10 Reasons Fall Is The Best Time To Paddle Michigan’s Upper Peninsula

July 22, 2021

View overlooking lake surrounded by woods. — Feature photo: Josh Koyen // @chaseslight

While most visitors to Michigan’s Upper Peninsula plan their paddling adventures during the summer months, fall is a uniquely spectacular and rewarding time to dip your paddle in the diverse waters of this beautiful region.

Enjoy picture-perfect fall colors, abundant wildlife and comfortable weather while taking advantage of fewer crowds, affordable prices, and the amazing range of canoeing and kayaking in Upper Peninsula Michigan.

When does fall start in the Upper Peninsula? The first day of fall is typically September 21, but often the weather has begun to change by the middle of the month with crisp days and cooler nights. Meanwhile, lakes Superior, Huron and Michigan retain their summer warmth well into the season, moderating temperatures across the U.P. This means you have much of September, all of October, and into November to get out and explore!

Grab a cozy sweater and a hot apple cider, and settle in to read our favorite reasons fall is the perfect time for kayaking, paddleboarding and canoeing in Upper Michigan.

[ View all paddling adventures in Michigan in the Paddling Trip Guide ]

Bridal Veil Falls in fall season with bright orange foliage — Paddle out to Bridal Veil Falls. | Photo: Scott Matteson // @winfieldscottcreative

1 Fall colors

Each September, the forests of the Upper Peninsula begin to transform from vibrant greens to a patchwork of fiery orange, crimson red and golden yellow. Kayak and canoe trips in Upper Peninsula Michigan offer an unforgettable riot of color at this special time of year.

The changing leaves are just begging you to take a scenic paddle around Mackinac Island with Great Turtle Kayak Tours, see the majestic waterfalls of Tahquamenon Falls State Park or visit iconic Lake of the Clouds in Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park. Because these are top fall destinations, though, they do tend to get busy. Local outfitters are also one of the best sources of information for what you can expect paddling in the region.

If you are looking for a quiet wilderness experience, explore the tranquil lakes of the Sylvania Wilderness with Sylvania Outfitters or take a journey down the Two-Hearted River with The Woods Canoe & Kayak Rental. The fall colors are just as lovely, but chances are you’ll have them all to yourself.

Fall leaves lining a river with waterfall. — Tahquamenon Falls is even more beautiful when framed by fall foliage. | Photo: Jeff Wilkinson // @jeffreywilk

The fall foliage is beautiful no matter where you’re kayaking or canoeing in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. Fall colors typically peak the last week of September and the first two weeks of October, with colors lingering later along the Great Lakes shorelines. Before you head out, check the current weather report and forecast for your paddling destination, and track leaf color change across the region using this Weekly Fall Color Report.

You can also take your pick of these 9 Incredible Paddling Experiences to Have on Michigan’s Upper Peninsula—which are, of course, all the more gorgeous in the fall!

2 Shoulder season prices

Choosing to paddle in the U.P. during the shoulder season puts you right in the travel sweet spot.

Prices are often lower than they are during the peak summer season and the weather is still perfect for kayaking and canoeing Upper Peninsula Michigan.

Take advantage of potential savings in your accommodations, equipment rentals, tour bookings and entrance fees.

Photo from point of view from kayaker in a sea kayak, paddling towards rock arch. — Normally a bustling area, you’ll have the Pictured Rocks Lakeshore all to yourself in the fall. | Photo: Courtesy Upper Peninsula Travel & Recreation Association

3 Fewer crowds

After the Labor Day weekend, crowds thin and you won’t be sharing the rivers and shorelines with nearly as many other boaters.

As colder days and harsher weather start to move in, hearty, well-equipped paddlers are who you’ll find on the water. Fewer crowds mean more time and space for you to engage with your surroundings at a pace that suits you. Leave your itinerary open and embrace opportunities to explore.

When you aren’t worried about full campgrounds, sold-out experiences, or having to jockey for position when seeing the sights, you can spend more time enjoying the actual paddling experience.

a group of river rafters pose in a yellow raft in front of fall foliage — Take a fall rafting trip down the Menominee River. | Photo: True North Outpost

Take advantage of the quiet by joining a guided kayak tour with Paddling Michigan, Pictured Rocks Kayaking or Northern Waters Adventures for a full or half-day of unforgettable sea cave and waterfall viewing in the incomparable Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore. Or explore fabulous sandstone cliffs, 19th-century shipwrecks and historic lighthouses with Paddling Michigan’s Grand Island Vacation Package.

For an adrenaline experience unlike anywhere else in the Midwest, descend the class III-IV rapids of the mighty Menominee River. This guided whitewater rafting trip culminates with a 10-foot waterfall in the legendary Piers Gorge. True North Outpost offers guided rafting and kayaking trips ranging from two hours to an overnight mini-expedition with island camping.

Our only advice is to call ahead to avoid disappointment. Many paddling businesses close after September.

Woman in hooded sweatshirt paddles kayak in front of mothership at Pictured Rocks in Michigan. — Enjoy milder temperatures when exploring in the fall. | Photo: Courtesy Upper Peninsula Travel & Recreation Association

4 Comfortable weather

Fall weather in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula is about as close to perfect as you can get. No sweltering summer heat, but still enough warmth and sunshine to get on the water and maybe even enjoy an invigorating dip.

There’s just the right amount of crispness in the air to enjoy bundling in blankets and sweaters around your post-paddle campfire. Don’t forget to consider a few extra days in your trip planning should you be bound to camp for a stretch of windy or wild weather.

And, perhaps best of all, the cooler, more comfortable fall weather in the U.P. means no more bugs!

