Pure Michigan - Michigan's Official Travel and Tourism Site

Paddlesports

In a solo kayak. In a river raft with our friends. In a romantic canoe for two. In Michigan, we're never more than six miles from an inland lake, a river or four of the Great Lakes. So let's pack up our gear and go. Because nothing is more cleansing than the waters of Pure Michigan.

Kayaking at Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore near Munising

Come for a day, weekend or week, and Michigan's natural wonders will amaze you. Sheer bluffs, grand dunes and old-growth forests reach for the sky along Lake Superior.

Photo courtesy of Midwest Living

Crooked Lake, Petoskey

From the many protected inland lakes to the Great Lakes, Michigan presents endless variety for the paddler. Michigan’s beautiful rivers and lakes attract canoe, kayak, rafting and tubing enthusiast from all over the world.

Photo courtesy of Ed Wargin

Kayaking, Ludington

For quiet escapes on the water, there are numerous Michigan parks where you can launch your canoe or kayak. Of the 120 major rivers in Michigan, 16 are designated "Natural Rivers" because of their ecological significance.

Photo courtesy of Ludington CVB

Canoeing on the Huron River

Of the 120 major rivers in Michigan 16 of the finest are designated 'Natural Rivers' to help preserve, protect and enhance them.

Photo courtesy of Thomas A. Schneider

Canoeing the Chippewa River, Mt. Pleasant

From fast paced casino games and slots at the largest casino in the Midwest to the quiet splendor of a canoe trip down the scenic Chippewa River, 15 championship golf courses to 110 different species of birds at Florence Maxwell Sanctuary, you’ll be WOWED in Mt. Pleasant.

Photo courtesy of Mount Pleasant Area CVB