Eaton Rapids is also known as “Island City,” for a good reason. If you’re looking to do some paddling during your getaway, you could hardly choose a better locale. The area has lots of rental providers making it easy to canoe, SUP, or kayak the Grand River!
There’s nothing quite as refreshing on a hot summer day as getting out onto the water. The Grand River’s meandering flow averages around 3 miles per hour, making it perfect for relaxing paddle trips.
The river also features numerous locations for getting in or out. This makes it easy to plan a custom Grand River paddle trip suited to your level of interest.
Paddling the Grand River
If you’re just visiting the Eaton Rapids area, there are many local resources to help get you out on the water.
Here in Eaton Rapids we have the Eaton Rapids Outdoor Recreation Center. The center is located on the river at 114 Mill Street and rents both kayaks and tubes. The river at adjacent Mill Pointe Park offers a series of rapids that are immensely satisfying to navigate time and again.
On Tuesday nights, 5pm to 7pm, the center offers a free, Downtown Discovery Paddle tour. This lovely little jaunt has you kayak the Grand River from Mill Pointe Park, around the island, and back again. If you think the river looks lovely flowing through downtown, just wait ’til you see downtown Eaton Rapids from the vantage of the river!
Paddling Lansing
Nearby Lansing, MI offers a variety of excellent paddling opportunities as well.
One of the more popular areas to kayak the Grand River in Lansing is at Kruger Landing at Aurelius Road. There are lots of different access points, however. See a current list on the Middle Grand River Organization of Watersheds website.
If you’d prefer a guided paddling trip on the Grand River, or just up-to-the-minute advice on where to go, consult your Lansing outfitter. River Town Adventures offers guided trips on both the Grand and Red Cedar Rivers. They can also provide good advice about where to go on the river on your own.
Eaton Rapids Lodging
The English Inn Restaurant & Pub is a premiere Michigan wedding venue in Eaton Rapids, on the Grand River. In fact, many of our rooms overlook the river. Our beautiful and historic property includes a full-service restaurant and English Pub, all located less than a half an hour from downtown Lansing. Come treat yourself with a stay at The English Inn Restaurant & Pub!