Take that float down the Manistique River through Seney National Wildlife Refuge and camp riverside at Northland Outfitters or Big Cedar Campground without being eaten alive. Or paddle the AuTrain River as it twists and turns for 10 miles through immersive meanders in Hiawatha National Forest, and forget about swatting pesky mosquitoes.

Trees and rocks silhouetted against starry sky with northern lights. — Stargazing at the Keweenaw Dark Sky Park rarely disappoints. | Photo: Nate Bett // Keweenaw Mountain Lodge

5 Stargazing & northern lights

Upper Peninsula Michigan offers some of the finest northern lights viewing in the Lower 48, with stunning displays of aurora borealis peaking during the months of October and November.

To witness this breathtaking spectacle for yourself, you’ll need a bit of luck, a crisp, clear night, and a calm lake or bay with an open view of the northern horizon. Watching the swirling, shimmering curtains of green, white, purple and red reflected on the still waters around your canoe, kayak or paddleboard is an experience you’ll never forget.

Head to the dark shores and even darker skies of Lake Superior or Lake Huron for the best Northern Lights displays in the Upper Peninsula. Top locations include Drummond Island, where you can join a guided kayak day trip with Woods & Waters, and Miners Beach in Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore.

On the rugged and remote Keweenaw Peninsula, Copper Harbor is home to Michigan’s newest International Dark Sky Park. The park is headquartered at the Keweenaw Mountain Lodge, which opens its grounds at night to the public and offers stargazing workshops and events. By day, Copper Harbor’s Keweenaw Adventure Company leads guided kayak trips to picturesque waterfalls, lighthouses and sea cliffs.

Learn more about Seeing the Northern Lights in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, including viewing locations and aurora forecasting tips.

fishing rod in the bow of a canoe in Michigan's Upper Peninsula — Find peace and quiet. | Photo: Ronan Moynihan // @radioronan

6 Amazing fishing

There’s no better place to plan your fall fishing adventure than Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. With thousands of miles of cold, clear rivers and streams, expansive wildlife refuges and abundant access to public launches, the U.P. is a world-class destination for paddle anglers.

Pursue plentiful walleye, pike, perch, smallmouth and rock bass on the Manistique River or at the mouth of the Tahquamenon River. Paddle from the scenic Lower Falls in Tahquamenon Falls State Park to the river mouth at Lake Superior—rentals and shuttles are available from The Woods Canoe & Kayak Rental.

On Lake Michigan, Little Bay de Noc is a fall hotspot for migrating walleye and massive smallmouth bass. Contact Jack’s Charter Service for info on the best fishing locations and tactics. While you’re here wetting your line, don’t miss a scenic paddle around the Stonington Peninsula, home to 500-million-year-old fossils and a historic lighthouse.

Enjoy explosive fall walleye fishing on legendary Lake Gogebic or stalk trophy brook trout on the Fox River with Northland Outfitters. Catch fall colors and chinook salmon runs on the lovely AuTrain River with AuTrain River Adventures. On the Two-Hearted River, Pine Stump Junction Rentals offers guided salmon fishing excursions.

interior of a cozy cabin in Michigan's Upper Peninsula — Get cozy at Fresh Coast Cabins. | Photo: Amanda Taivalkoski // purenorthmedia.com

7 It’s super cozy

Fall is the perfect time to get cozy.

After an inspiring day on the water, retreat to an Instagram-worthy rental cottage or cabin where you can make the most of dropping temperatures and dwindling daylight with a roaring fire, warm blanket, good book, and hot mug of mocha or cider.

Perched on the most northern point of the Keweenaw Peninsula between Copper Harbor and Eagle Harbor, Fresh Coast Cabins offers 10 unique housekeeping cabins just steps from the beach and boasting endless, unobstructed views of the watery horizon. Can you say northern lights? The individually curated cabins and lack of cell service or WiFi provide an escape from the everyday.

See two of Lake Superior’s oldest and most picturesque lighthouses on a guided sea kayak tour of this spectacular coastline with Keweenaw Adventure Company. Guided trips offer the benefit of spending the day with a knowledgeable Lake Superior paddler. Afterward, settle into your super cozy home-away-from-home.

person puts their feet up in front of a campfire on a cloudy fall day — Enjoying the fall weather at Fresh Coast Cabins. | Photo: Hans Isaacson // hansisaacson.com

At Hessel Bay Sunset Cabins you can enjoy charming and comfortable housekeeping cabins overlooking a private sand beach and the beautiful Les Cheneaux Islands, an archipelago of 36 islands with miles of Lake Huron shoreline and bird-filled nature preserves. Enjoy these sheltered waters on a day of guided or self-guided Upper Peninsula Michigan kayaking with Woods & Waters in Hessel. Then wander the shops, bars and restaurants nestled in this scenic harbor town.

For a Victorian twist on classic cozy, book a stay in one of Mackinac Island’s gorgeous, century-old inns or B&Bs. The island is even more charming after dark, when the day-trippers sail away and your antique claw-foot tub invites an après-paddle soak. View Mackinac’s celebrated historic landmarks on a guided kayak or paddleboard trip with Great Turtle Kayak Tours.

Find more incredible places to get cozy in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula.

Male mallard duck stands on one foot on a partially submerged log. — Be sure to look around as you’re paddling as wildlife tends to be more active in the fall. | Photo: Patrick Downes // @patdwns

8 Wildlife migrations

The rugged and lightly populated landscapes and waterways of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula are a haven for wildlife, and fall is an exceptional time to encounter forest animals, birds and other creatures busily preparing for the coming winter. Fall in the U.P. also brings thousands of songbirds, raptors and waterfowl migrating south on ancient flight paths.

