Miles of trails makes for hours of fun.
We're working with our partners in the Middle and Lower Grand to create Michigan's longest water trail. When complete, the Grand River Water Trail (GRWT) will offer 225 miles of accessible, safe, and fun recreational opportunities for all people, joining communities along Michigan's longest river, from the headwaters to Lake Michigan, and connecting individuals and families to the river's recreational, ecological, historic, cultural, and economic resources.
Parts of the trail are already complete. The Upper Grand River Water Trail (UGRWT) offers over 90 miles of local paddle routes right here in your backyard. The Upper Grand Water Trail extends from Vandercook Lake County Park (Jackson County) to the City of Eaton Rapids (Eaton County), where it meets the Middle Grand River Water Trail. Both trails were designated “State Water Trails” by the Michigan Department of Natural Resources.
See for yourself why Michigan receives rave reviews without even having to drive "up north;" come paddle the Upper Grand River Water Trail.
Water Trails
The Upper Grand River Water Trail Development Plan includes recommendations for 33 canoe and kayak access sites on the Upper Grand River, the Portage River and the Chain-of-Lakes east of Michigan Center. Some of these will need to be created from scratch and others include recommendations for parking, bathrooms, potable water, signage and information kiosks, and other improvements at existing access sites. The Watershed Alliance is also developing a system for ongoing trail maintenance; trail maps, guidebooks, and marketing materials; and raising funds to implement the plan.
Unprecedented Scenery
Each season provides a new view along the river, from spring wildflowers to radiant fall foliage, migratory birds and native mammals. The Grand River Watershed provides a stunning display of Michigan’s natural beauty. Discover the clear waters of our Chain of Lakes, bounce through restored whitewater in Eaton Rapids, or paddle below one of the states few remaining covered bridges. Spot wild turkeys, beaver, mink, and deer. Enjoy how the sunlight reflects on the backs of pike and walleye swimming below.