easy
3–4 hours
Suitable for individuals with basic fitness; ability to paddle for a few hours is recommended.
Discover Marquette’s rugged Lake Superior coast from the water with Half Day Kayak Rentals. Perfect for all skill levels, this adventure offers guided, accessible paddling through stunning sandstone cliffs and serene coves.
Up to 5.5 Hours
Embark on an unforgettable kayak adventure with convenient delivery and pick-up at stunning locations like Teal Lake and the Chocolay River. Enjoy complimentary amenities, explore picturesque landscapes, picnic on islands, and fish in serene waters. Perfect for all skill levels, this experience promises relaxation and excitement in the great outdoors.
Pre-Paddle
Delivery
During
End of Rental
Teal Lake: Just blocks away from downtown Negaunee, Teal lake is a popular fishing lake for pike but is also great for swimming. Start your paddle from the newly built beach and paddle along the north side of the lake where there are many hiking trails, picnic spots, and a “cliffs” to jump into the water from.
Greenwood Reservoir: One of our favorites, the Greenwood Reservoir is located 30 minutes out of Marquette (15 from Ishpeming), but is definitely worth the drive. This lake has countless islands and peninsulas and is completely surrounded by woods with only a few camps (cabins for you non-yoopers). The Greenwood is great for swimming, fishing, hiking, and picnicking on the island of your choice. Like most U.P lakes, there are pike, perch, bass, walleye, and trout in this lake.
Chocolay River: One of our favorites, the Chocolay River features a slow current and many spots to stop and hang out. This river flows through the woods and ends at the beach on Lake Superior. This trip is perfect for groups both large and small and can be done in as quickly as 2 hours although we recommend taking a half day trip so you can take your time and enjoy the sights. This river is also great for fishing!
Tourist Park Basin: The Tourist Park Basin is a part of the Dead River and can be accessed via Marquette’s Tourist Park Campground. This lake features several great picnic spots, easy access to surrounding hiking trails, and close proximity to the City of Marquette. Paddle to the west end of the lake to reach the Dead River and explore it’s winding waters, islands, and a few rapids. The rapids are coming from above so there is no danger in entering them as you would have to paddle up the rapids (which would be very difficult).
Lake Superior’s weather can change quickly; always review the local forecast before heading out.
Life jackets are mandatory and provided; wear them at all times for safety.
Protect your essentials and electronics with waterproof bags to keep them dry on the water.
If new to kayaking, begin your trip in sheltered harbor areas before heading into the open lake.
Marquette’s waterfront was historically a 19th-century iron ore shipping hub, shaping the city’s industrial heritage.
Local outfitters adhere to leave-no-trace principles and support Lake Superior shoreline clean-up efforts to protect this pristine ecosystem.
Wind- and water-resistant jacket useful for chilly spring paddles.
spring specific
Protect feet and provide traction from rocky shores and in-water sections.
summer specific
A fleece or wool base layer helps stay warm during cooler autumn outings.
fall specific
Keep hands warm when paddling in cold temperatures on icy days.
winter specific