Enjoy a relaxing family float trip through the Seney National Wildlife Refuge, keeping a close watch for moose, deer, river otters, beavers and bald eagles, along with a host of other inhabitants. Northland Outfitters and Big Cedar Campground both offer camping and self-guided canoe and kayak trips, including equipment rental and shuttles.

In early September, Peninsula Point Lighthouse Park at the tip of Lake Michigan’s scenic Stonington Peninsula is the staging point for thousands of migrating monarch butterflies. The monarchs rest on this finger of land before winging across the open waters of Green Bay and onward nearly 2,000 miles to their winter home in the mountains of Mexico. Take a paddle along the limestone shoreline, and then climb the 40-foot light tower for an even better view.

Check off your bird-watching bucket list while kayaking Upper Michigan at Whitefish Point Bird Observatory. Michigan’s premier migration hotspot, Whitefish Point juts out into Lake Superior, acting as a natural flyway every spring and fall. See how many of the more than 340 recorded species you can spot among the wooded dunes and beaches at this beautiful site. Learn more about birding at Whitefish Point.

White and red building with lighthouse tower. — The Whitefish Point Light Station. | Photo: Courtesy Great Lakes Shipwreck Museum

While you’re here, don’t miss touring the stately grounds and buildings of the historic Whitefish Point Light Station, home to the world-class Great Lakes Shipwreck Museum. The museum’s emotionally haunting exhibits tell the story of Lake Superior’s shipwrecks and feared fall storms, including the renowned sinking of the SS Edmund Fitzgerald in November 1975.

Discover more birding hotspots in the Upper Peninsula.

9 Gaining an extra hour of sleep

Daylight Savings ends on the first Sunday in November, leading “Yoopers” (as residents of the U.P. are known) to set their clocks to “fall back” by one hour.

This means an extra hour of sleep—or an extra hour to spend enjoying the Upper Peninsula’s fall splendors. Take advantage of this bonus time by staying up a little later to gaze at the stars from your campsite, or use it to recover from an exciting day of fall color paddling.

two young women in a tandem kayak in front of a colorful cliff in Michigan — Arrived too early or too late for the colored leaves? There are still fall colors to be found along the Pictured Rocks Lakeshore. | Photo Courtesy: Northern Waters Adventures

10 Great escapes

With fewer visitors and so many incredible places to paddle in Upper Peninsula Michigan during the fall months, it’s easy to find your very own great escape.

Whether you’d like to relax and unwind or embark on the ultimate wilderness adventure, a must-see for paddlers who enjoy getting off the beaten path is Isle Royale National Park.

This spectacular 50-mile-long island in Lake Superior is surrounded by 450 barrier islands and was designated an International Biosphere Reserve in 1980. This is true wilderness, accessible only by ferry or seaplane, surrounded and shaped by the largest freshwater lake in the world. Navigate past lush forest and fjord-like bays by day, and listen for the bellow of moose and the howl of wolves after dark.

Lake Superior is known for its ability to conjure major storms and swell, and a study of the marine forecast is part of any trip to Isle Royale as well.

Pebble beach with pine trees along shore. — Caribou Island in Isle Royale National Park. | Photo: Carter Doyle // @medic.carter

Keweenaw Adventure Company offers kayak rentals and outfitting, including wetsuits for Superior’s cold water, located next to the Isle Royale ferry dock in Copper Harbor. Canoe, kayak and boat rentals are also available on the island in the main visitor’s hub of Rock Harbor.

Isle Royale National Park is open from April through October 31 with the fall season bringing an especially quiet and remote feeling to this sacred refuge. Kayak and camp on Lake Superior’s rugged coastline, or canoe and portage on peaceful inland lakes. A rustic lodge and 36 backcountry campgrounds mean you can linger as long as you like.

Fall is the best time to paddle in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula

The breathtaking natural beauty and fascinating historic sites of the Upper Peninsula are at their most unique and spectacular in the fall. Start with these 10 reasons fall is the best time to enjoy canoeing and kayaking in Upper Peninsula Michigan—then see how many more you can discover for yourself.

Beyond Gold: The Journey To Gender Equity In Canoe Slalom

Louise Stanway

July 22, 2021

Haley Daniels Tokyo-bound. | Photo: Dave Holland

Haley Daniels has spent half of her life training for one race. A race that, up until this year, didn’t exist.

The 30-year-old Canadian athlete has been competing in the national canoe slalom circuit for the past 13 years, fueled by a dream of someday stepping onto the Olympic podium. Seven world championships and multiple podium placements later, and with the 2021 Tokyo Olympics just around the corner, Haley’s dream is finally tangible.

With almost no funding, no access to female-specific boats and—most importantly—no category in the Olympics for women in canoe slalom, Haley’s journey has been painstakingly real. Working part-time jobs, writing sponsorship proposals and organizing fundraiser events have all been part of a roster of extracurricular activities integral to funding her journey. Balanced alongside over 40 hours of training per week, of course.

Her efforts have not gone unrewarded. At the 2021 Olympic Games this July, she and her dad, Kimberly Daniels, are set to make history: Haley as part of a pioneering cohort of female canoeists in the Olympics, and her dad as the first recorded transgender official on the Olympic judging panel.

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A post shared by Haley Daniels (@haleydanski)

The fight for gender equity in C1

Haley’s philosophy is: If you’re not turning heads, you’re not making a difference. “It was a catchy story when I first started advocating for women’s C1 more than half a decade ago. A few news outlets picked it up,” she said. “I had no access to funding, no athlete resources I could apply for. I was paying for it out of pocket.” It was up to the International Canoe Federation (ICF) to identify women’s canoe slalom as an Olympic sport before government funding could begin.

