Water Trails

Icon of a kayaker with the text "Lower Grand River Water Trail".

A water trail is any route along a river, lake, or bay that is specifically designed for the use of small boats such as kayaks, canoes, paddleboards, etc. Water trails have developed access and launch points that are accessible to the public. These trails encourage tourism and recreation, and assist in showcasing Michigan's incredible water resources, local pride, and economic growth. A water trail, also called a blue way, is similar to a hiking trail, or green way.

The Grand River is the longest river in Michigan, reaching over 250 miles in length. The goal of the water trail project is to create a large scale trail, consisting of the upper, middle, and lower Grand River, that is accessible by all and will encourage further water recreation and protection. By constructing this water trail, residents and visitors will have more access points to get onto and off of the river, as well as potential hazard reporting available and identified heritage sites along the river. This will not only engage local citizens, but will encourage tourism and economic growth for nearby towns and cities as well.

You can read more about this project here.