THE ADVENTURE COLLECTIVE® · Independent discovery and booking for outdoor travel
Discover a rare 90-minute paddling adventure on Michigan’s Boardman River, featuring light rapids, cedar forests, and abundant wildlife. Perfect for nature lovers seeking both excitement and tranquility.
Discover a rare 90-minute paddling adventure on Michigan’s Boardman River, featuring light rapids, cedar forests, and abundant wildlife. Perfect for nature lovers seeking both excitement and tranquility.
Book with The River Outfitters
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by The River Outfitters · Traverse City, Michigan
Experience the Boardman River Experience, a 90-minute private paddling trip offered by The River Outfitters in Traverse City, Michigan. This unique journey invites paddlers to explore a river that has been largely inaccessible to the public for over a century. As you glide gently through the serene cedar forest and navigate light rapids, you’ll witness a stunning array of northern Michigan’s natural beauty. From crystal-clear waters to vibrant wildlife, this paddling adventure blends excitement with peacefulness, making it ideal for both beginners and experienced paddlers. The route highlights the ecological richness of the area and offers an unforgettable way to connect with Michigan’s outdoors. Whether you're eager for a thrill or looking to unwind amidst nature, the Boardman River provides a one-of-a-kind outdoor escape perfectly timed to showcase the seasonal colors and wildlife activity. Plus, The River Outfitters provides expert guides and top-quality equipment, ensuring a safe and smooth experience on the water. This adventure not only celebrates the joy of paddling but also the reopening of this ecological gem after a hundred years of limited access, giving paddlers a rare opportunity to explore a historically significant river stretch.
easy.
90 minutes.
Suitable for individuals with a basic level of fitness; minimal exertion required for paddling light rapids.
No prior experience is needed; guides provide instruction, making it suitable for beginners.
Yes, all paddlers are required to wear provided personal flotation devices for safety.
Morning departures typically offer calm waters and fewer crowds for a more serene experience.
The experience uses outfitter-provided kayaks and gear to ensure safety and quality; outside equipment is not permitted.
Children 8 years and older can participate, but all must be comfortable in the water and wear life jackets.
Guests often spot herons, kingfishers, turtles, and occasionally river otters along the route.
The Boardman River was historically a vital resource for native communities and early settlers but was largely inaccessible for a century due to private land ownership.
Efforts by local organizations aim to restore native habitats and maintain water quality, making the river experience both educational and environmentally responsible.
The River Outfitters is a Traverse City outfitter specializing in bike and paddlesport rentals around Boardman Lake and the TART Trail. The company serves families, solo adventurers, and groups with timed options from one-hour rentals to full-day, 24-hour bike rentals and multi-day paddlesport packages. The fleet includes comfortable hybrids, E‑Bikes, sit-on-top Jackson Kayak Riviera kayaks, and paddleboards. Offerings listed include 1 Hour Bike Rentals, Half Day and Full Day Bike Rentals, 1 Hour and Half Day Paddlesport Rentals, Full Day and Multi-Day Paddlesport Rentals, a Half Day Fun Pass, Water Carpet rentals, and 24 Hour Bike Rentals. Many bike rentals are eligible for doorstep delivery, making it easy to start a TART Trail ride without parking hassles. Boardman Lake renters benefit from free parking. The Half Day Fun Pass pairs four hours of biking with paddling on the river and includes expert support and basic orientation for beginners. Equipment is inspected and maintained between rentals to ensure reliable performance, and staff provide route recommendations and safety briefings tailored to rider and paddler experience. Booking is available online or by phone with flexible pickup and return windows to suit day trips and extended adventures. Clear instructions, comfortable gear, and local knowledge combine to make The River Outfitters a reliable choice for exploring Traverse City by bike or boat. The company emphasizes eco-friendly travel and provides recommendations for scenic loops, picnic spots, and low-traffic routes ideal for families and first-time paddlers exploring Boardman Lake. Seasonal promotions and group rates are available.
Book with The River Outfitters