While there are countless opportunities to kayak in Northern Michigan, one of the best places to kayak is Sleeping Bear Dunes. Stretching 35 miles along Lake Michigan’s eastern coastline, including the North and South Manitou Islands, the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore was awarded the title of “The Most Beautiful Place in America” by Good Morning America in 2011. Sleeping Bear Dunes is a popular attraction for kayakers who want a variety of water to launch their boat. The park offers gentle, family-friendly river paddling, inland lakes with incredible views of wildlife, and paddling on Lake Michigan, which gives unique aspects of the dunes and glacial moraine bluffs that can only be seen on the water.
What makes kayaking Sleeping Bear Dunes such a unique experience is that you will be paddling under the 400-foot face of the dunes while discovering quiet, secluded beaches. Listen to the call of the loons as you glide through the aqua-blue waters of Lake Michigan and its many bays. If you prefer to be on a river, Sleeping Bear Dunes has many rivers to choose from where you can have a peaceful day enjoying the fantastic views, wildlife, and many varieties of fish swimming below you.
You can kayak Sleeping Bear Dunes Spring through Fall, as the winter months bring lots of snow, most inland lakes are frozen, and northern fronts. No matter what time of the year it is, you want to be prepared for any type of weather as it can quickly change on the lake. Dressing in layers is recommended, as well as checking the weather report hourly. Visitors who enjoy warmer temperatures prefer paddling in the Summer and Fall, while those who like cooler weather enjoy the Spring.
Spring
April brings the first signs of Spring to the Dunes. High temperatures range from 46°F to 60°F with an average low of 25°F to 38°F. The most comfortable time to get in the water is in the morning after 8 a.m. when it starts warming up a bit. May sees more sunshine and higher average temperatures between 58°F to 71°F, with the low evening temps ranging from 36°-48°F. The warmest parts of the day are around noon, with roughly 6.5 hours of sunshine.
June is officially the start of summer, with average high temperatures of 67-80°F, and comfortable evening temperatures between 45°F- 58°F. The skies are bright with around 8 hours of sunlight, meaning more time to kayak Sleeping Bear Dunes. At times, temperatures can reach the low 90’s but do not last for a long time. Summer thunderstorms are standard on the lakeshore, so checking those hourly forecasts and carrying a rain jacket and cold weather gear is recommended. If you want to beat the heat, the most pleasant time to paddle is between 7 and 11 a.m.
Typically, July is the hottest month in the area, with temperatures ranging between 76-85°F during the day, and 50-64°F in the evenings. July has had some days with temperatures in the mid-90’s and higher humidity levels, but again, it does not last for an extended period. There are approximately 9 hours of sunlight, which means more time on the water. With the reflection of the intense sun, it’s imperative to wear sunscreen, protective clothing, a hat, sunglasses, and to keep hydrated.
Come August, and the days are long and warm with occasional showers and thunderstorms. The high temperatures are between 75° and 82°F, there are roughly 7 hours of sunshine, with evening temperatures in the low 60-70°F range. The cooler part of the day to paddle is between 7 a.m. and noon, with hotter temperatures hitting between noon and 8 p.m.
Fall is a gorgeous time to kayak Sleeping Bear Dunes. September sees warm days with consistent rain, highs in the 65° to 76°F range, and an average low between 43-55°F. The mornings are a bit chilly until 9 a.m., with temperatures increasing gradually until 1 p.m. Rainfall is inevitable on the lakeshore, with an average of 4-6″ and partly cloudy skies throughout the days. The warmest part of the day in September is between 1 and 8 p.m.
The fall foliage peaks in October, bringing visitors to experience the incredible changing colors Sleeping Bear Dunes offers. The daytime temperatures are still pleasant, ranging from 56-63°F with 5 to 6 hours of sunshine and cloudy skies. The nights are getting colder with temps between 32°F and 44°F. There is an average of 12-15 days that will see rain, and October is the last month until April that visitors can bring their kayaks out.
The park is a water-lover’s dream with such a variety of places to kayak. There are two rivers to enjoy a casual paddle, seven inland lakes, and the notorious Lake Michigan.
Many visitors prefer river kayaking over an open lake because they enjoy the gentle currents carrying them downstream, which is perfect for beginners and families. The only drawback is that the river levels change with the seasons, and when the levels are lower, paddling can be a little more challenging when your paddle is hitting bottom. Here are two amazing rivers to consider:
Famous for “tubing the river” on inner tubes, Platte River also sees kayakers and canoes. It’s a hotspot in the summer, with visitors wanting to spend a relaxing day on the river with friends and coolers full of food and cold drinks. Stretching nearly 30 miles, the Platte River starts at Long Lake in Traverse City and flows into Lake Michigan near Honor. It has two common stretches to float or paddle, the long float, and the short float.
