Kayak Rental Traverse City

kayak rental traverse city river outfittersLooking kayak rental in Traverse City? The River Outfitters is your go-to source for top-quality kayak rentals—whether you need one for an afternoon adventure or a full week of fun.

Visit for a kayak rental in Travers City at our convenient location on Boardman Lake, where you’ll find plenty of free parking and easy water access. Prefer to stay put? No problem—we offer hassle-free delivery right to your vacation rental, cottage, or beach for overnight, weekend, or week-long rentals. Wherever your adventure takes you, we’ve got the perfect kayak to get you there!

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Single kayak – 1 Person

1 Hr $30 | 1/2 Day 4-Hrs $50 | 8 Hrs: $75 | 24 Hrs $85
2-3 Days $170 | 4-5 Days $ 180 | 6-7 Days $200 | 7+ Days Call Us

Tandem kayak – 2 Person

1 Hr $50 | 1/2 Day 4-Hrs $75 | 8 Hrs: $100 | 24 Hrs $110
2-3 Days $225 | 4-5 Days $ 245 | 6-7 Days $265 | 7+ Days Call Us

Kayak rentals
Jackson Riviera Sit-on-Top Kayaks
Single Kayak 11′ – Capacity 300 lbs
Tandem Kayak 14′ – Capacity 450 lbs

We exclusively use the Jackson Riviera model—one of the most popular and trusted sit-on-top kayaks on the market. Designed for ease, comfort, and durability, the Riviera is ideal for both beginners and seasoned paddlers. Its high-back seat provides excellent support, so you can relax and enjoy long paddling adventures without discomfort. Whether you’re cruising down the river or exploring quiet corners of the lake, this kayak delivers a smooth, stable ride every time.

Kayak Rental Traverse CityThe Riviera is great for beginners & pros and the high-back seat offers plenty of support, making sure you can kayak all day if you choose.  It’s the most popular rental on the market and the perfect way to experience our breathtaking waters.
kayak rental traverse city

*Delivery within >10 miles of Medalie Park $30, Max delivery is 20 miles from Medalie Park $50


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SUP Paddle Board Rental

Paddle board SUP lessons traverse cityThe River Outfitters is Traverse City’s premier SUP paddle board provider with both short & long term rentals*

Stop by our location right on the Boardman Lake with plenty of free parking. Or…If you prefer, we can conveniently deliver them right to where you are staying  for an overnight, weekend or full week rental

1 Hr $30 | 1/2 Day 4-Hrs $50 | 8 Hrs: $75 | 24 Hrs $85
2-3 Days $170 | 4-5 Days $ 180 | 6-7 Days $200 | 7+ Days Call Us

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We exclusively use Dolsey and Great Lakes paddle boards known for their stability and ease of use. Don’t worry if you have never been on a paddle board before, you can always sit or lay down and free instruction is included.

*Delivery within >10 miles of Medalie Park $30, Max delivery is 20 miles from Medalie Park $50


Boardman River Experience

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.

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NOTE: Helmets and life jackets are required (and provided).  Transportation provided from Medalie Park to river put in.  Trip ends back at Medalie Park. Click here for more details !

$55/Person – Includes life jacket, paddle, tether and kayak or paddle board. Self-Guided

Jackson Riviera Sit-on-Top Kayaks: Single Kayak 11′ – Capacity 300lbs • Tandem Kayak 14′ – Capacity 450lbs

We exclusively use Jackson Kayak’s Riviera model as it’s an easy-to-use, very comfortable sit-on-top kayak.
The Riviera is great for beginners & pros and the high-back seat offers plenty of support, making sure you can kayak all day if you choose.  It’s the most popular rental on the market and the perfect way to experience our breathtaking waters.
The River South | 231-883-1413
Medalie Park @ Boardman River & Lake - 1910 W. South Airport Rd, Traverse City MI
Trip Advisor Award Winner
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