The Paddling Trail in Michigan That’s Better Than Most Hikes

I like spending a day on a hiking trail as much as the next person, but when the weather gets warm and humid, and the bugs start to swarm, sweating through the woods can lose its appeal. Sometimes, you want to enjoy the outdoors without wearing out your legs and swatting mosquitoes. So if you're searching for a way to take in the scenery without fighting insects while climbing up and down on a footpath through the woods, this paddling trail in Michigan makes an excellent alternative. Located in the northwest corner of the Lower Peninsula, the Chain of Lakes Water Trail offers miles of clear water and green shorelines—and a more relaxing adventure than a sweaty walk in the woods.

Where This Paddling Trail Is and What Makes It Unique

The Chain of Lakes Water Trail winds through Antrim County, connecting 14 lakes and rivers over the course of more than 100 miles. This means you can make your adventure on this flatwater trail as long or as short as you like.

In the Upper Chain, you'll find smaller, quieter lakes and narrow rivers with no-wake zones—ideal for beginners or anyone seeking a quiet float on stiller water. On the Lower Chain, the bodies of water are larger, including the deep, famously blue waters of Torch and Elk Lakes. With so much variety, you're sure to find the perfect paddling spots for your adventure.

Why It's Better Than a Traditional Hike

Michigan is certainly home to some of the best hiking trails in the U.S.—like the North Country National Scenic Trail—but spending time on this water trail offers what I think is a more relaxing kind of adventure. Instead of scrambling over rocks and roots, you sit back and let your paddle guide you over the water. It’s a fun, low-impact way to enjoy being outdoors while giving your legs a bit of a break.

Hiking requires constant attention to your footing, but on a flatwater trip, you typically drift and paddle as much or as little as you like (if the wind cooperates). Bring a cooler in your boat, and if you get too warm, you can slip into the water to cool yourself off. Out on a hike or cruising one of the scenic bike trails in Michigan, you don't always have such options.

What You'll See Along the Way

The scenery here is stunning. On the smaller upper lakes, you’ll glide past thick cedar swamps and quiet shorelines. The wildlife viewing is excellent, too—I always keep an eye out for diving loons, bald eagles on the hunt, and turtles slipping from their log perches if you paddle too close.

As you move into the lower lakes, the water turns an almost-turquoise. The sandy bottom makes it feel more like you’re floating across a Caribbean lagoon than a Midwestern lake. Along the route, you can haul out for breaks at parks and in towns like Bellaire to grab lunch or a cold drink before heading back out.

Since the trail covers a large area, you'll want to visit the official Chain of Lakes Water Trail website to pick your access points and download a map before heading out. Also, be sure to check the weather forecast before you put your boat in the water. Planning ahead will make sure your paddling adventure goes off without a hitch as you enjoy some of the best canoeing and kayaking in Michigan.