Paddle peaceful waters and discover unique wildlife on the Mink River Estuary Eco-Tour near Rowleys Bay, Wisconsin. Experience expert-guided exploration of an important wetland sanctuary with stunning Lake Michigan views.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
2–3 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most people with basic paddle skills and average mobility.
Wildlife
History
The Mink River Estuary has long been an essential habitat for indigenous peoples and early settlers who relied on its rich natural resources.
Conservation
Ongoing efforts focus on protecting this rare wetland ecosystem from development and pollution to maintain its biodiversity.
Kayak Guide Justin, LLC.
Paddle peaceful waters and discover unique wildlife on the Mink River Estuary Eco-Tour near Rowleys Bay, Wisconsin. Experience expert-guided exploration of an important wetland sanctuary with stunning Lake Michigan views.
Kayak Guide Justin, LLC. is a Sturgeon Bay, Wisconsin kayak outfitter offering guided paddling trips across Door County. Led by a certified Wisconsin Master Naturalist on select tours, the company provides custom kayak tours and a curated schedule of themed excursions that highlight local ecology, geology, and history.
Tours range from half-day adventures to three-hour trips, including excursions to Rock Island State Park, Newport State Park, Peninsula State Park, Cave Point, Whitefish Dunes, Cana Island, and the Mink River Estuary. Highlights across trips include guided interpretation of limestone cliffs and sea caves, exploration of ancient fossils, viewing of historic structures such as the Thordarson Boathouse, and visits to the Cana Island Lighthouse. Several tours incorporate lakeside picnics, opportunities to see shipwreck sites such as the Schooner Fleetwing, and seasonal sunset paddles in Ellison Bay.
The business emphasizes personalized experiences with custom-designed itineraries that match skill level and interests, from challenging routes to relaxed family outings and celebration paddles. Safety and local knowledge are core priorities: guides provide route planning, on-water instruction, and environmental interpretation rooted in regional natural history. Small-group formats and certified naturalist guidance support educational experiences like the Mink River Estuary eco-tour, which focuses on wetland ecology and species observation.
Kayak Guide Justin, LLC. serves paddlers seeking an immersive Door County kayaking experience, combining outdoor adventure, education, and scenic exploration from a Sturgeon Bay launch base. Booking options include private charters and scheduled departures during peak season, with equipment and logistics arranged for each trip. Experienced local guidance.
Location
Sturgeon Bay, WI
Door County launch point
Certified Guide
Wisconsin Master Naturalist
Guided interpretation and ecology
Tours Offered
9
Diverse routes and durations
Tour Lengths
Half-day & 3-hour
Options for every schedule
Reserve a custom or scheduled tour from Sturgeon Bay and explore Rock Island, Cave Point, Cana Island, and more with certified naturalist guidance.
Wear water-resistant footwear
Expect wet landings and shallow water paddling, so shoes that can handle getting wet are best.
Bring insect repellent
Mosquitoes and other insects can be active, especially during warmer months, so protection is recommended.
Use biodegradable sunscreen
Protect your skin and the environment with reef-friendly sunscreen to avoid harming the estuary's delicate ecosystem.
Follow guide instructions carefully
The estuary is a protected area, so staying on designated paths and in kayaks helps preserve habitats.
Personal flotation device (PFD)
Safety is priority; a PFD is required and ensures protection on the water.
Waterproof dry bag
Keeps electronics and valuables dry while paddling through wet environments.
Layered clothing
Wear layers to adjust for cool mornings transitioning to warmer afternoons.
spring
Insect repellent
Protects against mosquitoes and biting insects active during summer paddling.
summer