Saturday, June 7 is National Trails Day, and what better way to celebrate than by paddling a route on the Chain of Lakes Water Trail — Michigan’s first officially designated Pure Michigan Water Trail! This 100+ mile network of navigable lakes and rivers winds through stunning northern Michigan scenery, offering opportunities for paddlers of all experience levels to connect with nature, community, and the water itself.
To help you get out on the water, we’re highlighting some of our favorite paddle routes—from family-friendly loops to natural-area explorations and accessible launches. Whether you’re new to paddling or a seasoned kayaker, there’s a perfect route waiting for you.
Accessible Paddle Route
Rotary Park (Elk Rapids) to Milton Township Waterfront Park
5.3 miles | ~2.5 hours | Intermediate
This beautiful, open-water route begins at the accessible Rotary Park launch in Elk Rapids and head south down Elk River following it around Meguzee Point and then north along the western shore of Elk Lake south to Milton Township Waterfront Park, another accessible landing with great amenities. Along the way, enjoy stunning views of sparkling blue water.
Looking for a shorter trip? Try an out-and-back paddle from either Rotary Park or Milton Township for a customizable experience. As a bonus, launching from Milton Township allows you to paddle north to the Kewadin Wetlands Nature Sanctuary, a kayak-only destination that offers a quiet escape into nature (details below!).
Family-Friendly Paddles
Intermediate River: Richardi Park (Bellaire) to Intermediate Lake (Out-and-Back)
3 miles | ~1.5–2 hours | Beginner
This relaxing paddle along the Intermediate River starts and ends at Richardi Park, a family-friendly location with parking, restrooms, potable water, a playground, swimming beach, and easy access to downtown Bellaire. Paddle to the mouth of Intermediate Lake and back, enjoying calm waters, wildlife sightings, and a peaceful, slow current—perfect for families or beginners.
Ellsworth Lake Out-and-Back
3 miles | ~1.5–2 hours | Beginner
This scenic route offers more of an open-water feel but remains fairly protected from the wind on the narrow Ellsworth Lake in the Upper Chain. Launch from Ellsworth River Park (just below Wooden Shoe Campground) in the Village of Ellsworth. River Park features a sandy beach, restrooms, a playground, and a picnic area. It also hosts an on-demand kayak rental kiosk by Breezeway Paddle Sports—just download their app to rent a single or double kayak without transporting your own equipment.
Natural Area Paddle Routes
For a wilder and quieter paddling experience, explore the unique beauty of the region’s natural areas. These routes take you through protected wetlands and preserves, showcasing the biodiversity and conservation efforts that make this water trail so special.
Kewadin Wetlands Nature Sanctuary
Access from Milton Township Waterfront Park
Launch from Milton Township Waterfront Park’s accessible kayak launch and paddle about a half mile along Elk Lake’s eastern shoreline to reach the Kewadin Wetlands, a 41-acre sanctuary managed by the Grand Traverse Regional Land Conservancy (GTRLC). Protected since 1995, this area includes over 2,600 feet of undeveloped shoreline and harbors exceptional biodiversity. The wetlands support the health of Elk Lake’s ecosystem and are best viewed from the water—landing is not recommended due to the fragile terrain.
Make it a quick 1.5-mile out-and-back or extend your trip by continuing south along the eastern shoreline.
Grass River Natural Area
Cottage Drive Park to Clam Lake DNR Access
7 miles | ~3 hours | Intermediate
This scenic paddle travels through southern Lake Bellaire and the winding waters of the Grass River, with much of the surrounding land protected by the Grass River Natural Area. Plan a stop at their newly designed kayak launch to stretch your legs and explore the renovated boardwalks, which wind through wetland habitats teeming with wildlife.
The shuttle between the launch and landing is less than two miles, making this a convenient and memorable adventure.
St. Clair Lake–Six Mile Lake Natural Area
Six Mile Lake DNR Access to River Park (Ellsworth)
4.7 miles | ~2 hours | Intermediate
Paddle the narrow waters of Six Mile Lake and St. Clair Lake, part of a quiet stretch of the water trail with more than a mile of protected shoreline. A new launch at the natural area—thanks to GTRLC and Little Traverse Conservancy (LTC)—offers improved access and a great rest stop along the way.
Finish your paddle in the Village of Ellsworth at River Park, a convenient and scenic endpoint. Be aware: during high water, a portage is required at the culvert between St. Clair Lake and Ellsworth Lake.
Celebrate Trails on Water
This National Trails Day, celebrate not just trails on land—but trails on water. As Michigan’s first Pure Michigan Water Trail, the Chain of Lakes Water Trail invites you to explore, relax, and connect with the landscapes and communities that make this region so special.
Whether you’re gliding past a nature preserve, paddling to a downtown dock for ice cream, or just taking in the views, every paddle helps support the stewardship of our treasured waterways.
Learn more about caring for our lakes and paddling safely at www.paddleantrim.com/chain-of-lakes-water-trail/etiquette-and-safety/.