Every year the river consumes kayaker’s wallets, car keys, and cell phones. A good tip is to use a dry bag that is secured to your kayak. The same holds true for anywhere you plan on kayaking.
The Long Float
Locals say the best stretch to kayak is the Lower Platte, which starts at Riverside Canoes, just below the bridge on M-22 near Honor. The river is typically packed on the weekends in the summertime, so early morning or weekday paddle is recommended if you want some solitude. The kayaking season runs from April through November.
Called the “long float,” visitors will start from the M-22 bridge and come out at Lake Michigan. The trip can take 2-3 hours at a leisurely pace or can be completed much faster if you are actively paddling.
You need to plan and have a car waiting at the end to get you back to where you started, meaning two drivers and two vehicles that can accommodate your boats. There is the Lake Township parking lot at the end of your trip that requires a $5.00 parking fee. It’s first-come, first-serve, and is typically filled up by 11 a.m. There are public restrooms nearby, located at the Lake Township Park, which is a beautiful park for the kids to play if they have extra energy after a long day on the river.
The river access points are within the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, which requires a pass to visit within their boundaries. They offer a $25/weekly pass or $45/annual pass, which allows you access to all parts of the park and its parking lots. This also includes parking on the road when the parking lots are full. Or, there is a shuttle service offered by Riverside Canoes you can purchase for $10, which includes 1-3 kayaks or one vehicle, or $20 for more than three kayaks or two cars.
The Platte River usually is shallow with a sandy bottom, with some deeper portions at the corners of the river to hop out of your kayak and take a swim. There are also a few sandy beaches you can pull up to and take a break. Water temperatures are a comfortable 80°F in the summer months, and you will find a lot of people taking advantage of the great weather.
One portion of this stretch will take you through the park’s Loon Lake. The more adventurous go right through the middle of the lake where it’s deep, and you can’t see the bottom, or you can stay along the shoreline where it is shallower.
Even though the trip can be made in less than three hours, most folks plan to spend the day on the river, and you will work up an appetite. It’s recommended to pack a cooler or two with cold drinks and snacks. If you are craving something from the grill, Riverside Canoes has hamburgers, hot dogs, fries, ice cream, adult beverages, and a variety of snacks.
There is only one restriction when kayaking Sleeping Bear Dunes, which is no glass bottles allowed. They do allow pets on the river if you want to take your buddy for a paddle, but pets are not allowed at the end in the Lake Township Park or the beach.
Reviews of this stretch of river are mostly positive. No one complains about the beauty, weather, or crystal-clear waters. The only complaints are that the river gets packed with 100’s of people in the summer and that parking and the logistics of getting back to the launch site can be frustrating. But many reviewers say if you plan accordingly and start early, you can avoid most of the crowds and have an enjoyable experience.
The Short Float
If you are limited on time and desire a shorter paddle, the “short float” option has you putting your boat in at the El Dorado Boat Launch on Lake Michigan Road, which is a little further down the river. Here, you can drop your equipment off and have your driver park the vehicle at the Lake Township parking lot and walk 10-15 minutes back to the launch site. You are still required to pay the $5.00 parking fee and have a Sleeping Bear Dunes weekly or yearly pass. The short float is a quick trip on a kayak, taking an hour or less.
The reviews of the short float are the same as the long float, except for many people posting that they like not having to coordinate two vehicles and shuttle their equipment back and forth.
The Crystal River flows from Glen Lake, meandering through sections of the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, flowing into Lake Michigan. The endpoint is just north of the quaint town of Glen Arbor. More of a stream than a river, this sandy bottom body of water is 6.3 miles long. If you measure how the crow flies, it’s only 1.2 miles long, but winds through swamplands for over five times that length.
Typically, the river is no more than one foot deep, with an average width of 15-20 feet. Because of this, the river is popular with beginning kayakers and families. Famous for “shooting the tube,” kayakers can opt to ride through a drainage culvert that runs under the road, gently shooting them through the tube and back into the river, or portage your boat across the street and back into the river.
You can launch your kayak at Fisher Road and CR 675, which is also known as South Dunns Farm Road or West Crystal View Road. Your endpoint will be at Lake Michigan with the same parking and pass information as for the Platte River.
