Elk Rapids Rotary Park Ribbon Cutting

On June 3 officials from the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR), the Village of Elk Rapids, Paddle Antrim, and supporters gathered to officially cut the ribbon on a suite of trailblazing improvements at Rotary Park. The project marks a significant milestone for Michigan’s outdoor recreation industry, debuting the state’s first permanent non-motorized boat washing station and creating a new standard for universal accessibility.

Rotary Park is a key trailhead for the state-designated Chain of Lakes Water Trail and these improvements include the trail’s second universally accessible (UA) launch. When paired with the existing launch in Kewadin, this addition completes the first-ever fully accessible point-to-point paddling route on the 100-mile trail system.

“We are proud to support and invest in improvements at Rotary Park, along the Chain of Lakes Water Trail in Elk Rapids,” said Kristen Kosick, chief of Parks and Recreation for the Michigan Department of Natural Resources. “Michigan is one of the best places to boat and paddle in the country, and these improvements and new amenities will further enhance the experience for our visitors. The investments were made possible through the DNR’s Waterways Grant-in-Aid grant program and DNR’s Spark Grant program. We encourage other communities to take advantage of DNR’s grant opportunities to help us continue improving access to our state’s incredible waterways.”

Stewardship was also a focal point, with the installation of a native-plant rain garden to manage stormwater runoff and the leading edge non-motorized boat wash station designed to prevent the spread of aquatic invasive species and promote education on prevention through clean, drain, dry.

“At Paddle Antrim, we believe our incredible waterways should be protected and accessible to everyone,” said Deana Jerdee, executive director of Paddle Antrim. “By completing this project, we are not just adding infrastructure; we are removing barriers. Whether it’s through the universal launch or the state’s first permanent non-motorized boat wash, we are ensuring that the Chain of Lakes remains a world-class destination for all paddlers while safeguarding our water for generations to come.”

Beyond the launch, the park now offers fully plumbed restrooms equipped with an adjustable adult changing station—a critical feature for many individuals with disabilities.

“These improvements were identified as a priority in our 2018 Recreation Plan and by community leaders,” said Tom Stephenson, Village of Elk Rapids President. “Seeing this concept, which began in 2019, finally come to life for our residents and visitors is an incredible moment for our community.”

This project is made possible from generous donors including Michigan Department of Natural Resources, Village of Elk Rapids, Jim and Diana Huckle Family Foundation, Rotary Charities of Traverse City, Elk Rapids Rotary Club, Sue Haadsma-Svensson & Kjell Svensson, Oleson Foundation, Grand Traverse Regional Community Foundation, BlueStone Futures, Gary & Mary Chenoweth, Barton J Ingraham & Gail G Ingraham Foundation, Matt & Deb Knudstrup, Tom & Debby McMullen, Christine Petersen, Judith Gaskin and Kurt Ross, Karen Simpson, & The Harry A. and Margaret D. Towsley Foundation.

 

The celebrations continue this Saturday, June 6, 2026. Paddle Antrim invites the community to the official paddling season kickoff:

Learn more about this event at www.paddleantrim.com/event/2026-season-kick-off-community-paddle/