Michigan Kayaking Spots Perfect for First-Timers
Jazmin Anderson
| 4 min read
During Michigan’s hot summers, nothing sounds like a better idea than being near the water. Fortunately, the Great Lakes State has thousands of rivers, lakes and ponds that provide refreshment in these warm months.
If you are an active person but find getting in your exercise during this time of year dreadful, a water sport like kayaking might be a good solution for you. However, as a beginner, it’s important to choose a location where you can learn safely.
Here is a list of some spots you might want to consider for your first kayaking experience.
Crystal River
Crystal River in Northern Michigan is the perfect kayaking spot for beginners and families. The river’s shallow depth, meandering curves and gentle current will allow you to ease into the sport.
True to its name, Crystal River has water as clear as glass with bass, sunfish and pike. The riverbanks are home to various animals, such as deer, rabbits and beavers.
Several guided tours and boat rentals are available in the area. Most trips will take about two to three hours to complete.
The Crystal River runs for 6.3 miles from Glen Lake through parts of Sleeping Bear National Lakeshore and empties into Lake Michigan. The river also flows through the village of Glen Arbor, where you can enjoy shopping and dining, making it an ideal spot for the end or beginning of your journey.
Au Sable River
Remaining north, the Au Sable River that flows through Grayling to Oscoda and Lake Huron is another great location for first-time kayakers. The lack of rocks and rapids, along with the river's gentle 3 to 5 mile per hour current, makes it easy to navigate for beginners.
Pine, birch and cedar forests surround the river, providing habitat for several species, including loons and bald eagles. You might be able to spot mink and blue heron among others while you’re on the water.
The Grayling Visitor Bureau and the Oscoda Area Convention and Visitors Bureau have an array of information on their websites to help with planning your trip.
Elk Lake
If you are interested in an even calmer environment to practice your kayaking skills in, Elk Lake is an ideal choice for you. Since it's an inland lake, you won't have to fight a current when getting the basics down.
The crystal-clear water and sandy shores of the lake make it a scenic location that beginners can enjoy while learning. You can rent kayaks in the village of Elk Rapids, which lies along the lake.
After you come back from the lake, you can visit one of the various shops, galleries and restaurants in Elk Rapids. The area also provides access to 300 miles of non-motorized trails for recreational activities.
Huron River
If you are looking for a beginner-friendly kayaking location in Southeast Michigan, the Huron River flowing through Ann Arbor might just be the spot for you.
The Ann Arbor portion of the trail is lined by parks and spots where you can easily stop to grab food. This section also includes three flat-water ponds that you can enjoy, and you might see rowers out on the water.
One of these ponds includes the Argo Cascades, which are a series of manmade drops and pools you can travel down on if you are up for a little excitement.
The parks along the river offer kayaking rentals and picnic areas.
Ann Arbor’s main business district is 0.5 to 1 mile away from the river. At this location, there are various dining, entertainment and shopping options for you to choose from after your trip.
Grand River
The Grand River, at 252 miles, is Michigan’s longest river. Its middle section, flowing through Greater Lansing, is a state-designated water trail, meaning it is reserved for small boats with launch points accessible to the public.
The trail goes through Grand River Park, which has 162 acres of hills, forests, grasslands, wetlands, and a small pond.
Safety reminders
You will spend hours in the sun on these routes, so make sure you wear clothing that shields your skin and apply sunscreen to any exposed areas.
Be sure to wear appropriate safety equipment, such as an inflatable vest, and check the weather before heading out on your route.
Image: Courtesy of Lindsay Knake
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