This paddle takes an average of 2-3 hours, depending on how many stops you make along the way. If you haven’t packed snacks and you get hungry along the way, you can take a break in Glen Arbor, where they have a tasty pizza place, grocery stores, and other dining experiences.
The reviews of the Crystal River are positive, describing the river as a fun and majestic place to kayak for all skill levels. The only concern some had was that several portages could be difficult for young children, older adults, or those with a physical disability.
There are many inland lakes for your enjoyment within the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. Some visitors prefer kayaking one of the many inland lakes the park offers because of the solitude and fewer crowds than you will find when kayaking the rivers. You will also experience some of the best wildlife viewings in the park. While the park is open year-round, the kayak season is typically from April through the end of October. Here is an overview of seven inland parks recommended to paddle.
A unique aspect for kayakers who want to visit Loon Lake is their ADA-compliant transfer system. Whether you are boarding or disembarking, this floating dock system can transfer a person safely and efficiently into their kayak or canoe.
Loon Lake is a large, sandy bottom lake without any beaches, but visitors can wade in the water near the boat ramp where the bottom is firm.
Motorboats are allowed on the lake, which is one of few that the park allows. The northern tip of the lake connects with the Platte River and is very shallow.
You can enter Loon Lake at the Public Access, off M-22 just south of where the highway crosses the Platte River. There is a large parking lot with newly renovated restrooms, water, and a picnic shelter. Parking fees are $25/weekly pass or $45/annual pass. Daily passes are not offered.
Visitors should plan to bring a picnic and beverages since there are no restaurants or stores in the immediate vicinity. Reviews of Loon Lake include a kayaker who said that it was a lovely, quiet lake just down from the Platte River, which becomes hectic with the crowds and tubers. Another wrote that it was not easy to launch small boats on trailers, but that should not be an issue for kayakers, especially with their launch system.
School Lake is the largest lake in Sleeping Bear Dunes and has a peaceful vibe. Motorized boats are not allowed, and while there is not much of a beach to relax on, the bottom of the lake is sandy enough for wading in or going for a swim.
You can access the lake from Bohemian Road (CR-669.) Driving north of Glen Arbor on M-22, it will be approximately 7.6 miles to Bohemian Road. Take a right on CR-669 and go for roughly ½ mile, where you will see the small gravel parking lot with a sign for School Lake. There is a vault toilet and no drinking water or food options available. Parking fees are $25 for a weekly pass or $45 for a yearly pass.
Kayakers who want to paddle from School Lake to Bass lake can do so on a small channel that connects the two.
There are no online reviews for School Lake. Maybe people just want to keep this gem to themselves!
Bass Lake is a wild, magical place to kayak with glacial origins, as are most of the lakes in Northwest Michigan. Two small cabins are surrounding the lake, and sandy beaches are found throughout the tree-lined shore. The sandy bottom lake has a maximum depth of 28 feet and is a popular destination for families to go swimming.
The lake is close to School Lake, on the east side of M-22, 6 miles north of Glen Arbor. You can access the lake from several different points, parking off the main road.
Motorized boats are not allowed, lending to the peacefulness of this fantastic spot. There are no restroom facilities at the lake, but if needed, you can go the short distance to the vault toilet at School Lake. While there are no facilities offering food or water, Bass Lake is the perfect place to have a picnic.
Reviews of Bass Lake are all positive. Visitors love the wildness of the lake and the tree-lined beaches, which offer a reprieve on a hot summer’s day. Others report that the fishing is fantastic, both from shore and from their kayak, and enjoy taking a dip in the refreshing water after their paddle.
These mesmerizing lakes are a kayak lover’s dream. Big and Little Glen Lake are two large bodies of water connected by a narrow channel, called Fisher Lake. The State Route 22 bridge crosses over this channel, and the larger lake to the east is called Big Glen Lake, with the smaller lake to the west referred to as Little Glen. Collectively they are known as Glen Lake. Little Glen Lake is roughly 12 feet deep, with the larger Big Glen have depths of 130 feet. Famous for its crystal clear, turquoise, and indigo blue waters, this all-sport lake attracts all types of watercraft and is one of the most beautiful lakes in the Great Lakes region. There is a public boat ramp for all types of boats on Day Forest Road, just off M-22 by the Narrows Bridge. You can also access Big Glen when launching your kayak here. To launch directly at Big Glen, you will find a public ramp for non-motorized boats only at the Old Settler’s Park in Burdickville.
There are no typical beaches to pull up on and enjoy a picnic or swim along the shores of Glen Lake. However, there is the Little Glen picnic area located off M-109 near the Dune Climb, which consists of a grassy area, picnic tables, public restrooms, and parking along the lakeshore. You can also launch your kayak from here if you feel like portaging from your car to the lake.
