Kayaking in Michigan: 15 Epic Paddle Adventures (With MAP)
If you’re anything like me, nothing clears your mind like a quiet paddle on the water. Whether it’s floating down a tree-lined river, skimming across a glassy inland lake, or gliding alongside the cliffs of Lake Superior, Michigan is absolutely made for kayaking.
Why Kayak in Michigan?
Over the years, I’ve explored quite a few paddling spots—some famous, some lesser-known—and today I’m sharing my personal favorites to help you plan your next adventure. These are perfect for families, beginners, and experienced paddlers alike, and I’m sharing insider tips and links to rentals or guides where needed.
Here are some reasons why kayaking in Michgan is such a perfect activity:
- Seasonal beauty: stunning summer greenery and autumn foliage translations make every paddle picturesque—for both SEO and Pinterest!
- Varied water styles: cruise peaceful rivers (like the Huron, Thornapple) or challenge yourself on Lake Huron or Lake Superior.
- Accessible outfitters: rentals, guided tours, and transparent kayaks make it easy and fun.
Read on to start planning your next Michigan kayak adventure and scroll to the bottom for a map!
Kayaking in Northern Michigan: Top Michigan Paddling Locations
AuSable River
This one’s a classic. The Au Sable River winds through the northern Lower Peninsula and eventually flows into Lake Huron. I love this route for its calm current, towering pines, and peaceful vibe. It’s especially great in fall.
Flowing almost 140 miles from Grayling to Oscoda, where where the AuSable meets Lake Huron, it’s one of Michigans most popular rivers for both tubing, kayaking an canoeing. That’s one reason why you’ll find it easy to locate kayak rentals for paddling fun. Family-friendly and organized, Penrod’s offers a wide variety of different trips to endure, from 2.5 hours to 5.5 hours.
Try This AuSable River Kayak Rental
Where: Penrod’s AuSable Canoe and Kayak
100 Maple St, Grayling, MI 49738
Boardman River
Traverse City isn’t just about cherries and wine—this river is a gem. The Boardman flows right into downtown, and you can do a short paddle that ends at The Filling Station (yes, pizza and beer included). I like this one when I’m short on time but still want some outdoor fun.
This kayaking trip is a bit more challenging, and helmets and life jackets are required and provided, and make sure to wear water-appropriate clothing due to the splashing and immersive water experience. Add this to the list if you are well-rounded and experienced with the ways of the paddle. This 90-minute adventure is a Michigan go-getter’s must-do and will be sure to have you raving about Michigan’s outdoor excitement.
Try This Board River Kayak Rental
Where: The River Outfitters
1910 W South Airport Rd, Traverse City, MI 49686
Crystal River
If you’re headed to Glen Arbor, don’t skip the Crystal River. It’s a gentle, winding river that actually runs through Sleeping Bear Dunes. You’ll pass through trees, reeds, and even a “kayak shoot” that’s a rite of passage.
💡 This is an awesome spot for beginners or families with younger kids. I always recommend booking a rental in advance during summer—it gets popular!
Located in Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, this water trail includes the fun and exciting part of Shooting the Tube, which is a culvert that transports your kayak from one side to the other. The river ends in downtown Glen Arbor, giving you a chance to explore one of Michigan’s great Lake Michigan beach towns with places to eat and shops to browse.
Try This Crystal River Kayak Rental
Where: Crystal River Outfitters Recreational District
6249 River Rd, Glen Arbor, MI 4963
Elk Lake – Elk Rapids
This inland route is one of Michigan’s most underrated. Elk Lake is a beautiful clear lake in Elk Rapids, with a sandy bottom and widely-known rapids. The water here is crystal clear (seriously—it looks tropical), and the paddle from Elk Lake through the Torch River into Lake Skegemog is serene and beautiful.
Bonus: The transparent kayak rentals make it even more fun!
PRO-TIP: You’ll want to spend some time exploring this beautiful part of northern Michigan. Elk Rapids is located on Grand Traverse Bay, just north east of Traverse City. It’s hub for outdoors enthusiasts, and you’ll also find great shopping and dining.
