Places to Kayak on Drummond Island

Places to Kayak on Drummond Island
Located in Lake Huron off the northeastern coast of Michigan, Drummond Island has over 140 miles of coast. Steeped in culture and history, having an abundance of wildlife, Drummond Island should be on every kayaker's list of "must-paddle" locations. Follow the trails of the French Voyageurs and Native Americans as you explore hundreds of islands and coves. For those new to kayaking, Drummond Island offers protected waters for your enjoyment.

Whitney Bay

Put in is at the Fort Drummond Marine and Resort. From Michigan 134 head south on Whitney Bay Road. Located in a protected bay, Fort Drummond Marine is in an area that novices as well as more experienced paddlers can enjoy.
Back Bay and Duck Island are only seven-tenths of a mile away, and the trip is suitable for the beginner. Heading north and east, you will find large boulders in the water offering good bass fishing and sightseeing.
For intermediate paddlers, head south from Fort Drummond for one mile to Fisher island.
Expert paddlers can paddle south to the Tour De Reef lighthouse. Be aware that you have to cross a busy shipping channel.

Pigeon Cove Flooding and Pike bay

From Michigan 134 turn left onto Pike Bay Road--travel about a mile to the floodings.
Here novice and expert alike can explore the marshy floodings, where you may see bear, deer and birds.

North Shore cultural paddling

Launch at any resort or campground on the north shore of Drummond Island. This area is an easy paddle for beginners to enjoy. While in the area check out the Betsy Seaman Memorial Park and the Drummond Island Historical Museum. There is a Frank Lloyd Wright-inspired outdoor chapel nearby.

Circumnavigate Drummond Island

Start from whichever resort or campground you are staying at. With map in hand and enough gear and food for a few days, head out and see all that Drummond Island has to offer. Depending on whether you cut across all the coves and bays or hug the shoreline, the trip can last from a couple of days to several. Be prepared to encounter fog and rough open water.

Article Written By Mark Quest

Mark Quest began his freelance writing career in 2009. His work has been published online at eHow and Trails.com. Quest attended Asheville Buncombe Technical Community College focusing on the sciences.

Write for Trails.com
  • Editor's Pick

    Backcountry Camping Tips

    Backcountry Camping Tips

    You've already tried car and RV camping. You've camped at commercial campsites that had a convenient restroom and water supply. Now, you want to explore the road less traveled. Backcountry camping, also known as primitive camping, is a wonderful way to explore the remote...

    More Backcountry Camping...
  • Popular Article

    Beach Camping Near Pismo Beach, California

    Beach Camping Near Pismo Beach, California

    Pismo State Beach, California, has many attractions and activities including camping, swimming, hiking and wildlife viewing. Birdwatching is one of the primary activities in the area. The park also has the largest over-wintering colony of monarch butterflies in the natio...

    More Beach Camping...
  • Featured Video

    Common Sense Hiking Tips

    Common Sense Hiking Tips

    The first and most fundamental thing is never hike alone. There are too many situations, especially as an unexperienced hiker, where you may find yourself without anyone to help you. So the buddy system works and applies very much in hiking.

    More Camping Basics...

Outdoor Gear & Equipment

ALL NEW Trails Gear Store powered by:

Trail Finder

US Map

Search by Keyword