Men’s Canoe Slalom was first introduced into the Olympic Games back in 1972. Alongside men’s C1, there were categories for men’s C2 (tandem canoeing), and men’s and women’s K1 (kayaking). Now, almost five decades later, the women’s canoeing event will finally make its Olympic debut.

Why did it take so long? Each sport in the Olympics is awarded a quota of medals. For women’s C1 to have its own category, it needed to take the place of another. So, in a bid to reach the International Olympic Committee’s (IOC) gender equity criteria, men’s C2 was dropped from the lineup.

For Haley, the decision should have come sooner. “It wasn’t a case of not being ready. We were ready for London [2012]. We were ready for Rio [2016]. The International Canoe Federation wasn’t ready for us.” More funding for women in C1 will encourage and facilitate a larger cohort of Olympic-level female competitors, she said. But it was up to the ICF to take the first step.

“big organizations are resistant to change. Introducing a sport to the Olympics takes time, money and work. They weren’t willing to make that change or speed up the process.”
– Haley Daniels

Some of the former Olympic title holders in the C2 category have since spoken out about the ICF’s decision to remove their category. Peter Skantar, a former gold medalist from Slovakia, publicly commented that the decision from the ICF was, “like a bad joke.” For him, the exchange of C2 for women’s C1 doesn’t bring any “new spirit” to the sport.

Haley believes there’s still a long way to go when it comes to unearthing the deep-rooted stigma associated with women in canoe slalom. “People were literally laughing at us at the training courses when we first got on the water,” she recalled. Without enough female representation in the field, women are viewed as unusual and unworthy competitors by some.

Making waves in the slalom scene

Haley’s impact on the slalom scene is having a ripple effect. Her dad, Kimberly Daniels (formerly Duncan Daniels), is part of the International Olympic Committee and will blaze a trail as the first openly transgender judge on the Olympic judging panel at the Tokyo games.

After coming out to her family, Kimberly initially decided to stay as “Duncan” for the course of the Tokyo Olympics. “We didn’t want that to be the focus of my journey or put any added pressure on me,” Haley recalled. But the pandemic delayed the Tokyo Olympics and altered their timelines. Waiting another year was not in the cards.

So, last year, Duncan became Kimberly full-time. “I told my dad, ‘Dad, I want to scream this off the rooftops with you. Let’s do this together, proudly.’ During Pride Week 2020, we came out,” Haley said.

The announcement was met with little resistance from the slalom community. “It helped knowing we had 100 percent support from Canadian Olympic Committee. It was no longer a secret we had to hide. I know there’s stigma against trans people, so I wanted to be as public about this as possible.” As for her peers, she believes most are okay with it but, “they don’t want to talk about it.” It’s these uncomfortable silences that urged Haley to spark more conversation.

Going for gold: leaving a legacy

Kimberly (right) and Haley (left) are connected by water, just as they are by blood. The two spent most weekends open boating and camping while Haley was growing up. Naturally, Haley’s dad has supported her every step along the way, both on and off the water. | Photo: Dave Holland

Haley’s journey doesn’t end with competing, nor does it end at the podium. Her purpose has shifted. Her social media platforms have become a space where she advocates for trans rights and awareness—specifically in sport.

“It’s a no-brainer for me; I’m happy to advocate. There’s a lack of education on how to respect people in the trans community, even when talking about pronoun usage. We need to create tools and places where people can educate themselves,” she said.

“Sometimes, the biggest impact comes from the smallest conversations,” she added. “If you see something you know is not okay, say something. Don’t let it slide. It’s not a fight. It’s about returning to those uncomfortable situations and standing up for what you believe in.”

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A post shared by Haley Daniels (@haleydanski)

It’s this attitude that has made her an Olympic contender in a category that hasn’t existed until now. “We have equal opportunity, but we also have a past that needs to be rectified. There’s a legacy that’s still being written for women in sport. And for trans people in sport.”

On May 29, 2021, Haley Daniels confirmed her spot on Team Canada and will be part of the first cohort of women canoeists to compete in the games.

Haley Daniels Tokyo-bound. | Photo: Dave Holland

Paddling Magazine Issue 63 | 2021 Paddling Trip Guide Cover

This article was first published in Paddling Magazine Issue 64. Subscribe to Paddling Magazine’s print and digital editions here, or download the Paddling Magazine app and browse the digital archives here.

Everything You Need To Know About Buying A Used Kayak

Paddling Magazine Staff

July 19, 2021

two men in a broken down car with two kayaks strapped to the hood of the car — Buying a used kayak should be easy, right?

There are a number of reasons you may be looking to buy a used kayak. Perhaps you are new to the sport and don’t want to spend money on a new boat until you are sure you like kayaking. Maybe you already own a few kayaks and want to try out a new style for cheap.

Whatever your reason, make sure you are a discerning buyer when looking for a used kayak. Just because you aren’t paying money for a new kayak doesn’t mean you shouldn’t approach the search well informed and ready to analyze what is for sale. Follow our guide on what to look for in a used kayak and start your search for the right boat with confidence.

woman paddles the Eddyline Caribbean 10 kayak under rosy skies

Best Kayaks For 2025

Buy the right kayak for your paddling preference

Not all kayaks are alike. Design, materials, shape and weight will vary based on the kind of kayaking the boat is intended for. In our Paddling Buyer’s Guide, we group kayaks into recreational, racing and training, and touring categories.

Best Recreational Kayaks For 2026

Recreational kayaks

Recreational kayaks are wide, stable and great for beginners, children and those nervous about being on the water. While many have a sunken cockpit with outfitting, some recreational kayaks have open cockpits. These are referred to as sit-on-top kayaks. Recreational kayaks are great for flatwater paddling and short trips.

