Beaver Island Archipelago

Skill level: beginner through advanced

Beaver Island has an outrageous history, good fishing, a couple of good restaurants and some very interesting paddling opportunities. Although not appropriate for first-time paddlers (remember, we’re in the middle of Lake Michigan), it is a relaxed pace trip that offers some great exploring to nearby Garden and High Islands, some opportunities to learn surf paddling skills and a really fine camping experience. Interesting European and Native American history (including an active graveyard), warm shallow waters and fine hiking trails all await you. Just bring your clothes, sleeping gear and a little money for a fine breakfast before we depart on the ferry.

Day 1) Meet at the ferry dock in Charlevoix no later than 7:30 am for the departure on the Emerald Isle. After we get off the ferry, we'll pack our boats and head out to a nice wilderness campsite on Garden Island; weather permitting.

Day 2 - 4) After a hearty camp breakfast, we'll do some exploring on the island, find the spirit houses in the Indian graveyard and get oriented. Explore islands, swim, paddle the crinkly edges, surf, eat lots of great food, learn lots about paddling, tell lies--the usual good stuff that goes on during our trips.

Day 5) After being inducted into the crack of dawn squad, we'll do an early morning paddle out to breakfast in James Bay then on to the ferry for the 11:30 am ride back to Charlevoix. After a great whitefish lunch in town, we’ll have you headed back toward home by early afternoon.

Dates: By Arrangement

Cost: $795

Trip fee includes: expert instructor guides, all group gear (tents, kitchen gear, safety and camp gear), camping fees, maps, dry bags and gourmet backcountry fare. In some cases the trip may also include a night's lodging prior and post back-country experience.

You do need a touring kayak at least 14 feet long, with front and rear bulkheads. High performance expedition-equipped rentals are available from us for $100 for 4 day trips and $150 for one week trips with prior reservation. They include PFD, carbon hybrid paddle, sprayskirt and pump. We will transport your rental boat for you. We offer a variety of sizes and models from Valley, Wilderness Systems, Hurricane and P&H...all drop skegs.

Uncommon Adventures PO Box 254 Beulah, Michigan 49617 Map It Toll Free: 1-866-882-5525       Local: (231) 882-5525 e-mail: info@uncommonadv.com