Family Friendly • 2 Hours • Kayak with a tour guide to see Kelleys Island’s natural treasures!
A two-hour, family-friendly guided kayak from the Kelleys Island State Park launch that brings you up close to the island’s dramatic glacial grooves, limestone ledges, and shoreline birdlife. Small groups and local guides make this an easy, educational introduction to open-water paddling on Lake Erie.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
2 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for people with basic mobility; participants should be able to sit and paddle for two hours with short rest breaks
Wildlife
History
The island’s glacial grooves are direct evidence of the last ice age’s movement across Devonian limestone and draw connections to Indigenous use of the island and later settler industry.
Conservation
Guides emphasize leave-no-trace shoreline practices and avoiding nesting sites; limit shore landings and pack out all trash.
Family Friendly • 2 Hours • Kayak with a tour guide to see Kelleys Island’s natural treasures!
Arrive Early by Ferry
Plan ferry arrival times to allow 20–30 minutes for check-in and walking gear to the state park kayak launch.
Wear Water Shoes
Rocky entry and exit points are common—sturdy water shoes protect feet and make launches safer.
Protect Electronics
Stow phones and cameras in a small dry bag to keep them safe from spray and accidental submersion.
Respect Nesting Areas
Maintain distance from shorelines where birds are nesting; guides will point out sensitive zones.
USCG-approved life jacket
Required safety gear and usually provided, but bring your own for best fit.
summer
Water shoes
Protects feet during rocky launches and helps with traction on wet surfaces.
summer
Broad-spectrum sunscreen
Lake reflections increase UV exposure even on overcast days.
summer
Small dry bag
Keeps phone, snacks, and layers dry during the paddle.
summer