Before you head out..
We are located at the Duck Park (aka Sportsmen’s Island) in Alpena, MI. The park is located on W. Chisholm St and Long Rapids Rd, across the street from My Michigan Medical Center Alpena. Parking lot entrance for the park is off of Long Rapids Rd. An extremely user friendly kayak and canoe launch is located approximately 35 yards from our boat lockers to help you explore the Wildlife Sanctuary segment of the Thunder Bay River. Want to take your equipment off site? No problem!
We offer contactless bookings to provide you with more opportunity for adventure. Equipment is available Seven Days a Week, 6am - 9pm from May 1st until September 30th. Book and pay online using our scheduling system, get a code to unlock your gear and you are set to go. Return your gear within your reservation time and it’s off to your next outing.
Lifejackets and paddles are included with all watercraft. Waterproof bags and phone cases are available for a small additional fee. All bike rentals come with a bike lock and helmet. We STRONGLY SUGGEST lifejackets be worn at all times on watercraft and helmets on bikes. If you choose not to wear your lifejacket it must remain on the watercraft with you per Michigan Law.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where Should I Paddle on the River?
-The map below outlines three of the most popular routes for paddlers. Starting at the launch (marked with a yellow star) follow the Black line out. From there you can choose the Blue, Red or Yellow Route.
Blue - 1 mile, easiest and most popular route
Red - 1.75 miles to Washington St. Park (3.5 mile round trip). This is the longest route yet very easy to navigate and least effected by current.
Yellow - 1 mile to railroad tracks near the 9th St Bridge (2 mile round trip). This route can be the most effected by the current if the 9th St dam is open. If the dam is open it can make the return trip must more challenging than the paddle out.
To help plan your trip time; here are approximate paddle speeds based on ability and fitness level.
Beginner/Relaxed, 1.5-2.2mph
Casual Recreational, 2-3mph
Intermediate/Advanced, 3-4mph
Can I rent a kayak or canoe for more than two hours?
-Absolutely! Our system only allows for a maximum 2 hour block for boats. To extend your adventure you will need to book additional reservations. For example; to book a 3 hour reservation starting at 4pm, book a 2hr reservation at 4pm and a 1hr reservation at 6pm.
How to I transport a SUP to a different body of water or my lake house/cottage rental?
-SUPs are very easy to transport, we do offer straps and pads to make the process easier. Check out the links below for videos on securing boards to your vehicle. The best way to transport a SUP is on a vehicle equipped with roof racks that have flat sections traveling from driver to passenger side. Pick up trucks are the next best/easiest vehicle to transport.
Check out this video for detailed instructions
What is the current like on the river?
-Very low and more often than not a non-factor even for inexperienced paddlers. Keep an eye on wind strength and direction which can make paddling more challenging. Please not wind and currents become strong near the area of the W. Chisholm St. bridge.
Can the kayaks go out on Lake Huron?
-We offer rec style kayaks, these boats do not have sealed bulkheads and are not for use on Lake Huron.
Do I have to wear my life jacket?
-We highly suggest you wear a life jacket while paddling but the choice is yours. If you choose not to wear the life jacket, it must be in/on your watercraft.
What kind of bikes do you have?
-We have single speed, beach cruiser style bikes. Perfect for navigating the Alpena Bi-Path (link to map). We would not recommend taking the bikes on trails or off road.
What is there to do in the area?
-Check out visitalpena.com for a comprehensive list of sites, attractions and great local places to eat and drink.
Contact us
Interested in working together? Fill out some info and we will be in touch shortly. We can’t wait to hear from you!