VIEW ALL RECREATIONAL KAYAKS

woman paddles the Current Designs Karla touring kayak on a calm, somewhat cloudy day

Best Touring Kayaks For 2026

Touring kayaks

Touring kayaks are longer, narrower and have more storage than recreational kayaks. They are designed for longer trips and come equipped with storage for food and equipment, and hatches with lids that can be removed. Most likely, your touring kayak will be a sit-inside design. They are designed to track well in the water and some will have a skeg or a rudder.

VIEW ALL TOURING KAYAKS

Racing and training

Racing and training kayaks are usually even narrower than touring kayaks and many are made of ultra-light materials like carbon. They are designed for speed and performance; the tradeoff is much less stability than recreational kayaks and less storage than touring kayaks.

VIEW ALL RACING & TRAINING KAYAKS

woman paddles the Stellar S14 G2 touring kayak near rocks and trees

Types Of Kayaks Explained—And How To Choose The Right One For You

Give the kayak a once-over

Jack Elliott of White Squall Paddling Centre in Southern Ontario says the first glance you take at a used kayak will tell whether the boat has been looked after. Take special note of frayed ropes, how clean the kayak looks and any indications it has been stored outside.

It’s usually a good sign if the seller handles the boat with care off the water. Neal Ross-Ross, who saw hundreds of boats come and go when he was the manager of Ontario’s Boatwerks kayak shop, says, “If [the seller is] careful with the boat around you while selling it, that’s a good indication they have treated it well.”

After the first glance at a used kayak, make sure to give the kayak a thorough physical once-over. Run your hands over the sides, hull, and decks to check for deformities, dents or weak spots. Keep an eye out for cracks and gouges. Sit in the seat and see if the cockpit outfitting works properly. If the kayak has ratchet straps, crank and loosen them.

Use a flashlight to take a look inside the kayak. Take hatches on and off and see if they seal. Flip the kayak hull-up and see if there is any warping in the hull. Make sure the bulkheads are sound. The shape of a hull affects how the kayak moves in the water. If there is any hull deformity, it means the kayak will not perform the way it was designed to.

There is a difference between a well-used boat, and an abused boat. Sometimes these differences can be hard to spot or read. “What I’m looking for is…the condition of the outfitting, or are there any cracks,” explains Ross-Ross. “Determining what is actually broken versus what is just roughed up.”

Getting To Know The Parts Of Your Kayak

Try to determine how the kayak was stored

The next item of business is determining how the boat has been stored. Improper storage can affect the value and functionality of the kayak.

Ideally, the seller has stored the kayak off the ground and out of the sun. The hull of a kayak is very vulnerable to deformity, especially on plastic boats. If a kayak is stored on its hull it means the performance-dependent part of the boat takes the full weight. A kayak suspended with webbing, standing up against a wall, cockpit down and supported on a rack or leaning on its side will be less susceptible to storage-related damage.

If the kayak has been stored outside, it is possible water has gotten inside the cockpit if a cover wasn’t used. Also, be wary of a kayak sitting outside for months covered directly with a tarp; the tarp can trap moisture and cause mildew. Tarps should be hung or suspended above the kayak, but not directly touching it to allow for airflow.

Paddling into the sunset — Paddle forever. | Photo: Ines Hegedus-Garcia

Take the kayak for a test paddle

Perhaps the best piece of advice for buying a used kayak is to take it for a paddle. You wouldn’t want to purchase a car without driving it, and the same should be true for your kayak.

While obvious impediments to a kayak’s seaworthiness like major gouges or holes will be clear from the once-over, a test paddle can indicate other problems and give you an idea of how the kayak feels for you. If a seller refuses to let you take the kayak for a paddle, you may want to consider why.

Once on the water, ask yourself:

Is the seating comfortable? Would it continue to be comfortable if you were kayaking all day?
Are your legs falling asleep? Do your hips and knees feel comfortable with the amount of space you have?
How well does the kayak track?
Are you noticing any leaks while paddling?
Are the skeg and rudder cables working well? Do the pedals connected to each work? Does the skeg get jammed?
Is the kayak stable enough for you?
Can you maneuver the kayak to your needs? Is it fast or do you feel it’s holding you back?

Potential damage on different kinds of used kayaks

Damage on a used kayak doesn’t necessarily need to be a deal-breaker. What is important is that you are aware of it, understand it may reduce the value and factor it into discussions about price with the seller.

a group of kayakers with colorful boats and apparel gather near shore

The Pros & Cons Of Different Kayak Materials

Many issues can be fixed at home with a little bit of time and research and can lengthen the life of a kayak. For instance, if you find a kayak that is structurally in good shape but has a broken backband, you can buy a replacement for about $100 and increase the value.

Polyethylene kayaks

Polyethylene kayaks are cheap, high impact and heavy. These kayaks are the most vulnerable to deformity and hull warping. Surface scratches are common on these kayaks and are not a big deal, but major gouges and holes can affect the function of the kayak on the water. The vulnerability of plastic kayaks to hull deformity can lead to decreased performance on the water and flex of the boat while paddling.

At Ontario’s Frontenac Outfitters, sales and marketing coordinator Cory Davis and owner Larry Showler agree that polyethylene will show more wear than other kayak materials because it has less rigidity. In terms of repair, they say you can use something heated to blend out gouges and suggest razorblades to take off fuzzy bits of plastic.

VIEW ALL POLYETHYLENE KAYAKS

Orange heat gun laying on blue work gloves

Kayak Repair: How To Fix a Cracked Kayak

Composite: Aramid, fiberglass and carbon kayaks

Composite kayaks are made from fiberglass, aramid and carbon. They are stiffer, lighter and more expensive than their polyethylene counterparts. In terms of weight, fiberglass composite kayaks are typically the heaviest, aramid is middle of the pack and carbon fiber kayaks are the lightest. Depending on the manufacturer of the composite kayak, however, this can be subject to variation.