Try this Elk Lake Kayak Rental
Where: Clear Water Kayaks
6784 East Traverse Highway, Traverse City, MI 49684
Mackinac Island
This is a special one. If you’ve only seen Mackinac from a ferry, try seeing it from a kayak instead. Some tours take you around Arch Rock, the East Bluff, and even to nearby Round Island Lighthouse. The water is typically calm, and the views are absolutely magical.
Explore Lake Huron lighthouses, wildlife, the neighboring smaller islands of Mackinac, and more. Get your paddling game on, grab some Mackinac fudge, and head on down to the water trails of Great Turtles for a great island kayaking experience.
PRO-TIP: Be sure to plan to spend a couple of days exploring the Mackinac area, including historic Mackinaw City. You can use our guide to the best hotels in Mackinaw City and our guide to Lodging on Mackinac Island to find accommodations.
Try This mackinac Island kayak rental
Where: Great Turtles Kayak Tours
7395 Main St, Mackinac Island, MI 49757
Manistee River
Wide, meandering, and scenic—this river is perfect for a laid-back afternoon. You’ll pass forests, sandbanks, and maybe a bald eagle or two. I recommend this one in mid-September for amazing fall colors.
PRO-TIP: The charming city of Manistee is a fun spot to explore. You’ll find beautiful Lake Michigan beaches and a walkable downtown with good shopping and dining, too.
Try This manistee River Kayak Rental
Where: Manistee Adventures
231 W Parkdale Ave, Manistee, MI 49660
Platte River
This is hands-down one of my favorite kayak trips in Michigan. The Platte River winds through Sleeping Bear Dunes and ends with a wow moment—when the crystal-clear water flows right into Lake Michigan at Platte Point, neat the charming beach town of Frankfort. It’s absolutely stunning.
For a calm and easy paddle, stick to the Lower Platte. Want more of a thrill? Try the Upper Platte—it’s faster, with a few rapids and rocky turns that keep things exciting.
Trips usually take about 2–3 hours and include rentals, life jackets, and shuttle service. If you’re only doing one paddle this summer, make it this one.
Try This Platte River Kayak Rental
Where: Riverside Canoe Trips
5042 N Scenic Hwy, Honor, MI 49640
Upper Peninsula Kayaking Trips
Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore
This is bucket-list level. Kayaking along the cliffs of Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore is unlike anything else in Michigan. With crystal clear waters and unique cliff sides and caves on Lake Superior, the guided kayaking trips here are some of the best in the country. You’ll float beneath towering sandstone formations in turquoise water that looks like something out of the Caribbean.
⚠️ Only do this when the weather’s calm and book with a guide if you’re new to sea kayaking. Safety first!
Try This Pictured Rocks Kayak Rental
Where: Paddle Pictured Rocks
1348 Commercial St, Munising, MI 49862
PRO TIP: Be sure to read out complete guide to Pictured Rocks Kayak Trips for even more information on kayaking along Lake Superior.
Two Hearted River
Where: Two Hearted River State Forest Campground
Luce County, Michigan
If you’re looking for a peaceful, out-there kind of paddle, the Two Hearted River in the Upper Peninsula, is one of those places that sticks with you. It flows for about 23 miles before meeting Lake Superior, and it’s just as beautiful and remote as you’d imagine.
You’ll need to bring your own kayak for this one—there aren’t any rentals nearby—but that’s part of the adventure. I usually launch near the Mouth of the Two Hearted River Campground, which also makes a great spot to stay overnight or take a break.
The paddle itself is mostly calm and easy, with plenty of time to take in the views and watch for wildlife. It’s one of those rare places where you really feel unplugged. If you’re up for a more self-guided day on the water, this river is worth the effort.
Known from Ernest Hemingway’s popular short story “Big-Two Hearted River”, this is a Michigan “must-see-and-experience” river.
The river is mostly an easy paddle and gives you a chance to relax and isolate yourself within Michigan’s wonderful nature.
Isle Royale
If you’re up for a real backcountry adventure, kayaking around Isle Royale is an experience you won’t forget. Tucked away in the far reaches of Lake Superior, this remote island feels completely untouched—and that’s exactly what makes it so special.
