Photo by Stéphane Bernard on Unsplash.com
Kayaking Up North Is The Best!
Haven’t been in a kayak yet? You are missing a fabulous experience. Northern Michigan has so many varied settings for kayaking. River kayaking lets the current carry you through wooded settings. Our many inland lakes can provide anything from calm and serene to wild and rolling depending on the day.
And then there is kayaking on Lake Michigan. What an experience it is to quietly move across the water.
Kayaking is becoming extremely popular and with good reason. It is not complicated to learn, and is very affordable. Kayaks of varying styles and versatility help make the kayaking experience enjoyable. Each summer in Northern Michigan, more and more kayaks can be seen on tops of cars as they head to the waterfront.
The communities of Northern Michigan have embraced this sport. Harbor Springs, for example, has a kayaking launching dock at Josephine Ford Park. Kayak rentals are available that let families try the sport. A two-person kayak is perfect for exploring the beaches. Pack a picnic and head out on the water in a kayak!
In Petoskey, the Bear River Valley Whitewater Park has quickly become a premier destination in the Midwest for whitewater kayaking.
Every August, the Coastal Crawl swims take place from Zorn Park beach to Harbor Point and back and volunteers in kayaks patrol the route of the swimmers to alert boaters to their presence. It is a glorious scene to see the harbor lined with kayaks.
Walk the docks on Harbor Springs or Petoskey and you’ll see kayakers gliding along the water enjoying another perfect day in Northern Michigan.
Destinations Up North
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Activities & Attractions in Northern Michigan

Ride the Breezeway Scenic Highway Between Atwood & Boyne Falls
This 28-mile scenic highway running between Atwood and Boyne Falls known as the Breezeway draws visitors because it is gorgeous.

Young State Park Near Boyne City
Young State Park outside Boyne City is a ‘year round delight for campers, hikers, snow lovers, swimmers and nature lovers.

Sailing in Northern Michigan for Adults & Kids
Sailing is a special pastime that often brings friends together in Northern Michigan. And no wonder. The sailing here is wonderful.

Beaver Island Up North
Beaver Island is located 32 miles offshore of Charlevoix, Michigan and is the largest island in Lake Michigan.

The Grand Hotel on Mackinac Island
The majestic and historic Grand Hotel is one of the first sights visitors see as they head into the harbor on Mackinac Island.
Northern Michigan Arts Scene
West Michigan is home to numerous artists with so many different talents. Groovy music, vivid paintings, gorgeous photography, and more!

Sledding and Ice Skating in Northern Michigan
Get the sleds and the skates out, put on the cold weather clothes, and enjoy sledding and ice skating in Northern Michigan.

Fisherman’s Island State Park
Fisherman’s Island State Park has more than 2,600 acres and miles of gorgeous Lake Michigan beach and is located just south of Charlevoix.

Wilderness State Park on Lake Michigan
Wilderness State Park’s 2,582 acres of natural area and 4,492 acres of wilderness area make this a great place to explore all year ’round.

Ski Resorts in Northern Michigan
The many ski resorts in Northern Michigan have winter activities for the entire family including sledding, sleigh rides, tubing, and more.