The Stand Up Paddle Guide to The Great Lakes by Paddle Logger

I have written a few articles this year about paddling in beautiful destinations like Southern California, and Florida. Paddling on the Great Lakes offers a unique blend of adventure, tranquility, and stunning natural beauty. I have grown up in between the Great Lakes my entire life (specifically Erie, and Ontario), and I am stoked to be sharing this guide with you as the Great Lakes should be on every paddlers bucket list. As the largest group of freshwater lakes in the world, the Great Lakes provide diverse paddling environments, from serene bays to bustling shorelines. Whether you’re maneuvering through the crystalline waters of Lake Michigan or exploring the breathtaking vistas of Lake Superior, each experience promises an opportunity to connect with nature. Paddling and surfing on the Great Lakes is accessible for all skill levels, making these activities popular for families, solo adventurers, and seasoned paddlers alike. Here is a list of recommended places you need to check out paddling on the Great Lakes brought to you by my own personally paddling and surfing experiences and tracking courtesy of Paddle Logger!

Stand-up paddling Lake Ontario

The first of the five Great Lakes, Lake Ontario truly provides paddlers with an exciting opportunity to explore both urban and natural landscapes. Lake Ontario offers paddlers access to bustling waterfronts such as the Toronto Harbour, serene parks such as Sandbanks, and many beautiful beaches such as Lakeside Park Beach in St Catharines Ontario. The backdrop of Toronto’s skyline provides an iconic experience, while the tranquil waters of the Thousand Islands region offer a serene retreat. Whether you are paddling through calm waters at sunrise or navigating gentle waves during the day, each moment on Lake Ontario reveals a unique combination of adventure and relaxation.

Where to Stand Up Paddle on Lake Michigan?

Stand up paddling on Lake Michigan is an exhilarating way to explore its vast waters, as it is the second largest Great Lake by volume and third largest by surface area. Lake Michigan is the only Great Lake entirely in the USA, which includes many unique paddling destinations such as bustling waters in Chicago, to serene beauty in the Indiana Dunes. Each paddle provides a chance to witness breathtaking sunsets and diverse wildlife. Beginners can enjoy calm mornings, while experienced paddlers can challenge themselves on windier days. Fun fact, some of the earliest history of Great Lakes surfing traces back to Sheboygan, a city and county located on the west coast of the lake, which is still a very popular surfing and SUP surfing destination! Whether you’re seeking relaxation or adventure, Lake Michigan’s crystal-clear waters promise an unforgettable stand-up paddling experience amidst captivating scenery.

Paddleboarding on Lake Superior 

The mightiest Great Lake of them all, Lake Superior truly provides stand up paddlers with a breathtaking experience, offering a blend of adventure and tranquility amidst stunning natural beauty. Known for its clear blue waters and rugged coastline, Lake Superior invites paddlers to explore its pristine bays, towering cliffs, and secluded coves. Paddle past Sleeping Giant provincial park or beneath the iconic Apostle Islands, where vibrant sandstone formations and sea caves create a mesmerizing backdrop. The lake’s expansive horizons make it perfect for both beginners and seasoned paddlers, while wildlife sightings, like soaring eagles and playful seals, add to the allure. Each moment spent on Lake Superior’s waters truly immerses you in nature’s splendor.

Paddling on Lake Huron

Known for its picturesque shorelines and abundant islands, Lake Huron invites paddlers to explore hidden coves, sandy beaches, and vibrant wetlands. The breathtaking scenery includes the stunning cliffs of Fathom Five National Marine Park, Manitoulin Island, and many tranquil beaches such as Sauble Beach, Station Beach, and Grand Bend Beach. Paddlers can enjoy the diverse wildlife, from migrating birds to playful otters, enhancing the adventure. Ideal for both beginners and experts, Lake Huron’s conditions create a perfect setting for relaxation and exploration, making it a must-visit destination for SUP enthusiasts.

Where to SUP on Lake Erie

As the shallowest of the Great Lakes, its warm waters are ideal for paddlers seeking a summer adventure. The lake’s diverse shoreline features beautiful beaches, charming towns such as Turkey Point, Port Stanley, and Port Colborne, and lush wetlands, making each outing a unique experience. Paddlers can explore destinations like Point Pelee National Park, where rich wildlife and stunning vistas await. Whether you prefer a leisurely paddle through calm waters or a more active exploration with friends, Lake Erie’s inviting atmosphere and picturesque scenery create unforgettable moments for paddlers of all skill levels.

We hope that one day you have the chance to explore each of the five Great Lakes. Each lake offers its own unique charm, and whether you’re a beginner seeking relaxation or an experienced paddler looking for adventure, the Great Lakes provide an unforgettable backdrop for exploration. As Paddle Logger has been around for a decade, I also highly recommend tracking your paddles through this app and let us know how you enjoyed your Great Lakes adventure.

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