Summer in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula means long days, warm sun, and countless ways to enjoy the water. From the vast expanse of Lake Superior to inland lakes and swift-moving rivers, the UP offers a playground for anyone who loves being on the water. Kayaking, paddleboarding, and tubing are three of the most popular ways to spend a summer day, and each provides a different experience. Whether you want to explore remote shorelines, balance on a stand-up paddleboard, or float down a river with friends, the Upper Peninsula has a spot for you.
Kayaking in the Upper Peninsula
Kayaking lets you access places that are hard to reach on foot. The Upper Peninsula has countless lakes and rivers that are perfect for paddling. Whether you prefer a calm inland lake or the open waters of Lake Superior, you will find a route that fits your skill level. Many visitors choose guided tours to learn about the area’s history and geology while paddling.
Sea Kayaking on Lake Superior
Lake Superior offers a sea kayaking experience unlike any other. The shoreline features sandstone cliffs, sea caves, and sandy beaches. One highly rated option is the 2.5-hour sea kayak tour with the Keweenaw Adventure Company. Guests describe it as an awesome experience with great guides and stunning views. This tour is a perfect introduction to sea kayaking for beginners and a rewarding challenge for experienced paddlers.
For those who want to explore on their own, the Hiawatha Water Trail runs 120 miles from Big Bay to Grand Marais along Lake Superior’s south shore. This trail follows a route paddled by Native Americans and offers a mix of sheltered coves and open-water sections. You can paddle a short segment for a day trip or plan a multi-day expedition.
Inland Lakes and Rivers
If you prefer calmer water, head to the many inland lakes in the Upper Peninsula. The Ontonagon area, near the Porcupine Mountains, has lakes and rivers where you can kayak, fish, and paddleboard. Many of these waters are surrounded by forest, giving you a peaceful escape from busier tourist spots. You can also navigate swift-moving rivers for a more exciting ride. Kayaking on these rivers brings you closer to nature and allows you to see wildlife and waterfalls that are inaccessible from land.
Paddleboarding in the Upper Peninsula
Stand-up paddleboarding, or SUP, has become one of the fastest-growing water sports in the Great Lakes region. The Upper Peninsula offers excellent conditions for paddleboarding, from the calm bays of Lake Superior to the still waters of inland lakes. Paddleboarding gives you a full-body workout while letting you enjoy the scenery.
Best Spots for Paddleboarding
Marquette is a prime location for paddleboarding. The city’s waterfront on Lake Superior has several access points, and the water can be flat in the morning before the wind picks up. You can paddle out to Picnic Rocks or along the shoreline past Presque Isle Park. The Marquette area also has inland lakes like Teal Lake, which is often glassy and ideal for beginners.
The Porcupine Mountains and Ontonagon area also offer paddleboarding on Lake Superior and nearby lakes. The calm bays near the mouth of the Ontonagon River provide protected water for practice. For a unique experience, try paddleboarding on a quiet evening when the sunset reflects off the lake.
What to Bring for Paddleboarding
Before you head out, make sure you have the right gear. A leash, a personal flotation device, and a paddle that suits your height are essential. In the Upper Peninsula, lake water temperatures can stay cool even in summer, so a wetsuit or drysuit is recommended if you plan to paddle in deeper parts of Lake Superior. Sunscreen, a hat, and plenty of water are also important.
Tubing and Other Water Sports on the UP
Tubing is a classic summer activity in the Upper Peninsula. You can float down slow-moving rivers or get towed behind a boat for a more thrilling ride. Many rivers in the UP have sections that are perfect for tubing, with gentle currents and sandbars for resting. The Ontonagon River and the streams near Marquette are popular choices. Always check water levels and wear a life jacket.
Beyond tubing, the Upper Peninsula offers a wide range of other water sports. Jet skiing, wakeboarding, water skiing, and kneeboarding are available on many larger lakes. If you want something slower, try sailing or rowing. Lake Superior also offers surfing, windsurfing, and kitesurfing when the conditions are right. For a truly unique view, consider a parasailing adventure from Mackinac Island, where you can soar above the Straits of Mackinac.
Top Water Trails and Rental Companies
Having the right equipment makes your water sports experience safer and more enjoyable. Across the Upper Peninsula, several companies offer kayak, paddleboard, and tubing rentals, as well as guided tours.
Hiawatha Water Trail
The Hiawatha Water Trail is a designated route that follows 120 miles of Lake Superior shoreline from Big Bay to Grand Marais. It is marked for paddlers and includes campsites along the way. This trail is ideal for experienced kayakers who want to challenge themselves with a multi-day trip. Day paddlers can explore shorter sections near Big Bay or the Pictured Rocks area. The trail is managed by local organizations that provide maps and safety information.
Rental and Tour Operators
Several outfitters serve the Upper Peninsula. The Keweenaw Adventure Company is based in the Keweenaw Peninsula and offers sea kayak tours and rentals. Visitors on Tripadvisor call their tours an absolutely awesome experience with great guides. In Marquette, several shops rent paddleboards, kayaks, and other gear. The Ontonagon area also has outfitters that provide water sports equipment for use on Lake Superior and nearby rivers.
For visitors planning a trip to the Upper Peninsula in 2025, it is a good idea to reserve rentals and tours in advance, especially during peak summer months. Check the official websites of each company for current availability and safety guidelines.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best time of year for kayaking in the Upper Peninsula?
Summer, from June through August, offers the warmest weather and longest daylight hours for kayaking. Lake Superior water temperatures are coolest in early June and warmest in August. Inland lakes and rivers warm up earlier and are comfortable for paddling from late May through September.
Do I need experience to go paddleboarding in the UP?
No, stand-up paddleboarding is beginner-friendly, especially on calm inland lakes. Many rental shops offer a quick lesson before you head out. If you try paddleboarding on Lake Superior, choose a day with little wind and start in a sheltered bay for the best experience.
Can I bring my own kayak or paddleboard to the Upper Peninsula?
Yes, bringing your own equipment is common. Many public launch sites and boat ramps provide free access to lakes and rivers. Be sure to check invasive species regulations, as the state of Michigan requires you to clean, drain, and dry your watercraft before launching.
Are there guided tubing trips available?
Guided tubing trips are less common than kayak tours, but some outfitters offer tube rentals and shuttle services on certain rivers. You can also bring your own tube and explore on your own. Always wear a life jacket and check river conditions before floating.
With so many options for kayaking, paddleboarding, and tubing, the Upper Peninsula is a top destination for summer water sports. Whether you choose a guided sea kayak tour on Lake Superior, a peaceful afternoon on a paddleboard in Marquette, or a lazy tube float on an inland river, you will find that the UP’s waters offer endless opportunities for fun and adventure.