Explore the Sturgeon River with inflatable Kayak-Tubes on an exciting trip from Big Bear Adventures in Indian River, Michigan. Discover a unique blend of comfort, control, and nature fun!
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
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Difficulty
moderate
Duration
2–3 hours
Fitness Level
Participants should be in moderate physical shape with basic upper body strength and endurance for paddling and maneuvering the tube.
Wildlife
History
The Sturgeon River has been a vital waterway for local Ojibwe communities for centuries, used for fishing and transportation.
Conservation
Big Bear Adventures actively promotes Leave No Trace principles to protect the delicate river ecosystem and minimize human impact.
Big Bear Adventures
Explore the Sturgeon River with inflatable Kayak-Tubes on an exciting trip from Big Bear Adventures in Indian River, Michigan. Discover a unique blend of comfort, control, and nature fun!
Big Bear Adventures is based in Indian River, Michigan, offering a range of river and off-road experiences on the Sturgeon River and nearby lakes. The outfit provides guided and self-guided options that serve families, groups, and advanced paddlers.
Trip options include family raft trips in stable 5- or 7-person rafts that conclude at Burt Lake State Park; challenging “Mid-Section” kayak runs such as Rondo to N. White Road and Wolverine to N. White Road (the latter noted as a 3.5-hour option); traditional and steerable Kayak-Tube experiences with heavy-duty fins; and guided Side‑by‑Side off-roading tours through local trails. Rentals include haul-it-yourself single kayaks, sit-in and sit-on kayaks, and tubes with paddles and lifejackets provided when noted.
Shuttle and spotting services transport personal canoes and kayaks to recommended put-ins and are supported by local facilities and route knowledge. Big Bear Adventures emphasizes safe, accessible river access, teamwork-focused raft navigation, and a selection of trip difficulty levels from beginner-friendly tubing to advanced mid-section runs. Reservation details, exact start times, equipment lists, and booking policies are provided on The Adventure Collective listing. Big Bear Adventures offers multiple ways to explore Northern Michigan waterways and trails while relying on local shuttle support, a variety of rental gear, and clearly described route options for both families and experienced paddlers.
Location
Indian River, MI
Base for Sturgeon River trips
Tours Offered
10 unique trips
Rafting, kayaking, tubing, off-roading
Guided Options
Guided & Self‑Guided
Guides and haul-it-yourself rentals available
Trip Lengths
Variable (3.5 hrs noted)
Includes a 3.5-hour mid-section trip
Reserve raft trips, mid-section kayaks, tubes, rentals, or guided Side‑by‑Side tours in Indian River, Michigan — easy booking through The Adventure Collective.
Wear Water Shoes for Protection
The riverbed can have slippery rocks and occasional sharp objects, so water shoes improve grip and protect your feet.
Bring a Waterproof Bag
Keep your valuables and snacks dry by using a waterproof bag for the duration of your tube trip.
Paddle Efficiently with Your Arms
Use controlled arm paddling to steer and maintain speed easily, especially in sharper bends of the river.
Stay Hydrated
Even on cool days, staying hydrated is important, so bring plenty of water with you on the trip.
Water Shoes
Protects feet on rocky riverbeds and provides better traction.
summer
Light Waterproof Jacket
Keeps you dry from splashes and light rain during changing weather.
spring
Sun Hat
Provides shade and protects from sun exposure on sunny stretches.
summer
Dry Bag
Keeps your phone, keys, and snacks dry and protected during the trip.