The U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis (BEA) has recently shed light on the immense economic impact of outdoor recreation in Michigan. As champions of connecting people to nature, we at Paddle Antrim are thrilled by these statistics that underscore the strength of the outdoor industry within our state. In the year 2022 alone, Michigan’s economy received a staggering $12.4 billion boost from outdoor recreation. Notably, this contributed to the creation… Read More »

Paddle Antrim is excited to announce the allocation of $2,000 to two projects that will positively impact Northern Michigan’s waterways through the Ripple Effect Mini Grant Program. The Ripple Effect Mini Grant Program by Paddle Antrim is entirely supported by the revenue generated from the nonprofit’s events, such as the Paddle Antrim Festival, alongside proceeds from paddling classes. Deana Jerdee, Executive Director of Paddle Antrim, highlighted, “A portion of the… Read More »

River: A Haibun Inspired by the Six Mile-St. Claire Greenway As we launch, I ask myself what remarkable thing will happen on this river, in this sprawling wetland spotted with low-growth shrubbery and ruined forest. It is the wrong question. First, we must launch.  The wet deck, a platform of treated lumber thrusts over the river like a sturdy hand, but that structure doesn’t make stepping down to river level… Read More »

A Lens On Adventure with Art Since 2015, the Paddle Antrim Festival has drawn over 1,200 people from all over the country to Northern Michigan to experience the beauty of the Chain of Lakes Water Trail. This two-day non-competitive paddling event has become a fixture in the region, bringing visitors from near and far to celebrate our waterways and communities year after year. The festival has also become a celebration… Read More »

For many people, their first experience with Paddle Antrim—whether at a festival, class, or community event—sparks more than just a day of fun on the water. It often begins a journey of connection, curiosity, and commitment. For George Grazul, it started in 2017 when he took a safety class after moving to Traverse City and looking for a way to meet other paddlers. “Paddle Antrim wasn’t exactly what I was… Read More »

Debbie & Paul’s Dedication to Paddling Education  When Paddle Antrim began, a key foundation was to promote paddling with safety always in mind. One of the voids that was quickly apparent, was there were no paddling classes offered locally to provide paddlers with the skills needed. To fill this gap Paddle Antrim began offering paddling classes to adults and youth in 2017. Since these classes began, hundreds of paddlers have… Read More »

Paddle Antrim, a 501c3 nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting water protection and supporting paddling opportunities on the Chain of Lakes Water Trail, is pleased to announce the appointment of two esteemed individuals, Gary Buczkowski and Sue Haadsma-Svensson, to its board of directors. Both officially joined the board in June 2023, bringing with them a wealth of experience and a deep commitment to the organization’s mission. Haadsma-Svensson is a passionate outdoor… Read More »

Paddle Antrim is thrilled to announce the recipients of its Ripple Effect Mini Grant Program. Three projects have been selected to receive a combined total of $2,118, contributing to the protection, education, and enhanced access to waterways in Northern Michigan. The following projects have been chosen as recipients of the grants: Michigan 4-H Foundation for Antrim County 4-H: Antrim County 4-H will organize two introductory kayaking trips from Bellaire to… Read More »

Paddle Antrim is excited to host the 8th Annual Paddle Antrim Festival, September 14-16. Registration is open for all and early bird discounts are available until July 13.  The Paddle Antrim Festival is a great way to experience the Chain of Lakes Water Trail and the charming lakeside communities that surround it. This fun, non-competitive event provides opportunities for all levels of paddlers to participate one or two days with… Read More »