Join the Paddle Antrim Festival and kayak from Ellsworth to Torch Lake in Bellaire, Michigan. Enjoy scenic waterways, easy kayak pickups, and a memorable two-day paddling adventure.
Join the Paddle Antrim Festival and kayak from Ellsworth to Torch Lake in Bellaire, Michigan. Enjoy scenic waterways, easy kayak pickups, and a memorable two-day paddling adventure.
Book with Paddles & Pedals
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by Paddles & Pedals · Bellaire, Michigan
Experience the beauty of Michigan’s waterways with the Paddle Antrim Single Kayak adventure offered by Paddles & Pedals in Bellaire. This two-day kayaking festival lets you paddle from Ellsworth to the pristine Torch Lake, covering some of the most scenic parts of Antrim County. The route is designed to be accessible and enjoyable for paddlers of various skill levels, with convenient kayak pick-up points along the way to ensure a smooth experience. Along the journey, you’ll glide through crystal-clear waters surrounded by vibrant forested shorelines, offering ample opportunities for wildlife sightings and peaceful reflection. Paddle Antrim is more than just a kayak trip — it’s a community event where you can connect with fellow outdoor enthusiasts and enjoy the natural charm of Northern Michigan. Be sure to register with Paddle Antrim before reserving your kayak to secure your spot in this popular event. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing paddle or a refreshing outdoor challenge, this private kayaking experience is a perfect way to immerse yourself in Michigan’s natural beauty and waterscapes.
moderate.
6–8 hours over two days.
Suitable for those with moderate fitness; some paddling endurance is needed, but the route has calm waters and frequent rest points.
Basic kayaking skills are recommended, but the calm waters and support stations make it accessible for beginners willing to learn.
Kayak pickups are conveniently located along the route, including in Ellsworth and Torch Lake areas, making it easy to join or exit the trip.
Participants should be at least 12 years old and able to paddle independently or with adult supervision.
It is advised to monitor weather updates closely; staff can assist with alternate routes or early pickups if conditions become unsafe.
Yes, kayak rentals and paddles are included when you reserve through Paddles & Pedals.
You’re welcome to join with your own kayak, but make sure to register with Paddle Antrim and arrange suitable transport and logistics.
Torch Lake has long been a central part of the Antrim County area, historically serving local Indigenous communities for fishing and transportation.
The Paddle Antrim Festival promotes 'Leave No Trace' principles to protect the fragile lake ecosystem and surrounding forests.
Paddles & Pedals is a rental outfitter based in Bellaire, Michigan, offering a range of bikes, e-bikes, kayaks, and stand-up paddleboards for local exploration. The business provides flexible rental durations from half-day to week-long options, letting visitors tailor trips to their schedule. Mountain and e-mountain bikes are available in multiple frame sizes — including small, medium, large, and extra-large — with models matched to rider height for comfortable trail riding. Kayak options include sit-in and sit-on-top single kayaks available for pick up, self-transport, or delivery to the customer’s location. Delivery is offered for single kayaks, and festival logistics include pickup points along the Paddle Antrim route; festival registration with Paddle Antrim is required before reserving a kayak. Stand-up paddleboards are available for pick up or self-transport in half-day to week rentals. Paddles & Pedals serves routes and natural areas such as Glacial Hills, Destination Bellaire, Grass River Natural Area, Torch Lake, and the stretch from Bellaire to Clam Lake. The Two Rivers intermediate paddle is a 3–4 hour route that requires a minimum of two kayaks and includes riverside docks along the way. The Standard Mountain Bike rental is suited for exploring Northern Michigan’s mountain trails. Equipment selection and rental options aim to simplify logistics so guests can focus on outdoor adventure. E-mountain bike options list specific size fits — Small (5'–5'8"), Medium (5'6"–5'11"), Large (5'10" and up), and X-Large (6'1"+), supporting comfortable rides on Glacial Hills trails. Two Rivers encourages groups for the minimum-two-kayak requirement.
Book with Paddles & Pedals