Mix paddling and pedaling on a 4-hour rental that puts Boardman Lake and nearby trails within reach. Choose kayaks, SUPs, or cruisers for an easy, customizable half-day of lakeside exploration.
Mix paddling and pedaling on a 4-hour rental that puts Boardman Lake and nearby trails within reach. Choose kayaks, SUPs, or cruisers for an easy, customizable half-day of lakeside exploration.
A flat morning on Boardman Lake opens like a page: low sun brushing the water, ospreys quartering overhead and paddles blinking as they lift. Launch from Logan’s Landing at Medalie Roadside Park and you’re immediately in easy water—calm coves that encourage a slow rhythm and the occasional curious fish. The breeze off Grand Traverse Bay teases the surface, daring you to explore farther.
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by The River Outfitters · Traverse City, Michigan
A flat morning on Boardman Lake opens like a page: low sun brushing the water, ospreys quartering overhead and paddles blinking as they lift. Launch from Logan’s Landing at Medalie Roadside Park and you’re immediately in easy water—calm coves that encourage a slow rhythm and the occasional curious fish. The breeze off Grand Traverse Bay teases the surface, daring you to explore farther.
The lake sits within the glacially carved basin that defines Traverse City. Once an industrial corridor, the Boardman’s shores now reflect restoration efforts—dam removals and improved habitat have remade the river into a place for recreation and wildlife. The town’s fruit-farm heritage and lakeside culture mean summer weekends hum with cyclists and paddlers trading routes and tips.
Practically: the rental is a 4-hour pass that lets you mix kayaks, stand-up paddleboards, and cruisers or hybrid bikes. Expect mostly flat, paddle-friendly water; the Bay can be choppier if wind picks up. Typical circuits around Boardman Lake range from short 1–3 mile loops to longer 5–8 mile outings if you include nearby launches and Bay crossings. Equipment supplied includes life jacket, paddle, and basic instruction—deliveries are available within ~10 miles for an extra fee.
Plan for sun and wind: bring a reusable water bottle, layered clothing, and footwear that can get wet. Check weather and book early for weekend slots; cancellation is permitted up to 24 hours prior. Whether you want a relaxed cruise, a sunrise SUP, or a casual bike-and-paddle combo, the Half-Day Fun Pass is a flexible way to sample Traverse City’s water-and-trail scene.
No—basic instruction and fitting are provided; novices can stick to calm areas of Boardman Lake or choose a tandem kayak.
Yes—the Half-Day Fun Pass is designed to mix and match kayaks, SUPs, and bikes within your booked four-hour window, subject to availability.
Deliveries and pickups to public launches or rentals within roughly 10 miles are offered for an extra fee—book ahead to secure this service.
Full refund if you cancel at least 24 hours before your scheduled start; bookings may be canceled by the outfitter in bad weather.
The River Outfitters operates guided outdoor trips and adventures with an emphasis on safety, stewardship, and memorable experiences.




A flat morning on Boardman Lake opens like a page: low sun brushing the water, ospreys quartering overhead and paddles blinking as they lift. Launch from Logan’s Landing at Medalie Roadside Park and you’re immediately in easy water—calm coves that encourage a slow rhythm and the occasional curious fish. The breeze off Grand Traverse Bay teases the surface, daring you to explore farther.
A flat morning on Boardman Lake opens like a page: low sun brushing the water, ospreys quartering overhead and paddles blinking as they lift. Launch from Logan’s Landing at Medalie Roadside Park and you’re immediately in easy water—calm coves that encourage a slow rhythm and the occasional curious fish. The breeze off Grand Traverse Bay teases the surface, daring you to explore farther.
The lake sits within the glacially carved basin that defines Traverse City. Once an industrial corridor, the Boardman’s shores now reflect restoration efforts—dam removals and improved habitat have remade the river into a place for recreation and wildlife. The town’s fruit-farm heritage and lakeside culture mean summer weekends hum with cyclists and paddlers trading routes and tips.
Practically: the rental is a 4-hour pass that lets you mix kayaks, stand-up paddleboards, and cruisers or hybrid bikes. Expect mostly flat, paddle-friendly water; the Bay can be choppier if wind picks up. Typical circuits around Boardman Lake range from short 1–3 mile loops to longer 5–8 mile outings if you include nearby launches and Bay crossings. Equipment supplied includes life jacket, paddle, and basic instruction—deliveries are available within ~10 miles for an extra fee.
Plan for sun and wind: bring a reusable water bottle, layered clothing, and footwear that can get wet. Check weather and book early for weekend slots; cancellation is permitted up to 24 hours prior. Whether you want a relaxed cruise, a sunrise SUP, or a casual bike-and-paddle combo, the Half-Day Fun Pass is a flexible way to sample Traverse City’s water-and-trail scene.