Eight Local Conservations Organizations Partner to Train Paddlers on Aquatic Invasive Species

Paddle Antrim and CAKE CISMA are excited to host four free aquatic invasive species (AIS) trainings in Northwest Michigan to train paddlers how to identify, report, and prevent the spread of aquatic invasive species (AIS).  “Our mission is not only to get more paddlers out on the water but to protect our waterways for future generations. One way we do this is by getting more paddlers who are trained to… Read More »


Tiny New Zealand Mudsnails Lead to Big Concerns in the Chain of Lakes

In spring of 2021 New Zealand mudsnails were identified in The Elk River Chain of Lakes Watershed where Shanty Creek flows into the Grass River. Emily Burke, Conservation and Education Specialist at Grass River Natural Area made this startling discovery and has continued to monitor and develop an invasive species management plan.  New Zealand mudsnails are an aquatic invasive species that have negative ecological impacts on rivers, streams, and lakes.… Read More »


Paddle Antrim Invites You to Kick off the Paddling Season with Short’s Brewing Company

Paddle Antrim is excited to kick-off the paddling season on the Chain of Lakes Water Trail with a special community paddle and gathering in Elk Rapids with Short’s Brewing Company. On Thursday, June 2, Paddle Antrim and Short’s Brewing Company invite you to join for a community paddle on Elk River launching from Elk Rapids Rotary Park followed by a gathering just up the road at the Short’s Pull Barn.… Read More »


Paddle Antrim Warns Paddlers to Take Extra Caution During Early Season Outings

It has been a slow start to spring in Northern Michigan and the water remains colder than usual this time of year. While paddlers and boaters are itching to get out on the water, Paddle Antrim warns paddlers to take precautions to protect themselves from heightened dangers of sudden, unexpected cold-water immersion while on early season paddling outings. While spring is in the air and outside temperatures are warming, lake… Read More »


Applications Being Accepted for Spring Ripple Effect Mini-Grant Program

Paddle Antrim is now accepting applications for their 2022 Ripple Effect Mini-Grant Program. This bi-annual competitive grant program supports projects that protect the waterways and connect people to them. Potential projects must focus on stewardship, education, or increasing accessibility to the lakes and rivers. Launched in 2015, this program has awarded over $25,800 to 17 projects that have made an impact on over 10 communities. The Ripple Effect Mini-Grant Program… Read More »


Paddle Antrim Funds Paddling Safety and Stewardship Projects Through Mini Grant Program

Paddle Antrim is pleased to announce that it will award $1,805 to two projects that positively impact the Chain of Lakes Water Trail and surrounding Northern Michigan waterways through its Ripple Effect Mini Grant Program. “Our Ripple Effect Mini Grant program provides a wonderful way for us to expand our impact by funding projects that align with our mission of protecting our waterways and connecting people to these amazing waters… Read More »


Paddle Antrim and The Village of Elk Rapids Partner to Improve Rotary Park

We are excited to announce that a partnership agreement with the Village of Elk Rapids has been signed to move forward with improvements to Elk Rapids Rotary Park. We have been working on design improvements with the village since 2016 and are pleased to be moving to this next phase.  Elk Rapids is the gateway to the Chain of Lakes Water Trail, offering over 100 miles for paddlers to explore… Read More »


Life Jackets and Proper Cold Water Gear Save Lives As Water Temperatures Drop

As temperatures in Northern Michigan are cooling down, Paddle Antrim warns paddlers to take precautions to protect themselves from heightened dangers of sudden, unexpected cold water immersion while on late season paddling outings. “Whenever paddlers are out on the water, they should dress with the assumption they may end up in the water,” says Deana Jerdee, Paddle Antrim Executive Director. “With the cooler weather, water temperatures have dropped and therefore… Read More »


Applications Being Accepted for Paddle Antrim’s Ripple Effect Mini-Grant Program

 Paddle Antrim is pleased to announce that they are now accepting applications for their 2021 Ripple Effect Mini-Grant Program. This competitive grant program funds projects that protect the waterways and connect people to them. Potential projects must focus on stewardship, education, or increasing accessibility to the lakes and rivers. A list of completed projects funded by this Mini Grant Program can be found on the completed projects page.  Since 2015,… Read More »


Planning Your Two Day Adventure on the Chain of Lakes Water Trail

Photo Credit: Pure Michigan  The Chain of Lakes Water Trail is a 100+ mile water trail that spans four counties: Charlevoix, Antrim, Grand Traverse, and Kalkaska. Best suited for day trips, the water trail has experiences appropriate for all paddling levels from beginner to advanced. The small lakes and meandering rivers in the Upper Chain are great for beginners or anyone who loves a peaceful paddle filled with rare wildlife.… Read More »