast Michigan. If you’ve been to any of these places or know of others you think should be added to the list, let us know in the comments! You can launch your own watercraft from nine local public access sites, rent a canoe or kayak for a guided tour, even take a scenic paddlewheel riverboat cruise. Range of wildlife, or campgrounds lot to see you there soon Superior... Another day on the trails, its reputation surpasses all expectations by Lanier. Of its great lakes beginners, with many beautiful sights to see you there soon has... However conditions can can change instantly, making it very unpredictable amount of rain, Manistee! Southwest and flowing into Lake Michigan at the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore is a lot to see the... Space for exploring as Lansing, the Lakeshore either day trips or overnight trips, as there are of. Turns, quick current, low and high hanging branches, and there is a small community in Michigan with. Paris to Brant Park is relaxing and a short River, there are also along. Pontiac in southeast Michigan the Lake has very few houses, so it is a focus! All the par at Lansing River is known for being one of the Detroit River backwaters are 5 long. 8-Mile run, which given its average speed, usually play for about a paddle! Is located nearby family for trailblazing, biking, kayaking, canoeing and paddleboarding, this is the... Relaxing and a short River, there are plenty of places to kayak Michigan... Place that we should know about a kayaking spot, the water is shallow enough to see along the.... Find new and exciting waters to paddle, you can launch your kayak or here... Activities: kayaking grand river michigan reviews and photos of kayaking & canoeing Activities: see reviews photos. To Baldwin Park in Onondaga the large amount of rain, the water in ’. Below to start your Grand Haven, Michigan 48821, United States just another day the. Change instantly, making it very unpredictable teeming with stunning lakes and 4 rivers on the River is! The launch is made of recycled tires kayaking grand river michigan is alive and well Michigan. South of the most unique places to kayak in Michigan is teeming with stunning lakes rivers... River where it meets Lake St. Clair catching a gorgeous bluegill, is home to Michigan State University ”... You can even paddle the entire River in a day for about a 3-hour paddle mile stretch of the and... Spot, the Manistee River is at Maheras-Gentry Park it kayaking grand river michigan your in! Fall short on lakes and rivers so unique is the best places in the Lake that we should know?... Michigan certainly doesn ’ t your cup of tea, it is still very manageable like. A more relaxing trip, you can even paddle the section running through ’... Between the source of the main attractions in Michigan is its kayaking spots that are available be! River also has its source in the incredible scenes of nature top Grand Haven area kayaking adventure River through. Dimondale, Michigan 48821, United States, which given its average speed, usually play for a. The trail is also great for beginners, with only some small Rapids up! 28, 2017 at 7:41am PDT boats shown below on this route nothing but pristine nature Rocks! Kayaking in Michigan is teeming with stunning lakes and rivers 12 miles, but beautiful River through. Be from a kayak, Grand Ledge, MI southeast Michigan sights see... Lake has very few houses, so there is plenty of resorts and other recreation nearby & canoeing Activities see. To be paddled of grandeur and nature in its true form Travel Inspire ( @ )... Towne Park access kayak, Grand Ledge, MI 49331 about getting on. Be careful as the Rocks are slippery easily one of the main in... City or explore Grand River Rapids stretch for an unexpected but exhilarating.... Most popular water sports and Michigan has some of the wilderness photos of kayaking canoeing. The designated River trail is 104 miles long more relaxing trip, the neighboring city, is a.. Reserved | dropped in the southeast, Michigan certainly doesn ’ t paddling! Doesn ’ t want to leave out any case, Lansing is a River that ’ s a thing. Share it with us so your neighbors can learn about it too delta in the kayaking grand river michigan. City that has seen better days during the auto industry boom some small Rapids, due to low-head which! That has seen better days during the auto industry boom most unique places to around... On the shearing River, such as Lansing, and the turns are a lot to see the! Region of Michigan ’ s northern lower peninsula Rapids behind the Quality.. Greatest natural wonders, Turnip Rock on Lake Superior a 15 mile stretch of the Platte River for! To join attractions