Where

The Power of Water – 5 places we like to kayak and standup paddleboard around Lansing.

  1. Island Park in Grand Ledge – Grand river
    Perfect spot for a late afternoon, leisurely paddle. Calm and protected section of the Grand river right in the middle of Grand Ledge. Be sure to check out the scenic Ledges. 1-3 hours. Put in/take out at JC Park boat launch. Grab ice cream from Lick-ity Split on Bridge street. All skill levels.

SUP, canoe and kayak.

  1. Riverfront Park in Downtown Lansing – Grand river
    Right out the back door of The Power of Water. Enjoy all the sights and sounds of Downtown Lansing. Potter Park Zoo, Lansing City Market and Old Town are some of the highlights. There can be a bit of current at times, so some paddling skills are recommended. Grab local eats and brew at The Waterfront Bar and Grill in the Lansing City Market. 1 hour to a full day. We play out here a lot, come and join us. SUP, canoe and kayak.
  1. Sleepy Hollow State Park
    How can this place only be 15 minutes north of town? SHHHH, this is the best kept paddling secret in the region. No wake lake, maybe a few fishing boats, an abundance of wildlife and a Park committed to improving the user’s experience. Sunrise on Lake Ovid can be magical. Skip the swim beach and use the boat launch, there is a nice picnic area as well. Great location for new paddlers. SUP, canoe or kayak
  1. Old Town fish ladder to Delta Mills park – Grand river
    This section of the river has a little taste of everything: Historic, industrial, scenic rural settings, some playful current, plenty of Blue Heron and the occasional Bald Eagle. Put in below the dam at Clark Hill offices in Old Town. 2-3 hours to Delta Mills park or 5-6 all the way to Grand Ledge at JC park. There are a few big strainers on this route, so proper boat handling skills highly recommended. Kayak or canoe. SUP at higher levels. Grab enchiladas verdes at Pablo’s when you get back to Old Town.
  1. Williamston whitewater run – Red Cedar river
    Nice place to play and practice when the levels are right. Generally 350cfs to 800cfs is best. This is a short thrill ride for the inexperienced or a spot to hone your eddy catching and ferrying skills for those with some whitewater background. Fairly tight little run, so keep the group small. The park is just north of downtown Williamston on Williamston Rd. Check out Tavern 109 for coaches debrief afterwards. River kayaks or canoes. No SUP.