Places To Kayak In Michigan (10 Amazing Places)

Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore

This stunning shoreline on Lake Superior offers plenty of kayaking opportunities, from calm lagoons to challenging sea caves.

Michigan is an amazing place to kayak with a wide range of scenery, from the chilly lakes in the Upper Peninsula to the calm waters of the Grand River.

It certainly provides an experience that will leave any kayaker wanting more! The abundance of wildlife and wildlife viewing opportunities makes this a truly memorable trip for anyone.

Whether you’re looking for an adrenaline rush or taking a leisurely paddle, there’s something here for everyone.

Not to mention, all you need are some life vests, oars, and a few supplies like snacks and water—all easily found at local stores. Kayaking in Michigan is an unforgettable experience and should definitely be on everyone’s outdoor bucket list.

Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore

This beautiful area along Lake Michigan features towering sand dunes, crystal clear waters, and plenty of kayaking routes.

Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore is one of the most breathtaking places in the Midwest. Located along the shores of Lake Michigan, this national park is known for its stunning towering sand dunes that reach up to 450 feet tall.

Visitors can also explore miles of crystal clear waters, swimming, and fishing spots, and a wide variety of kayaking routes.

There are plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy throughout the years such as camping, hiking, bird watching, biking, and even cross-country skiing during winter months. Wildlife enthusiasts will be delighted with sightings of bald eagles, foxes, raccoons, and deer amongst other species.

With its pristine beauty and abundance of recreational activities, it’s no surprise that Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore has been voted as one of “America’s Most Beautiful Places” by Good Morning America.

Huron River

This scenic river stretches over 130 miles, with plenty of access points and calm stretches for kayaking.

The Huron River is one of the longest rivers in Michigan, and its pristine beauty has made it a beloved destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

Stretching over 130 miles, the river flows through several counties, with access points all along its path.

Offering plenty of calm and slow-moving stretches for kayaking, canoeing, and stand-up paddleboarding, it’s a dream for those who crave an easygoing adventure on the water.

In addition to its recreational uses, the Huron River is also home to numerous species of fish, birds, mammals and reptiles.

Many parts of the river have been preserved as part of Michigan’s wilderness areas and wildlife refuges.

From clear spring-fed waters to lazy meandering bends, paddling down this scenic river is sure to provide an unforgettable experience!

Tahquamenon Falls State Park

This park in the Upper Peninsula is home to one of Michigan’s most iconic waterfalls, as well as plenty of quiet lakes and rivers perfect for kayaking.

Tahquamenon Falls State Park is a nature lover’s paradise. Located in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan, this majestic park is home to some of the most spectacular waterfalls in the state.

The most iconic of these falls is the Tahquamenon Falls, which are comprised of two separate drops totalling over 50 feet. This impressive sight draws visitors from all across the Midwest and beyond every year.

The park also features beautiful glacial lakes with crystal-clear waters that are perfect for canoeing, kayaking, fishing, and swimming.

Visitors can enjoy hiking along one of the many trails that meander through the dense forest and take in stunning views of pristine woodland areas. There are also several rustic campgrounds available for those looking to stay overnight.

Aside from its natural beauty, Tahquamenon Falls State Park offers plenty of other activities including educational programs about local wildlife, opportunities to see rare birds such as bald eagles, a brewery with locally made beer, and an old-fashioned candy store filled with treats for all ages.

No matter which season you choose to visit this incredible place, you’ll never have a dull moment exploring all that it has to offer.

Au Sable River

This popular river in northern Michigan is known for its stunning scenery, great fishing, and miles of kayaking opportunities.

The Au Sable River is an iconic destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. It is a classic northern Michigan river, winding through the picturesque forests of the region.

Visitors can enjoy stunning scenery, pristine lakes, and miles of kayaking possibilities along this scenic river’s tranquil waters.

The Au Sable River is renowned for its world-class fly fishing opportunities, offering anglers a chance to catch giant rainbow trout and brown trout.

In addition, the entire length of the river features stunning rapids that provide some excitement while navigating by kayak or canoe. With many access points found throughout its course, visitors are able to explore vast swaths of this sparkling river while enjoying some of North America’s finest wilderness areas.

Manistee River

This river runs through the heart of Michigan’s Lower Peninsula, with plenty of access points and diverse kayaking routes.

The Manistee River is an iconic waterway in Michigan’s Lower Peninsula, stretching for over 200 miles and flowing through picturesque landscapes of forests, wetlands, and farmlands.

It is a paradise for kayakers with access points along its length offering diverse routes of varying difficulty.

The river passes through Manistee National Forest, boasting a variety of wildlife and providing stunning views around every bend.

In the summer months, the river’s shallow stretches are perfect for swimming and fishing while its deeper sections are great for whitewater rafting and challenging yourself with exhilarating rapids.

Whether you’re looking to take a leisurely float or an adrenaline-filled paddle trip, the Manistee River has something special to offer every outdoor enthusiast.

Lake St. Clair

This large lake between Michigan and Ontario is a popular spot for kayaking, with plenty of beaches and parks to explore.

Lake St. Clair is a 25-mile-long lake, situated between Michigan and Ontario, which is renowned for its stunning beauty and abundance of recreational activities. It is home to an array of beaches, parks, and marinas where kayakers, boaters, swimmers, and anglers can enjoy their time outdoors.

The lake’s waters are clean and clear, making it a favourite destination for scuba divers as well. In addition, numerous species of freshwater fish can be found here, including walleye and muskellunge popular trophies among avid fishermen.

There are plenty of camping opportunities around the lake too so travelers can make the most of their visit by staying in one of the many gorgeous natural settings that surround it.

Mackinac Island

This charming island in Lake Huron offers kayaking opportunities along its scenic shoreline, with stunning views of the Mackinac Bridge and surrounding areas.

Mackinac Island is a picturesque destination, located in the majestic Lake Huron in Michigan. It is famous for its breathtaking views of the Mackinac Bridge and stunning shoreline, which provide the perfect backdrop for kayaking.

The area around the island is home to a diverse array of wildlife, including loons, great blue herons, bald eagles, and white-tailed deer.

There are numerous hiking trails and limestone formations to explore, as well as historic lighthouses that offer unique glimpses into the area’s maritime past.

Visitors can also enjoy shopping at local boutiques and galleries or experience some of Mackinac Island’s delicious culinary offerings like fudge, smoked whitefish, and freshly caught Lake Huron trout.

With its breathtaking natural beauty and countless outdoor activities to choose from, Mackinac Island is an ideal getaway for nature lovers and adventurers alike.

Detroit River

This river connects Lake St. Clair to Lake Erie and is a great spot for urban kayaking with views of the Detroit skyline and Windsor, Ontario.

The Detroit River is known as an international border between Detroit, Michigan in the United States and Windsor, Ontario in Canada. Spanning 25 miles, it is one of the most important waterways in North America. Its largest tributary is the River Rouge, which runs through historic Southwest Detroit.

The Detroit River is a designated Canadian Heritage River and a Great Lakes Area of Concern under both U.S. and Canadian law.

It’s a great spot for urban kayaking with stunning views of both cities’ skylines. Along its shores, you can find miles of parks and biking trails, many historic lighthouses and military installations from the War of 1812, as well as some great spots for fishing or picnicking.

There are also several boat launch sites available to explore this beautiful river or take part in fun summertime activities like stand-up paddleboarding or sailing. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful kayak trip or an adventurous sightseeing mission, the Detroit River has something for everyone,

Keweenaw Peninsula

This rugged peninsula in the Upper Peninsula offers plenty of remote kayaking opportunities along its stunning shoreline, with plenty of wildlife and natural beauty to discover.