Michigan Paddling

Rivers to Canoe or Kayak in Michigan

Michigan is a great place for water sports enthusiasts, especially for those who love to canoe or kayak. The state is home to numerous rivers, streams, and lakes that are perfect for paddling. Here are some of the best rivers to canoe or kayak in Michigan.

1. Au Sable River

The Au Sable River is one of the most beautiful and scenic rivers in Michigan. It is located in the northern part of the state and is known for its crystal-clear water, sandy beaches, and beautiful forests. The river is perfect for canoeing and kayaking, and it offers a variety of different paddling experiences for both beginners and experts.

2. Manistee River

The Manistee River is another popular river for canoeing and kayaking in Michigan. It is located in the western part of the state and is known for its diverse wildlife, beautiful scenery, and excellent fishing opportunities. The river has several different access points, and it is suitable for both day trips and overnight camping trips.

3. Pere Marquette River

The Pere Marquette River is a great river for those who are looking for a more challenging paddling experience. It is located in the western part of the state and is known for its fast currents, deep pools, and rocky rapids. The river is ideal for experienced paddlers, and it offers some of the best whitewater kayaking in Michigan.

4. Sturgeon River

The Sturgeon River is a popular river for both canoeing and kayaking in Michigan. It is located in the northern part of the state and is known for its crystal-clear water, beautiful scenery, and excellent fishing opportunities. The river is suitable for both beginners and experienced paddlers, and it offers a variety of different paddling experiences.

5. Kalamazoo River

The Kalamazoo River is a great river for those who are looking for a more leisurely paddling experience. It is located in the southwestern part of the state and is known for its calm waters, beautiful scenery, and excellent birdwatching opportunities. The river is suitable for both beginners and experienced paddlers, and it offers a peaceful and relaxing paddling experience.

These are just a few of the best rivers to canoe or kayak in Michigan. Whether you are looking for a challenging whitewater experience or a leisurely paddle down a scenic river, Michigan has something to offer for everyone.

6. Huron River

The Huron River is a popular river located in southeastern Michigan. It is known for its slow-moving waters, making it ideal for canoeing and kayaking. The river is surrounded by beautiful scenery and is home to a variety of wildlife, including turtles, frogs, and fish.

7. Rifle River

The Rifle River is located in northeastern Michigan and is known for its clear waters and sandy bottom. It is a great river for swimming, fishing, and paddling. The river is surrounded by beautiful forests and is home to a variety of wildlife, including eagles, ospreys, and beavers.

8. Pine River

The Pine River is a popular river for whitewater kayaking in Michigan. It is located in the northern part of the state and is known for its fast-moving waters and rocky rapids. The river is ideal for experienced paddlers and offers an exciting and challenging paddling experience.

9. Grand River

The Grand River is the longest river in Michigan, stretching over 260 miles from Jackson County to Lake Michigan. It is a great river for paddling, fishing, and wildlife watching. The river is home to a variety of fish, including smallmouth bass, walleye, and pike.

10. Jordan River

The Jordan River is a beautiful river located in northern Michigan. It is known for its crystal-clear water, sandy bottom, and beautiful scenery. The river is ideal for canoeing and kayaking and is surrounded by several parks and campgrounds.

Michigan is truly a paddling paradise, offering a variety of rivers and streams for every level of paddler. Whether you are an experienced kayaker or a beginner canoeist, there is a river in Michigan for you.

11. Escanaba River

The Escanaba River is located in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan and is known for its scenic beauty and excellent fishing opportunities. The river is ideal for paddling, with calm stretches and rapids suitable for experienced paddlers.

12. Muskegon River

The Muskegon River is a popular river for canoeing and kayaking in Western Michigan. It is known for its beautiful scenery and diverse wildlife, including bald eagles, ospreys, and beavers. The river is ideal for both day trips and overnight camping trips.

13. Black River

The Black River is located in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan and is known for its crystal-clear water and stunning waterfalls. The river is ideal for paddling, with calm stretches and rapids suitable for experienced paddlers. The river is also home to a variety of wildlife, including otters, beavers, and bald eagles.

14. Clinton River

The Clinton River is located in southeastern Michigan and is known for its slow-moving waters, making it ideal for canoeing and kayaking. The river is surrounded by beautiful scenery and is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, foxes, and muskrats.

15. Boardman River

The Boardman River is a beautiful river located in Northern Michigan. It is known for its clear water, sandy bottom, and beautiful scenery. The river is ideal for canoeing and kayaking and is surrounded by several parks and campgrounds.