City hosts kayaking trips in the Grand River and free kayak demos
Published on May 17, 2022
GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. – The City of Grand Rapids will host beginner-friendly kayaking adventures in the Grand River May through September. In addition, the Parks and Recreation Department will host free kayaking demos in the Riverside Park lagoon on select Friday nights to coincide with Food Truck Fridays.
Guided kayaking adventures are scheduled for the following dates:
- Tuesdays, May 24 through Sept. 13 from 6 to 8 p.m.
- Saturdays, May 21 through Sept. 17 from noon to 2 p.m.
- Saturdays, May 28, June 25, July 30, and Aug. 27 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Kayakers will depart from and return to Riverside Park lagoon, 2001 Monroe Ave NE. Up to 12 adults can participate in each kayak adventure. The adventures last 2 hours and are $30 for Grand Rapids residents, $40 for nonresidents. Basic instruction, a kayak, paddle, personal flotation device, and trained staff member are provided for each trip. Preregistration is required HERE.
In addition to kayak adventures, the City will also host free kayaking demos for families through the summer. Free 20-minute kayak rides for ages 10 and above will be available throughout the evening on a first-come, first-served basis. No registration is required. All paddling activities will remain in Riverside Park lagoon. Kayaks and personal flotation devices are provided, and a lifeguard will be on-site.
Free yard games and activities will be provided on land courtesy of the City’s Thrive Outside Grand Rapids initiative. Free campfire s’mores will be available while supplies last. Food trucks will also be available in the park as part of Food Truck Fridays.
Family Paddle Nights are scheduled for the following dates:
- May 20 from 5 to 8 p.m.
- June 24 from 5 to 8 p.m.
- July 29 from 5 to 8 p.m.
- Aug 26 from 5 to 8 p.m.
Grand Rapids Parks and Recreation Director David Marquardt says the kayaking programs are part of a larger goal to reconnect all members of the community to the Grand River as restoration efforts take shape.
“These programs are a great way to teach our community members about water safety, water quality and the many ways you can enjoy the Grand River in its present state and in the future,” Marquardt said.