Michigan, known as the Great Lake State, is a haven for a variety of diverse kayaking excursions. Beginners might opt to try an easy lazy river trip. If you are looking for a whitewater thrill, there are a number of rivers with class III to V action. The Michigan waters are also ideal for Kayak fishing. Whether you are in the Detroit area, or heading to the Upper Peninsula, kayaking is a sport enjoyed throughout the state.
Kayaking in the Upper Peninsula
One of the most scenic kayaking tours is the Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore in Munsing. Spend the day on the clear waters of Lake Superior paddling a 10 mile stretch as you view the colorful red and orange rock formations. While navigating this part of the shoreline you can explore caves and ride alongside the high multi-colored cliffs. If you have more time, schedule a three to seven day excursion. Play it safe and come equipped with a dry or wet suit. Storms can come up rapidly. Lake Superior, the world's largest fresh water lake has an average water temperature of 40 degrees.
Lake Huron and Michigan
Sea kayaking on Lake Huron offers an abundance of wildlife and wilderness. When combined with it's 30,000 islands, Huron has the longest shoreline of the Great Lakes. Kayakers can enter Duck Lake State Park in North Muskegon to kayak on Lake Michigan. Silver Lake State Park, a 3,000 acre state run park north of Muskegon is another location on the shore of Lake Michigan to enjoy the sport.
River Kayaking
If you are new to the sport, the gentle flowing Cedar River which runs through the town of Gladwin is a quiet place to kayak. Plan a two- to six-hour trip down the scenic, rather shallow river. Another popular place to enjoy the sport is the Huron-Manistee National Forest in the Lake County. Drop your kayak in the Pine River. Experienced kayakers might opt for the portion of the river that is known for having more rapids than other rivers in the Lower Peninsula. As whitewater paddling can be thrilling but intense, take precautions and don't go it alone.
The Class V Experience
The Black River in Goebic County has a section rated as Class IV to V+ by American Whitewater, the organization that developed the class rankings. The Carp River, which leads to Lake Superior, is classified as a IV to V. Another thrilling trip for experienced kayakers is the 6.5 mile Dead River in Marquette County. It may be one of the most challenging of the state's whitewater rivers.
Around the City
If you are in the Detroit Metropolitan area you need not travel far to drop your kayak in the water. Stony Creek Metropolitan Park has a 500 acre lake ideal for kayaking. Travel to Ann Arbor about one hour outside Detroit to kayak in the Huron River. Begin at Hudson Mills Metro Park and finish at Delhi Metro Park.
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