Ever wondered where water adventures await at every turn? St. Ignace, located in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, offers a plethora of paddling opportunities—from serene rivers to expansive lakes. Visitors flock here year-round to enjoy aquatic activities, explore nearby Upper Peninsula attractions, attend seasonal festivals, and savor delightful dining options. After a day on the water, you can unwind in local accommodations to prepare yourself for the next day’s explorations.
Ready to make a big splash? We’ve put together the ultimate guide to kayaking, paddleboarding, and canoeing around St. Ignace so you can glide your way into a great adventure—hidden coves, rugged shorelines, and peaceful rivers—plus we’ll share all the best spots to rent gear, and even a few other fun surprises that are waiting for you when you visit St.Ignace!
Where to Rent Paddle Sport Gear
No kayak? No problem! Our area is home to some fantastic folks who are more than happy to rent out kayaks, stand-up paddle boards, and just about any other water toy you can think of. These local businesses make it super easy to enjoy the water without the stress of transporting your own gear. Here are a few of our top picks:
Mackinac Straits Watersports Rental Co.
Mackinac Straits Watersports Co. in St. Ignace is our go-to spot for getting out on the water. Whether you’re up for a peaceful paddle in a kayak, a scenic stand-up paddle board ride, or even an adrenaline-pumping jet ski adventure, they’ve got you covered.
They also offer special excursions—paddle Moran Bay, cruise under the Mackinac Bridge, or catch a sunset over the water. They even offer fireworks tours in the summer! Call 517-528-9545 to book your adventure.
With flexible rental options and convenient delivery services, it’s easy to explore the Straits of Mackinac from the local shores.
Paddle Mackinac Island—Great Turtle Kayak
While some experienced kayakers may choose to paddle away from St. Ignace, most visitors prefer to take the ferry and begin their journey right from the island’s shores, offering a fresh perspective of this historic location.
No need to bring your own gear—Great Turtle Kayak Tours provides rentals and guided tours right on the island, making it easy to explore the island’s dramatic rock formations and serene waterways at your own pace.
For those comfortable on the water, kayaking around Mackinac Island is a must. The 8-mile route treats you to views of limestone bluffs, hidden sea caves, and Arch Rock, making it an adventure you’ll remember for years to come.
Woods & Waters—Hessel, MI
Woods & Waters is a family-owned business based in the Les Cheneaux Islands that takes pride in offering personal service and unforgettable experiences in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. They specialize in guided kayaking tours and rentals, including sit-on-top kayaks that are ideal for fishing, and tour options that last a few hours or a few days. Located just 30 minutes northeast of the Mackinac Bridge, Woods & Waters also provides bike rentals and repairs, making it a one-stop shop for your outdoor adventure needs.
Brevoort Lake Campground—on Brevoort Lake
For a laid-back sort of adventure, rent a kayak, canoe, or stand-up-paddle board directly from the Brevoort Campground. Located off Highway 2, about 20 miles west of St. Ignace, the lake is a generally calm environment that is perfect for beginners or anyone looking to unwind while surrounded by nature. With a $6 day pass fee, it’s an affordable way to spend a relaxing day on the water. Glide through the gentle currents, taking in the lush surroundings and spotting wildlife along the way.
On your return to St. Ignace, a stop at Gustafson’s Smoked Fish in Moran is highly recommended. This family-owned convenience store is celebrated for its smoked fish, and they also offer a variety of jerky. Beyond smoked goods, the store provides a selection of travel essentials and other tasty treats, making it a convenient pit stop for travelers.
The St. Ignace Shoreline
One of the best things about St. Ignace is the location right along the shores of Lake Huron. The Huron Boardwalk follows the shoreline through downtown, and it’s definitely where a lot of the excitement happens, all year long.
The pathway leads straight to the inviting waters of Lake Huron, where calm conditions near the marina create a perfect launch spot—especially for beginners. As you glide across the water, you’ll be treated to amazing views of the Wawatam Lighthouse, Mackinac Island, and the entire St. Ignace Shoreline.
Les Cheneaux Islands
A short drive east from St. Ignace leads you to the Les Cheneaux Islands—an archipelago made up of 36 islands, surrounded by calm waters, winding channels, and historic boathouses. From your hotel in St.Ignace, take the scenic drive that traces the Lake Huron shoreline to Hessel or Cedarville, where you’ll find easy water access and gear rentals. Make a day of it by packing some local treats—stop by Boardwalk Coffee and General Store for crackers and artisanal cheese from Charlevoix Cheese Company, or even swing by Mackinac Straits Fish Company for a container of their famous whitefish dip. With great food and a gorgeous landscape, your paddling adventure will be one to really savor!
Paddling the Rivers of the Eastern U.P.
Finding your flow around St. Ignace isn’t only about open lake waters, though. For a different sort of paddling experience, seek out the gentle rivers that are waiting to be explored. Spend a day paddling your way through our northern paradise, winding down the graceful currents, and you’ll want to come back again and again!
The Pine River
Winding through the Hiawatha National Forest, the Pine River offers a slow-moving paddle route with forested banks. In the spring, snowmelt speeds up the current, while in late summer, you might have to drag in a few spots. Along the way, you’ll have plenty of chances to spot wildlife, including white-tailed deer, black bears, bald eagles, and over 250 bird species.
The Carp River
This river flows through dense forest before emptying into Lake Huron. Launch points can be found along Mackinac Trail (H-63) and Forest Route 3445, with easy access from the Carp River Campground. Stocked with brown trout and steelhead, you could even catch sight of salmon swimming upstream in the fall.
Check out this video by MI Playground as they share their paddling experience on the Carp River.
Safety First!
Paddling the Upper Peninsula is an incredible experience, but the waters can be unpredictable. To stay safe, always wear a life jacket—no exceptions! Check the weather before heading out, as wind and storms can quickly change water conditions. Stick to your skill level; open water crossings require experience, so if you’re unsure, stay near shore or consider taking a guided tour. Pack smart by bringing waterproof bags for your gear, extra layers, and plenty of water. Lastly, respect the environment by packing out what you bring in and being mindful of wildlife.
See you Soon!
No matter your skill level, St. Ignace promises an unforgettable paddling experience. From accessible rivers to open lake waters, the scenery and occasional wildlife sightings make every stroke a new adventure. So, grab a paddle, hit the water, and make memories that will last a lifetime!
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