Top 5: Kayaking Spots in Michigan

With two Great Lakes and countless streams and rivers weaving through, Michigan offers a wide variety of idyllic locales for kayaking.

Great Turtle Kayak Tour, Mackinac Island

Take a kayak tour through the calm waters of Mackinac’s marina and bay, or venture around the rock formations and rustic landscapes of Round Island, Bois Blanc Island, Mission Point and Arch Rock. Enjoy the scenery, island hopping and visiting the Round Island Lighthouse by kayak. Sunrise cruises are offered each morning, touring Arch Rock and the Rock Maze, with epic sunset excursions available each night through Devil’s Kitchen and the Grand Hotel.

Jordan Valley Outfitters, East Jordan

Located in Northern Michigan, Jordan Valley Outfitters offers family paddling, kayaking and canoeing. Traverse the scenic Jordan River and wild surrounds along an Eco-Tour. Single and group excursions are available all year-round, as kayaking the Jordan River Valley is accessible and picturesque in all seasons.

Sturgeon River Paddlesports, Wolverine

Located in downtown Wolverine, Mich., Sturgeon River Paddlesports offers a wide variety of recreational services. The Sturgeon River is the fastest moving river in the state’s lower peninsula, providing an exciting ride for kayaking, rafting, tubing and paddle boarding. Kayaking excursions range between two–four hours at an active pace.

Paddle Your Harbor, Petoskey

Take out a single or double kayak, paddleboard or pedal boat out on Lake Michigan with Paddle Your Harbor. The upscale water sport outfitter provides guests with the tools and guidance to explore the area’s wildlife and serene atmosphere.

Argo and Gallup Canoe Livery, Ann Arbor

Enjoy a nearly four-mile kayak adventure from Argo Canoe Livery to Gallup Park in Ann Arbor, Mich. Begin through the Argo Cascades, a group of small rapids, and push through to the calmer waters of the Huron River. Take in the natural beauty surrounding the river as hikers, bikers and wildlife trek alongside.