If you’re from the mitten state, then it’s pretty likely that you’ve been in a kayak or canoe at some point in your life. A state surrounded by water with thousands of inland lakes and river ways, creates some breathtaking experiences when kayaking in Michigan.
Your level of experience will determine the type of kayaking in Michigan you should attempt. Taking a Pictured Rocks Kayak Tour or a 3 hour river cruise tends to be right up my alley. But there are those select few who take on the “all-nighter” to compete in the annual Ausable River race. It really is something to see, these guys are true-blue athletes!
I am not. I prefer the leisurely paddle through rivers or the beautiful scenery of our Michigan shores. Even our little lake that hosts Twin Cedars is abundant with wildlife to inspire more kayaking in Michigan.
Of course there may be a few items you could leave behind, especially for much shorter trips. But I, for one, like to be prepared. You know, just in case I suddenly get a hunger attack that I can’t control.
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Essential Items for Kayaking in Michigan
Polarized sunglasses
I know this isn’t the first time I’ve recommended these for a trip to Michigan. I mean, we do have a lot of water and the reflection can be killer, plus if they’re polarized you’ll be able to see below the surface. Totally awesome when viewing underwater structures, boulders or creatures.
Hat
And not just for the obvious reason of keeping the sun off your head, but for keeping the sun out of your eyes. Especially if you’re on the open waters of a lake. If you really want to take in the beauty of your surroundings, without squinting the entire time, get yourself a stylish one.
Water shoes
You’ll probably be getting out of your kayak a time or two, to umm pee… or have lunch or whatever. Depending on where your kayaking in Michigan you may come across glass, especially on the bottom of rivers. Back in the day many of the rivers were used for dumping – crazy right? Like they thought it would just float away to the end of the flat Earth and fall off into space? (eye roll!)
But water shoes are also good other times. Like when you want to avoid slipping on rocks or you freak out like me when your foot touches muck. And can I just say that these have come a looong way!
Waterproof phone case
I loved the exact one I took on a recent Pictured Rocks Kayak Tour – aaahhh-mazing by the way and post coming soon! This case was perfect, inexpensive and I could still take a million pictures without taking my phone out.
Quick-dry clothing
I’m obsessed with these rash guards! A zip front allows you let air in if you need it. It keeps the sun from burning you up and keeps you warm when it’s a cool Michigan day. It dries super fast and looks good even if you plan to stop for a bite to eat after your excursion of kayaking in Michigan.
Also, for my kayaking – water loving ladies, these athletic skirts are awesome! Built in shorts so you can wear them alone or with your swimsuit bottoms underneath. A great price and this is the exact one I have. I even wear these to amusement parks or gardening. So comfortable and won’t show anything!
And for the guys, Bob loves these lightweight shirts from Tackle Warehouse. And he’s even got these in almost every color now – lol! He’s very particular and after a packing mishap (on my part…I’ll never live down the time I left a drawer full of his stuff at the RenCen during a weekend getaway…I’m not gonna lie those old swim trunks were hideous. So maybe I did it ‘subconsciously’ on purpose?) Anyhow, I approve of the new ones 😉
Small Cooler
When getting a cooler you should really get one that’s soft-sided and if it’s a backpack style, that’s even better. This allows for you to easily strap it to the top of your kayak with the bungee cords attached or shove in below if you’re tucked within a sea kayak. And it carries pretty easily, too.
Snacks
The best snacks to pack are those that travel well, are easy to eat and don’t spoil. I tend to bring hard boiled eggs, string cheese and these shorty sticks – so good and no extra carbs! Some portioned veggies, plenty to drink and you’ve got yourself a healthy little shore lunch.
Kayaking in Michigan can be a great adventure but please be safe.
The waters of our Great Lakes are cold and even the inland lakes can prove to be dangerous for those who are inexperienced.
Ensuring you have the proper equipment comes without question! Life jackets are a must! And understanding the difference between a sea kayak and recreational kayak could mean avoiding the need for a rescue.
In other words, be prepared!
Where are you headed next? Any bucket list, kayaking in Michigan, tours planned? We’d love to hear about them! Follow along on Facebook for all our latest shenanigans or Instagram for even more photos!
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