Some suggested paddling routes
Below are just a few of the easily accessible paddling locations around the Ann Arbor area. I will be adding more as I generate some new GPS maps of other routes we paddle later this spring. Always practice safe paddling by knowing and complying with all the regulations for the waters you will be paddling. The US Coast Guard has designated stand up paddle boards as "vessels" and they are therefore subject to all the rules of boating for similarly classed craft. Know the local regulations as well, as the State of Michigan and local jurisdictions may have rules that apply to the waters you'll be on. Always check the weather before you go. When possible, paddle with someone else or at the very least let someone know where you'll be paddling and when. SUP if very fun and it's very easy to be safe also.
In general, river paddling is flatter as the narrower spaces and winding course leaves less room for waves to build. The current can of course be an issue with the Huron running about 3-4 miles an hour and even a little more after spring snow melt and heavy rains. The boat traffic is most often very light, but the segment between Argo and Barton dams can be very busy in the evenings with the rowing clubs. Just be polite, remember that the skulls don't turn very easily, and with all watercraft you share the river with, paddle just like driving, on the right hand side of the river and opposing traffic on your left.
Lake paddling can also be beautiful but comes with it's own challenges and considerations. Foremost might be weather. Wind and waves can be significant and can build without warning. Always check the weather before paddling any type of water and never paddle in conditions above your abilities. Not far behind weather will be other boaters. As above, be polite but also know that not every boater knows the rules and may not know how to or be willing to be polite/safe in return (the vast majority are, but you can't assume). In the lakes listed below, the large open section of Halfmoon Lake is the busiest with boat traffic. in general, if you stay closer to shore (but away from docks and rafts) you will stay clear of the tubers and skiers. Again, it's easy to avoid problems you just have to be aware. Other lakes, especially Woodburn and Blind Lakes are much less busy and very nice for paddling. All the lakes tend to be less busy during weekdays then weekends and in the early and late parts of the day.
In general, river paddling is flatter as the narrower spaces and winding course leaves less room for waves to build. The current can of course be an issue with the Huron running about 3-4 miles an hour and even a little more after spring snow melt and heavy rains. The boat traffic is most often very light, but the segment between Argo and Barton dams can be very busy in the evenings with the rowing clubs. Just be polite, remember that the skulls don't turn very easily, and with all watercraft you share the river with, paddle just like driving, on the right hand side of the river and opposing traffic on your left.
Lake paddling can also be beautiful but comes with it's own challenges and considerations. Foremost might be weather. Wind and waves can be significant and can build without warning. Always check the weather before paddling any type of water and never paddle in conditions above your abilities. Not far behind weather will be other boaters. As above, be polite but also know that not every boater knows the rules and may not know how to or be willing to be polite/safe in return (the vast majority are, but you can't assume). In the lakes listed below, the large open section of Halfmoon Lake is the busiest with boat traffic. in general, if you stay closer to shore (but away from docks and rafts) you will stay clear of the tubers and skiers. Again, it's easy to avoid problems you just have to be aware. Other lakes, especially Woodburn and Blind Lakes are much less busy and very nice for paddling. All the lakes tend to be less busy during weekdays then weekends and in the early and late parts of the day.
Pinckney Recreation Area is a great place for lake paddling. From one of two launch sites in DNR parks, you can gain access to Halfmoon Lake, Blind Lake, Bruin Lake, Patterson Lake, and Woodburn Lake. Also, you can get through to Hiland Lake to near Hell, Michigan. The weather can be a factor but usually you can find a flatter bit of water by going to one launch site or the other. Halfmoon Lake Beach, off of Hankerd Rd., has a beach and a boat launch area. Bruin Lake campground off of Kaiser Rd. also has a beach and boat launch. There is also an public access to Hiland Lake but it is a little more remote and not well marked.