They can also be easier to damage than polyethylene kayaks. Potential damage can include chipping of the gel coat, delamination and cracking. Remember that cracking and scratches are different. Cracking will be deeper while scratches are superficial and will not allow water to seep into the inside layers of the composite or even into the interior of the boat. You can sand, polish and add more gel-coat to your composite kayak to get rid of scratches.

VIEW ALL COMPOSITE KAYAKS

Thermoform kayaks

Thermoform kayaks are heavier and not as expensive as composites. They are more impact-resistant than polyethylene kayaks, but less so than composites. People who like thermoformed kayaks enjoy that they are usually more inexpensive than composite boats but are lighter than polyethylene. They also have better glide and are stiffer.

Similar to the above two construction materials, scratches are normal, and holes or gouges and other obvious signs of damage can affect seaworthiness. The ABS on these kayaks can become brittle over time, especially if left out in the sun frequently.

VIEW ALL THERMOFORM KAYAKS

Wooden kayaks

Wooden kayaks make up just a tiny portion of the used kayak market, but many who own them enjoy the process of taking care of and maintaining them. Similar to wooden canoes, wooden kayaks are susceptible to rot. This is where determining how the kayak was stored is key.

Be wary of a wooden kayak stored outside on the ground all winter. Wood rot isn’t always obvious. While it can sometimes be identified by spotting or discolored wood, it is also possible rot is inside the wood and the glossy exterior you see looks fine. Chips, cracks or gouges should also be noted.

VIEW ALL WOODEN KAYAKS

Condition of the used kayak’s accessories and parts

There are many accessories and add-ons to a kayak. When buying, a used kayak may come with or without the following. Consider that when deciding if the price is appropriate.

Rudder

A rudder is attached to the stern of a kayak and has cables the paddler can control with foot pedals from inside the cockpit. Rudders control direction. Check to see if the rudder is in good condition by getting in the kayak on the water and using foot pedals to move it side to side. If it is stiff, it takes a lot of effort to move the rudder or it doesn’t move at all, it needs some work.

VIEW ALL KAYAKS WITH RUDDERS

Skeg

A skeg is a blade that comes down from a compartment near the kayak’s stern and aids tracking and trimming in the wind. The depth is often controlled by a cable the paddler can adjust from inside the cockpit.

Skeg Vs Rudder: The Great Kayak Debate

Make sure when you test paddle the kayak that you test the cables function properly, and inspect the skeg itself for cracks or damage.

VIEW ALL KAYAKS WITH SKEGS

Deck rigging

Deck lines and rigging refers to the ropes or cords that crisscross the kayak deck. The function of deck rigging ranges from providing grab holds to allowing a spot for paddlers to attach water bottles, map bags and paddles to enabling the use of rudders and skegs. Lines and ropes that are frayed or falling apart may indicate the kayak hasn’t been taken care of.

Hatches

Elliott from White Squall Paddling Centre explains hatches made from rubber can degrade quickly, especially if left out in the sun. Some hatches can be replaced, but some companies will not sell the right replacements for older models.

Elliott has a kayak he really likes, but the rear hatch replacement he needs is unavailable, rendering the kayak essentially useless. If you are seriously considering a used kayak and there is a problem with the hatch—or any other part—make sure the boat maker still manufactures replacements.

How much does a used kayak cost?

The feel of a kayak and how well it fits your needs should be the priority when buying a used kayak, not the price. Showler and Davis feel used kayak shoppers should avoid beginning their search with a price in mind. They say it is key to find the right boat and make enjoyment and fit the most important factor.

Kayaks tend to hold their value quite well and stand up against rapid depreciation if they are taken care of. When considering and negotiating price, find the exact model of the kayak in question (you can check our Paddling Buyer’s Guide) and find out what it costs new.

Elliot says that while the price of a used kayak is always changing, they depreciate about 50% five years after being bought new.

two people paddle Evoke kayaks past a flowerpot island

How Much Does A Kayak Cost?

Factor in the age of the used kayak you are looking at and consider the damage or issues you have identified. Lastly, make sure you prioritize the comfort and suitability of the kayak to your paddling needs. $200 over your budget will feel insignificant when you are the owner of a perfectly fitted kayak that performs exactly how you want it to for years to come.

Places to buy used kayaks

There’s no one best place to find used kayaks. Local paddling shops will often sell off rental boats at the end of the season—this can be a great option for finding (and testing) a used kayak. Then of course there are garage sales, Classified ads, and talking to local paddlers.

The internet greatly widens your search radius and allows you to comb through many listings in short order. Check Facebook Marketplace, community buy and sell Facebook pages, Kijiji, Craigslist and Ebay to buy used kayaks online.

person holding a magnifying glass up to a computer screen with eBay website

7 Mistakes To Avoid When Buying A Kayak On Ebay

computer monitor displaying Craiglist website with keyboard, pencil, and coffee mug

9 Mistakes To Avoid When Buying A Kayak On Craigslist

World Explorer And Novice Kayaker Mario Rigby On Paddling Lake Ontario

Colin Field

July 13, 2021

“You don’t have to travel around the world to find adventure,” says explorer Mario Rigby, who encourages sustainable, human-powered forms of exploration. | Photo: Mario Rigby

Last summer, Mario Rigby set out to kayak the length of one of the Great Lakes. A member of the prestigious Explorer’s Club and a fellow at the Royal Canadian Geographic Society, Rigby is a full-time explorer. He’s previously cycled across Canada and completed a solo, two-year walk across Africa, 7,500 miles from Cape Town, South Africa, to Cairo, Egypt. But during the pandemic he set out on a new kind of journey.