A sandbar that developed in post-glacial times separates Glen Lake from Lake Michigan. On that sandbar is a campground and the small village of Glen Arbor, where you can find water, restrooms, grocery stores, quaint shops, and a variety of restaurants.
There is an interesting hill on the north side of Little Glen Lake called Alligator Hill. It was produced in the Ice Age and post-glacial era, and its shape that was carved from the glaciers resembles an alligator. The hill becomes vibrant with the changing of the seasons and brings many visitors to the lake to witness the breathtaking colors and to swim in the warm water.
Reviews of Glen Lake are plentiful, most of them commenting on the beautiful colors of the water, which one visitor said was like being in the Caribbean, but in freshwater. Kayakers enjoy the mostly calm lake, the beautiful fall colors, and the variety of activities and places to explore close by in Glen Arbor.
The channel access to Big Glen and Little Glen Lake is called Fisher Lake, which is a popular location for people to have permanent homes, vacation homes, and rentals. Most homes have docks over the crystal blue water, with fantastic lake views.
You can access Fisher Lake from Big and Little Glen Lake, with the closest amenities in Glen Arbor.
Lime Lake is located two miles north of Maple City, and three miles south of Good Harbor Bay and the Sleeping Bear Dunes. It is set in a basin with the north and south ends of the lake featuring lowland swamps overrun by cedar, birch, and hemlock trees, and gently rolling hills to the east and west showcase conifers and upland hardwood trees.
Measuring 1.6 miles long and 1.1 miles wide, and 65 feet at its deepest, Lime Lake is enjoyed by kayakers, anglers, and swimmers alike who want to glide across the crystal-clear, spring-fed waters while trying to catch the healthy population of fish that live there.
The scenic route M-22 follows the lake to the north, with launch access on the southwest shore of Lime Lake. There you will find a developed boat access area and a dock, with limited parking and no amenities.
There are many homes and docks along the shore, with reviews of Lime Lake all positive. People enjoy the solitude of the lake, the clear water, and visitors renting vacation homes remarked that it is a peaceful place to kayak, fish, and swim.
Located on the Leelanau peninsula along the scenic M-22, Little Traverse lake is a popular kayaking, swimming, and fishing spot. The lake is 640 acres, and roughly 54 feet at the deepest point.
There is a gravel boat launch located at East Traverse Lake Road. There are small stores along the lake to buy snacks and drinks, and all online reviews were positive. Kayakers who have visited commented on how quiet the lake is, minimal people on the water, and lots of quaint cottages dotted around the shoreline.
Lake Michigan is one of The Great Lakes, and while it carries the name “lake,” it is an open body of water that is like the ocean. With wind, tides, and waves, a sea-worthy kayak will be more suitable for this lake excursion.
Lake Michigan is not for beginners. The lake is unpredictable, and kayakers should be prepared for constantly changing conditions, cold temperatures, fog, high winds, and rough seas. Before starting any kayak trip on Lake Michigan, it is recommended to consult the current marine forecast for advisories. You can reach them at NOAA 1-906-475-5212 or Marine Band Radio Channel 16.
The U.S. Coast Guard requires all watercraft (including kayaks) on Lake Michigan to have a personal flotation device (PFD), one per person on board, as well as a whistle or horn that is audible for a half-mile for 4-6 seconds. It is highly recommended always to wear your PFD while paddling Lake Michigan.
The Coast Guard also requires navigational lights and to carry a visual distress signal when operating your boat in areas of reduced visibility and between sunset and sunrise.
There are plenty of public boat launches and some carry-in access points. W. Bay Lane in Glen Arbor has carry-in access, as well as Port Oneida at the end of the road on South Sunset Shores Drive. County Road 669, also known as Bohemian Road, has carry-in access, and there are a vault toilet and water between Memorial and Labor Day. It’s approximately 125 -foot portage to the beach.
There are also many bays along Lake Michigan that are much safer and calmer to paddle.
You can explore the Lake Michigan shoreline for miles, taking in the magnificent blue water and captivating, panoramic views. Empire beach is family-friendly, featuring a playground, BBQs, fire rings, and a historic lighthouse. You can bring your food and drinks or find something to eat in Empire.
Located a block from downtown Empire, you can launch your kayak from the drive-in boat launch, and a $1.00 an hour parking fee applies.
There are mostly positive reviews of this beach, calling it the Caribbean of northern Michigan. Visitors are happy with the facilities but say parking can be a little tight.
