Paddle Antrim receives funding for the Chain of Lakes Water Trail to promote regional tourism

Paddle Antrim is pleased to announce the Chain of Lakes Water Trail received a grant for $70,500 from the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development toward development of the Chain of Lakes Water Trail. This grant includes funding for installation of signage, development of a paddler’s guide, and marketing for the water trail to improve the experience for paddlers while out on the water. “This water trail is truly… Read More »


Ripple Effect Awards

Paddle Antrim announced it will award $2,400 to two projects that benefit Northern Michigan’s waterways through its Ripple Effect Mini Grant Program. “Our Ripple Effect grant program provides a wonderful way for us to expand our impact by funding projects that support our mission of protecting our waterways and connecting people to these amazing waters through paddling” says Deana Jerdee, Paddle Antrim’s Executive Director. Grass River Natural Area was awarded… Read More »


Chain of Lakes Water Trail first designated water trail in Northern Michigan

Paddle Antrim is pleased to announce the Chain of Lakes Water Trail is the first designated water trail in Northern Michigan. The State of Michigan’s Department of Natural Resources recently designated eight water trails as part of its newly developed statewide water trail program. Water trails, a designated route along a river or lake designed for non-motorized watercraft like kayaks and canoes, positively impact the local economy, encourage healthy lifestyles,… Read More »


Ripple Effect Grant Applications Due October 19th

Paddle Antrim is accepting applications for their bi-annual 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. Since 2015, Paddle Antrim has awarded over $19,000 from income earned through their events.  Projects must be focused on the Elk River Chain of Lakes watershed or… Read More »


Paddle Antrim Celebrates the Chain of Lakes

Paddle Antrim is ready to celebrate Northern Michigan’s Chain of Lakes at the Paddle Antrim Festival September 13-15th.  This event is highlighted by a two-day paddle through Antrim County’s Chain of Lakes and includes community events all weekend long for the entire community. On Friday September 14th over 100 paddlers will launch from the Village of Ellsworth’s River Park and paddle up to 15 miles to the Village of Bellaire. … Read More »


Experience Northern Michigan’s paddling routes and communities at the Paddle Antrim Festival

As the transition to fall begins, a local non-profit and four communities in Northern Michigan are gearing up for the 4th Annual Paddle Antrim Festival September 13-5th.  This premier event celebrates the Chain of Lakes and the great communities that surround it. With two days of great paddling and three days of community events with live music, outdoor activities, and food/drink, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Kayakers and… Read More »


Paddle Antrim Festival offers great experience on Northern Michigan’s Chain of Lakes Water Trail

Paddling is becoming an even more popular recreational activity and Paddle Antrim is offering paddlers a great way to get out on the water with the fourth annual Paddle Antrim Festival, September 13-15th. This Festival celebrates Northern Michigan’s waters and communities and highlights the diversity of the Chain of Lakes Water Trail. The Paddle Antrim Festival is a fun, non-competitive event where paddlers can enjoy being out on Antrim County’s… Read More »


Local Paddling Classes – Great experience for more fun on the water

Paddle Antrim is excited to offer kayaking and paddleboarding classes this summer in Northern Michigan. These are great classes for beginners and for those who have been paddling for a while but have never had any formal training. These interactive on the water classes are great fun for learning how to paddle more efficiently and make sure you are safe while out on the water.  Classes offered include both adult… Read More »


Paddle Antrim Awards over $3,800 in Grants for the Region

Paddle Antrim announced it will award $3,835 to two projects that benefit Northern Michigan’s waterways through its Ripple Effect Mini Grant Program. “Our Ripple Effect grant program provides a wonderful way for us to expand our impact by funding projects that support our mission of protecting our waterways and connecting people to these amazing waters through paddling” says Deana Jerdee, Paddle Antrim’s Executive Director. The Village of Bellaire was awarded… Read More »


Paddle Antrim offers abundant paddling experiences this summer in Northern Michigan

Bellaire, MI – Paddling is becoming an even more popular recreational activity and Paddle Antrim is offering many ways for people to get out on the water this year.  “We want to get more people out on the water for a fun and safe experience this summer,” said Deana Jerdee, Paddle Antrim Executive Director. “From relaxed paddles to classes to large festivals – there is something for everyone.” Paddle Antrim… Read More »