A kayaker on a river with green vegetation on either side

The Best Places To Paddle Near You

5 questions for Mario Rigby on paddling Lake Ontario

Rigby had never been in a sit-inside kayak until he set out from the Hamilton harbor on Lake Ontario last June. His impromptu trip aimed to promote local travel in a year where regional restrictions were the norm, advocate for diversity in outdoor adventure, and raise money for MyStand, a charity for at-risk youth. During the 220-mile, 20-day paddle, he camped on shorelines and weathered a half-dozen capsizes and treacherous storms. Far more important than the miles paddled were the perceptions he challenged along the way.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by M A R I O | Eco-Explorer (@mariorigby)

Q1 When did you decide to do this trip?

I was supposed to go to Baffin Island in 2020 and do an expedition around how climate change is affecting local communities, and we were going to make a short film about it. But, you know—COVID. So, I decided to do a local expedition. I didn’t know how to paddle a kayak. I do large expeditions once every three years; between those I try to do mini expeditions.

[ Find an adventure close to home in the Paddling Trip Guide ]

Q2 What has the outdoor community’s response been?

Finding sponsors in 2015 for my African expedition was pretty much impossible. I reached out to hundreds of people, magazines, organizations and companies. I didn’t look like a quintessential explorer, and my message was different—I’m not trying to be the first or the best or the fastest.

I feel like this is a very Western perspective of what is successful; you have to be the ultimate at everything. I don’t think that’s true. The definition of an explorer needs some revision. The response to this trip has been intense. I have a team just for inbound requests.

Q3 Who belongs outdoors?

Everyone. The first challenge of being Black in the outdoor community is not being taken seriously. Some people take things seriously because of a certain voice or look. They’ll say, “Oh, you’re not saying these acronyms properly.” There’s elitism and it’s evident in just the way people speak.

We judge people when they don’t know the full names for certain things or when they’re not paying high prices for outdoor gear. That bothers me because I come from a background where I couldn’t afford gear like that; it was completely out of reach. When I look at the price tags of jackets, I’m like, are you kidding me? Every single human being belongs in the outdoor space, but attitudes and cost can be barriers.

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A post shared by M A R I O | Eco-Explorer (@mariorigby)

Q4 Why should everyone advocate for a more inclusive outdoor industry?

three Black men and women kayaking on calm water

River Heroes: 4 Organizations Opening Doors For Black & Indigenous Paddlers

If you have more inclusion and diversity in the outdoors, more people are interested in helping the environment. To me, it’s the biggest conundrum. Organizations and companies focus their marketing on a small group of individuals. But all those eco or green messages are only going to reach a small percentage of the population. Why not reach out to the masses?

The only way to do that is to understand other cultures and bring them on board. If people can’t experience what nature has to offer, of course, they’re not going to be interested in protecting it.

Q5 Where is your next expedition?

I’m planning future expeditions. One is to retrace the West African slave trade. I’ll find out where my DNA comes from by starting in Africa and retracing the route to America. It’ll be solo and human- or wind-powered.

cover of Paddling Magazine, Issue 63 This article was first published in Issue 63 of Paddling Magazine. Subscribe to Paddling Magazine’s print and digital editions, or browse the archives.

“You don’t have to travel around the world to find adventure,” says explorer Mario Rigby, who encourages sustainable, human-powered forms of exploration. | Feature photo: Mario Rigby

Kayaker Rescued From Dam’s Recirculating Current (Video)

Paddling Magazine Staff

July 12, 2021

Kentucky paddler Kevin O’Brien was sitting in an eddy above a low-head dam when, up ahead, he noticed another kayaker drop over the horizon line.

A low-head hydro dam (or “weir”) is a barrier across the width of the river that alters both the flow and the characteristics of the water. These weirs—defined as being less than 5 meters in height—are used as a means of controlling the flow of water for outlets of lakes, ponds, and reservoirs.

[ Also watch: Canoe Pinned With Father And Son Inside ]

For kayakers, they are generally bad news. At the base of these dams, there is often a strong recirculating current that is near impossible to escape. For those who find themselves at the mercy of the powerful hydraulic, it can often mean fatal or near-fatal consequences.

For the unnamed paddler up in front, things were about to get ugly.

[ See all Safety & Rescue equipment in the Paddling Buyer’s Guide ]

Kevin and another nearby paddler sprung into action upon noticing things hadn’t gone to plan. Kevin was able to jump out of his kayak and quickly throw the distressed swimmer a throw bag. Thankfully, after a bit of verbal coaching and clear instruction to “grab it”, the swimmer was able to grab the bag the first time around and was pulled out of the hydraulic.

We exhale a sigh of relief as we see the paddler return safely to the side of the river.

It doesn’t take much imagination to envision this situation playing out differently. This kayaker was saved through the quick action from nearby trained paddlers and having the appropriate safety equipment available. A PFD and a throw bag were paramount to his rescue.

Even with the correct equipment at hand, some aren’t as lucky. The best way to avoid the dangerous hydraulics of hydro-dams is to steer clear of them to begin with. If you plan on paddling a river with a low-head dam, be sure to check water levels before you set out, know your portage routes and take out, and take all the necessary precautions.

Stefi Van Wijk: Carving Her Own Course On The Madawaska

Ontario's Highlands Tourism Organization, Amy Hogue

July 9, 2021

The Madawaska River is the best teacher. | Photo courtesy of: Ontario's Highlands Tourism Organization

It’s no exaggeration to say water is in the blood for whitewater paddler, instructor and paddle school manager, Stefi Van Wijk. Most days Stefi looks like she’s come straight off a paddling trip which, in all likelihood she is, complete with the calm that comes from spending the day on the water and pushing yourself to do your very best, and then doing it.

