Boardman River Experience
The closest thing in Michigan that you can get to full whitewater river rapids.
BOARDMAN RIVER EXPERIENCE – Paddling Experience Recommended
Ride the Rapids on the Boardman River!
Get ready for an exciting paddling adventure on the Boardman River—open to paddlers for the first time in 100 years! This thrilling trip takes you through the historic Sabin Dam site, where you’ll navigate two light Class I-II rapids before easing into a peaceful paddle through a breathtaking cedar forest teeming with wildlife.
Perfect for adventure seekers, this 90-minute experience is fast-paced, fun, and requires some prior paddling experience. Feel the rush as you ride the rapids, then take in the serene beauty of the slow-moving waters beyond. Keep an eye out for deer, otters, herons, and maybe even a bald eagle soaring overhead.
The journey begins at Jack’s Landing in the Natural Education Reserve, setting the stage for an unforgettable ride through one of northern Michigan’s most scenic waterways. And remember—this is a rapids adventure, so you will get wet! Dress appropriately and get ready for a splash-filled ride.
Important: Paddlers aged 13-17 must be accompanied by an adult.
THIS TRIP IS NOT FOR BEGINNERS!!
NOTE: Helmets and life jackets are required (and provided).
This adventure concludes at Medalie Park, just 2.5 miles from your starting point at Jack’s Landing. We’ll provide transportation to the launch site at the beginning of your trip, so when you finish paddling, you’ll arrive right back where you parked your car.
Book Now$55 per person – Boardman River Experience
Includes life jacket, paddle, helmet, paddle strap and kayak.
BOARDMAN LAKE EXPERIENCE
Boardman Lake offers the perfect paddle adventure for experiencing the natural beauty of northern Michigan’s lakes and rivers, all within the heart of Traverse City. Whether you’re looking for a quick hour-long excursion or a full day on the water, this scenic 300-acre lake provides a peaceful and accessible paddling experience for all ages and skill levels.
Surrounded by lush forests and a mix of residential and natural shorelines, Boardman Lake is teeming with wildlife. Paddlers may spot beavers and muskrats along the water’s edge, while a variety of waterfowl, including swans, geese, mallards, buffleheads, gulls, terns, and mergansers, frequent the lake. The endangered common loon and majestic bald eagle are also known to make regular appearances, adding to the lake’s rich biodiversity.
This paddle adventure begins at Medalie Park, a convenient launch point on the southern end of the lake. From there, you can explore the calm waters of Boardman Lake or follow the gentle current of the Boardman River, leading all the way to the shimmering waters of West Grand Traverse Bay. Along the way, you’ll enjoy stunning views of the surrounding landscape, passing through areas of dense forest, boardwalks, and the vibrant community that calls this waterfront home.
To ensure the preservation of this beautiful environment and the enjoyment of all visitors, amplified music and alcohol are prohibited on all Rapids experiences.
Boardman Lake Experience – Hourly and Half Day
Includes life jacket, paddle, and kayak or paddle board.
About the Boardman (A River Reborn)
The Boardman River exists today because of a decades-long, multi-million dollar restoration effort. The goal was to return it to its natural, free-flowing state. This transformation happened with the removal of three hydroelectric dams—Brown Bridge, Boardman, and Sabin. We must all honor this effort by protecting and respecting this precious natural resource for future generations.