This trip isn’t for beginners. The water can be unpredictable, and the routes are limited by the island’s rugged shoreline. But if you’ve got some paddling experience and a sense of adventure, the payoff is huge: quiet coves, wild shoreline, and the kind of peace that’s hard to come by these days.
You’ll need to plan ahead. Ferries to the island can transport personal kayaks for a fee, or you can look into rentals through Isle Royale Resort services. And yes—life jackets are a must.
This isn’t your typical paddle, but for the right kind of traveler, it’s one of the most rewarding in Michigan.
Kayaking in Michigan: Michigan’s Thumb Region
Turnip Rock in Port Austin, MI
Port Austin’s Turnip Rock is a must-see destination for kayakers and paddleboarders. With its clear waters and smooth shoreline, Lake Huron’s Saginaw Bay is a popular destination for those looking to experience the beauty of nature.
Port Austin Kayak and Bike Rentals offers kayaks for rent and several different water trails to explore, including Thumbnail Point, Turnip Rock, Sea Caves, Flat Rock, Broken Rocks, and more. These Michigan sights will remind you of the natural beauty our state is known for.
PRO-TIP: Plan to spend some time exploring both Port Austin and Caseville, both home to some of Michigan’s prettiest beaches. Port Austin has a beautifully manicured downtown harbor, and the resort town of Caseville is the home of the famous Caseville Cheeseburger Festival!
Try This Port Austin Kayak Rental
Where: Port Austin Kayak and Bike
119 E Spring St, Port Austin, MI 48467
Kayaking in Southeast Michigan
Detroit River
Yes—there’s kayaking in Detroit! This is a super cool way to experience the city skyline while also paddling past nature preserves and little hidden islands. If you’re local or visiting, check out the guided tours from Detroit River Sports.
Try This Detroit Kayak Rental
Where: Detroit River Sports
14601 Riverside Blvd, Detroit, MI 48215
Huron River – Ann arbor
This is one of my favorite low-key paddles. The Huron River has multiple put-ins near Ann Arbor and Dexter, and you can do anything from a 1-hour float to a full afternoon. Great for spotting turtles, herons, and peaceful forest views.
🎒 Rentals and shuttles available
🧒 Perfect for families and beginners
Try This huron River Kayak Rental
Where: Skip’s Huron River Canoe Livery
3902 E Delhi Rd, Ann Arbor, MI 48103
Lake St Clair
Lake St. Clair is another gem hidden not too far from Detroit that offers great Michigan scenery and beauty. Simple Adventures offers kayak rental service to tour the waters of Lake St Clair, ranging from 1-hour rentals to 8-hour rentals.
Kayaks, canoes, and more are available for taking around the lake and making a great water adventure on a hot summer day, or for viewing the colors of the changing trees around the lake during the fall time.
Try This Lake St. Clair Kayak Rental
Where: Simple Adventures
31300 Metropolitan Parkway, Harrison Township, MI 48326
Lansing River
Where: River Town Adventures
305 Riverfront Dr, Lansing, MI 48912
Located along the Lansing River Trail, River Town Adventures provides a great kayak rental service, offering different types of kayaks and canoes. The Lansing River is a great Michigan River to go kayaking in thanks to its beautiful immersive city and nature-made scenic views.
🗺️ Plan Your Trip
📍 Add this post to your Pinterest board
🧭 Save it for summer planning
📸 And don’t forget to take photos—Michigan’s shoreline looks even better from the water
🚣♀️ Kayaking Tips for Michigan
- Always check wind/water conditions—especially on the Great Lakes.
- Life jackets are required for all paddlers.
- Many rental places offer waterproof phone bags—worth it.
- Early morning paddles = calmer water and fewer crowds.
- Don’t forget bug spray in June/July!
Want More Ideas?
Check out my guides to:
➡️ Michigan’s Best Beaches
➡️ Upper Peninsula Hidden Gems
➡️ Best Places for Fall Color in Michigan
Got a favorite kayaking spot I missed?
I’d love to hear about it! Drop me a note or tag @mymichiganbeach on Instagram—I’m always adding new spots to my list.