Adventure Awaits

Fun on the Water

Northern Michigan is surrounded by some of the clearest lakes and rivers in the Midwest, and there's no shortage of ways to get out on them. From lazy river floats and sunset ferry rides to wake surfing and paddleboarding on Lake Charlevoix, the water is waiting.

girl wakesurfing on deer lake

Get Out There

  • Bear River Canoe Livery

    Petoskey

    A northern Michigan institution since 1977, Bear River Canoe Livery offers canoe, kayak, and paddleboard rentals on the Bear River. Trip lengths of one, two, and four hours mean you can tailor it to your day. Beavers, turtles, and ducks are regular company along the way.

  • Legacy Watersports

    Lake Charlevoix | Walloon | Torch Lake

    Legacy is a local boat rental and marina operation, dockside on Walloon Lake, Lake Charlevoix, and Torch Lake. Pontoons, tritoons, and wake surf boats are available across all three locations, along with paddleboard and gear rentals, a full-service gas dock, and a pro shop in the Village of Walloon Lake.

  • Jordan Valley Outfitters

    East Jordan

    Canoe, kayak, raft, tube, and SUP rentals available with trip options ranging from a relaxed 1-hour novice paddle to a challenging 3-hour run through narrow passages, tight corners, and overhanging trees. Guided winter rafting trips run December through March for those who want to experience the river in a whole different light.

  • Big Bear Adventures

    Indian River

    If you want a river with a little more excitement, Big Bear Adventures runs raft, kayak, and tube trips down the Sturgeon River — the fastest river in the Lower Peninsula. It's a genuine adventure, and one the whole family can take on together with the right equipment choice. Trip lengths range from 1.5 to 4+ hours.

Petoskey | Bay Harbor | Harbor Springs

Little Traverse Ferry Co.

The Little Traverse Bay Ferry connects Petoskey, Bay Harbor, and Harbor Springs with daily passenger ferry service from May through September — a 25-minute ride across Little Traverse Bay. Each port is within walking distance of its respective downtown. Bring your bike and ride one way, ferry the other. Sunset cruises and private charters are also available on the Harbor Princess for a more special evening on the water. Covered seating for 49, wheelchair accessible.

Ride The Ferry