Another calm place to paddle off Lake Michigan is Good Harbor Bay. There is an incredible beach overlooking the Manitou passage with a stream running into the lake from the woods. A park pass is required to park and launch at Good Harbor Bay Beach, plus a $10 parking fee.
This launch site is located at the west end of Bohemian Road and is 123 feet from the parking lot to the beach. Amenities include a picnic area, potable water, and restrooms.
Visitor reviews admire the view of the Manitou Islands and the overall beauty of the bay.
Before embarking on your kayaking adventure, you will want to be fully prepared for any type of weather. Here are some recommendations on what you should pack:
Below we’ve listed a few outfitters available in the area. While we try to keep the most up-to-date information available, please check with them on rates, hours of operation and service availability.
They are located at 5998 West River Road, M-22, Glen Arbor, Michigan. All About Water is close to the Crystal River and operates May through October. Hours of operation are 9a-5p, 7 days a week.
Rates and Packages
There are three different services they offer. Each service includes all equipment and a shuttle service. They offer two types of kayaks, a single kayak or tandem sit on tops:
Multi-Day Rentals
Their location is 5042 N. Scenic Hwy, Honor, MI, located on the Platte River. Rental season is May through October.
Rates and Packages
Riverside Canoes offer single or double kayak rentals, which include personal flotation devices and shuttle service from Lake Michigan. There are two trip options for kayakers: a family-inclusive float down the lower Platte River, or the more exhilarating “faster” water trip upriver.
Their prices start at $38 for a single boat and $62 for a double.
Crystal River Outfitters is located at 6249 W. River Road, Glen Arbor, MI, near the Crystal River. Their rental season runs from April to October.
Rates and Packages
While kayaking Sleeping Bear Dunes, visitors have an abundance of opportunities to enjoy the flora and fauna that the park offers. There is a variety of plant life, which is the flora found throughout the park.
With such weather extremes that the park encounters, plant species have had to learn to adapt and survive. While kayaking near the dunes, you will encounter the dune grass, which is a plant that has deep roots that search for the groundwater. If you take a break from paddling to walk the dunes, it is recommended to wear shoes because it can be quite painful if you step on this grass that is buried beneath the sand.
Other types of flora to be found are the succulent Sea Rocket, Bearberry, and the endangered species Pitcher’s thistle, which is only found in Michigan’s great lakes.
A great time to witness the beautiful flowers of the dunes is near the end of June. The harebell, wind anemone, hoary puccoon, and dune lily have brightly colored flowers that blanket the dunes. They are intermixed with more subtle colors from flowers such as the death camas, false heather, and the Pitcher’s thistle.
Paddling along the rivers and lakes, you will see many types of plants that have adapted to live in the shadier areas, sunnier spots, and in the water itself. You can expect to see ferns, water lilies, the purple-fringed orchid, and red cardinal flowers. The marshier areas along the Crystal River have yellow cowslips and marsh marigolds.
The animals that live in a specific region are called fauna. Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore is the home to many varieties of mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, and fish. With such a variety of habitats within the park, it’s no wonder various groups of animals want to reside there!
Over 50 species of mammals have been identified living in the park, such as foxes, cougars, bobcats, black bears, squirrels, white-tail deer, bats, raccoons, and porcupines.
The lakes and rivers have many habitats that appeal to waterfowl. Visitors are excited to see hooded mergansers, wood ducks, blue-winged teal, bald eagles, trumpeter swans, buffleheads, hawks, and the endangered piping plover.
Bird-lovers are in paradise while kayaking Sleeping Bear Dunes. Especially during migration when millions of birds flock to the area to rest and nest during the cold winter months.
Being on the water allows you the opportunity to see other types of animals that other visitors to the park won’t have a chance to see. There are turtles, snakes, frogs, playful otters, and busy beavers.
The many lakes, rivers, and streams are home to spawning salmon, small-mouth bass, lake trout, northern pike, yellow perch, and brown trout. There are also significant populations of rock bass, bluegill, and walleye.
If kayaking and fishing are your ideas of fun, anglers can fish for pike, trout, salmon, and bass with a Michigan fishing license. The Michigan Fishing Guide has details on the fishing regulations in Michigan.
Disclaimer:
We try to offer accurate and up-to-date information in this post; however, please contact the National Park Service for their most recent information regarding entrance fees, parking information, annual passes, any restrictions, and hours of operation. The Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore park headquarters can be reached at (231) 326-4700 or click here to visit their website. Additionally, if you plan to rent equipment, please visit each rental outfitter for the most up to date information.