Whitewater in Northern Michigan is a rare find, making Petoskey’s Bear River Whitewater Park a paddler’s goldmine. Calm patches and rock-filled watery terrain are integrated in this fast-paced course just over an hour’s travel from Traverse City. Watch this action-packed footage from the park, then go there yourself.

Location: The Bear River Valley Recreation Area has a 1.5-mile path along the river and includes the .25-mile whitewater boating area. Find the path along the Bear River from Lake Street south to Standish Avenue. Main entrances off of West Lake Street and Sheridan Street.

Northern Michigan Paddle Adventures