Stefi is so passionate about paddling that it’s hard to imagine a time when a life on the water wasn’t a given, particularly in light of her family background. Stefi’s grandparents founded the renowned paddling school, Madawaska Kanu Centre (MKC), nearly 50 years ago. Stefi’s grandfather, Hermann, and mother, Claudia, were the first to descend the Ottawa River, where they ultimately founded the world-renowned rafting resort, OWL Rafting.

Stefi Van Wijk, avid paddler and manager of MKC. | Photo courtesy of: Ontario’s Highlands Tourism Organization

A life spent on the water

Needless to say, paddling played a big role in Stefi’s family growing up. In fact, Stefi’s sister was known as the best female whitewater kayaker in the world for a number of years, and paddling and the water continue to be a passion for Stefi’s parents, Claudia and Dirk Van Wijk, one they have encouraged in their daughters.

“I grew up on the water in a canoe or kayak,” Stefi said. “My earliest memories are of being in the bow of my dad’s canoe, or my mom’s tandem kayak.”

Stefi’s childhood years were spent transitioning seasonally between winters in Ottawa and summers on the water in a canoe or kayak at OWL or MKC, or on family paddling trips. This lifestyle meant Stefi’s relationship to both areas wasn’t given a chance to deepen, as she was always moving from one community to another.

There were many simple things she wasn’t able to experience as a result. For example, she had “never seen all four seasons of a single tree in my whole life…so that was a really big deal for me.” Now settled in the Ottawa Valley’s community of Barry’s Bay, Stefi has finally found a place to call her own.

Stefi getting ready for a day on the water at MKC.

Stefi and her mother, Claudia, on the river.

Paddling the Madawaska River

While she is drawn to all waterways, for Stefi, the Madawaska River has been the one constant in a life spent transitioning between the Ottawa Valley in the summer months and Ottawa, where she attended school, during the rest of the year. Every summer, she and her family would make the drive to OWL or MKC, traveling the familiar roads that returned her to her water girl roots.

“The river is where I’m my best self. It doesn’t care who I’m pretending to be.” -Stefi Van Wijk

At 230 kilometers long, the Madawaska River has plenty to offer all levels of paddlers. It’s divided into four paddling sections as it makes its journey from Source Lake in Algonquin Provincial Park to the Ottawa River—the Upper Madawaska, Middle Madawaska, Palmer Rapids and Lower Madawaska.

The Mad is known for its park and play rapids as well as longer stretches of whitewater. Those looking for flatwater will find that too, either on the river itself or the lakes it flows through.

Spend an afternoon, entire day or weekend on the Mad. | Photo courtesy of: Ontario’s Highlands Tourism Organization

Paddlers can take their pick from ample Madawaska River canoe routes, each of which provides a different experience in a beautiful setting. With opportunities for camping, it’s easy to accomplish a Madawaska River canoe trip, spending the night at the river’s edge.

[ Further reading: The Ultimate Ottawa Valley Adventure Guide ]

Madawaska River camping can be had in both front-country and backcountry experiences—the latter within the non-operating Lower Madawaska River Provincial Park. In need of a boat? Madawaska River canoe rentals, as well as kayak rentals, are available from various establishments along the river, depending where paddlers are starting or ending their trip.

And don’t forget that getting to the put-in is itself an experience.

“It’s being on the hilly roads around the Madawaska Valley and the familiarity there…it brings me home,” Stefi said.

The Madawaska River is the best teacher. | Photo courtesy of: Ontario’s Highlands Tourism Organization

Finding her own way

When you come from a family of passionate, avid and competitive whitewater kayakers, one would think it would be easy to embrace paddling. For Stefi, finding her way to the water was a route that wasn’t always clear. The competitive nature of her family’s passion didn’t resonate with her, and for many years she struggled to carve her own path.

“I had to explore my personal reasons or values for connecting to the river. My reasons are different than my mom and dad’s,” Stefi said. “My parents presented the way they connected with the river, and my sister loved that connection. I always kind of felt like the black sheep, but I just needed to explore and create my own unique way of connecting with it. In the end, that way is almost valued more because it’s different.”

The chance to work as a young apprentice canoe guide at the age of 16 gave Stefi the opportunity she needed to strike out on her own and establish her own connection with the water in a way that wasn’t based on competition, the way paddling had been presented to her.

When she injured both shoulders guiding, Stefi was forced to take a temporary hiatus and turned her attention to the administrative side of the family’s companies. This was the beginning of her journey facilitating other people’s introduction to and experiences on the water.

Enjoy peaceful flatwater.

Or the thrill of whitewater.

Managing the Madawaska Kanu Centre

These days, Stefi’s role is to help others learn to love the river as much as she does and bring more paddlers into the paddling community. “Putting bums in boats,” as Stefi’s mom Claudia likes to say. There are still expectations that come along with being manager of MKC, but Stefi isn’t shy about embracing the challenges the role brings.

[ Paddling Trip Guide: View all courses and trips at the Madawaska Kanu Centre ]

“I run a paddling school, so there’s a bit of an expected identity that comes with that, and I can put pressure on myself to live that way,” said Stefi. “I try really hard as an instructor, as a teacher and as a leader to be authentic in my insecurities and my weaknesses so I can inspire others to hopefully show up and be who they are.”

MKC offers a range of paddling courses, from beginner to advanced instruction in the form of day- to week-long programming. In addition, the paddling school provides professional certification in first aid, river rescue and instructing. On top of that, MKC runs whitewater rafting trips.

Even after more than two decades of experience on the water, the river never stops teaching Stefi.

“Every time you’re on the water you learn what you need to learn. It teaches you, if you pay attention. Every lesson I’ve learned in life started on the water.”