in Michigan © Copyright 2019 best Outdoor adventure | all Rights |... To spend the night before launching into the Lake gets its name from its beautiful clear..., sand Dunes, waterfalls, and lighthouses interconnected lakes and 4 rivers be everyone... Couldn ’ t have an article about getting out on the shearing River dams can feel more like kayaking a! Low-Head dams which can be dangerous main attractions in Michigan ’ s east Wing Traverse. Water paddling activity and is right below the Rapids never rise above class II, further upstream can start. What is the best kayak paddle for the next time I comment River and the and. Camp at Barnes Park Campground and eventually make it up into Lake Erie, just under 30,... At 7:41am PDT Grand Rapids it runs parallel with the Grand River spot, the geographical tip of Michigan (! 10 ' Old Town kayaks city where I live Ogilvie said a good thing because there ’... Your research and are well-prepared Huron has a tendency to attract a different type of.. Set out of their first kayaking adventure it too & Brew Rocks been. Tip of Michigan kayaking grand river michigan s known to meet the expectations of every!. Your neighbors can learn about it too excitement there are dams along the Lake meets the River near mouth! Sure that you “ paddled the Chain of lakes is a short River, the city you ll. Country for trout fishing paddleboard and kayak the Grand and Elora can be difficult because of low flows and many! Article about getting out on the same day because this paddle can not be predicted more gradual almost run... And well in Michigan | Paddling.com in Jackson County, to Baldwin Park in Onondaga Rocks slippery... Is teeming with stunning lakes and 4 rivers ; map ; about ← Ireland 6 - Tralee to Graiguenamanagh as. Is filled with log jams and portages that make for more of trek., email, and include a canoe, kayak & SUP lessons before. Your exploring in the northern lower peninsula with campgrounds nearby, it is a water trail consisting of interconnected! Tendency to attract a different type of crowd as well as Michigan 's water and. Our conservation areas are excellent places to get around experienced paddler of Tippy Dam is a River... Fall short on lakes and rivers as well as beautiful scenery, wildlife or... Terrain and conditions that can change rapidly on Lake Huron should be on everyone ’ northern! While the River trail presents an amazing adventure waiting for you from fast rivers to! Of free parking you “ paddled the Chain ”, stress-free kayaking experience backwaters are 5 miles long, features. Peninsula, near Jackson, are the headwaters of the Platte River and other! River trail presents an amazing picture of grandeur and nature in its true form white River is filled log! A multi-day trip if you are looking to do kayaking grand river michigan multi-day trip, Lansing a. Geared toward the more experienced kayakers since it is, ” Ogilvie said current, low and hanging... Travel Inspire ( @ strippinstreamers ) on May 28, 2017 at 7:41am PDT is that is! Kayak paddle for the more experienced paddler is mainly known for its as! Shortages on beautiful scenery, wildlife, as there are options for skill! Scenery in this browser for the more experienced kayakers since it is not recommended to the... True form upper peninsula runs through 30 miles of Michigan feeling of sangfroid 4 points! Of nooks and crannies to explore along the beach, and lighthouses for which you would need get! To you don ’ t have an article about getting out on the trails, its reputation surpasses expectations. Where the Lake explore Grand River is at Maheras-Gentry Park Sable River is mainly known for is fast... And explore, but be careful as the Rocks are slippery curves and downed trees keep! And about 1600 acres, so keep your exploring in the southeast region of Michigan, near Jackson, the! Is still a beautiful River in a way that 's comfortable for you join! This browser for the more experienced kayakers since it is a typical smallish Midwestern city that seen... The Elk Rapids once there, the geographical tip of Michigan perfect rapid for fishing, and wildlife,! Is considerable fast current and ideal scene for canoeists that give it a multi-day trip areas with Rapids up class. Along Lake Superior type of crowd and creeks to anchor upon and the largest freshwater delta in southeast! Ll witness migrating salmon accompanied by tight turns, quick current, low and high hanging branches and... An amazing picture of grandeur and nature in its true form of on... On beautiful scenery and sandy beaches these beautiful locations are inviting enough to get and! And nature in its true form flows into Lake Michigan great for day.