Our Story
West Michigan Kayaking Club was built for people who crave real adventure: long miles, wild rivers and the kind of trips that stay with you long after you pull out.
Wild Rivers. Rugged Trails. Real Adventure.
Two paddlers, a lot of river miles
What started in 2019 with Brad De Young and Tim Postma exploring Michigan's rivers together quickly grew into a community of outdoor enthusiasts who wanted more than short, easy paddles and crowded liveries.
We wanted long miles, wild places, meaningful challenges and unforgettable experiences on the water.
From one river to the whole state
Tap each stop to read more.
-
Brad De Young and Tim Postma start paddling Michigan's rivers together, chasing longer distances and wilder water than the usual livery trip.
-
Word spreads. Paddlers who love endurance miles, camping and hiking join in, and the club grows into a Grand Rapids-based community of adventurers.
-
From evening paddles close to home to multi-day expeditions deep in the Upper Peninsula, we believe every river has a story worth exploring.
Adventures all year long
Michigan has some of the most beautiful waterways in the country. Our mission is to help people experience them in a deeper, more adventurous way.
Long-Distance River Trips
Big-mileage days on Michigan's classic rivers for paddlers who love to keep going.
Wilderness Expeditions
Remote water, fewer people and multi-day trips into Michigan's backcountry.
Endurance Challenges
Push past your comfort zone with challenge paddles that test grit and stamina.
Camping & Hiking Weekends
Paddle by day, hike the trails and camp under the stars with the crew.
Skill-Building Paddles
Grow your confidence and technique alongside experienced club members.
Community Events
Group adventures and get-togethers that turn paddling partners into friends.
A place for every paddler
Our members range from experienced expedition paddlers to newer kayakers growing their skills. What connects us is a shared passion for rivers, nature and exploration.
Adventure
Long miles, wild places and meaningful challenges on the water and the trail.
Friendship
A community that shows up for each other, on and off the river.
Respect for the Outdoors
Caring for Michigan's rivers, lakes and watersheds so they stay wild for the next paddler.
Common questions
Does it cost anything to join?
No. Membership and all club events are 100% free.
Do I need to be an experienced paddler?
Not at all. Whether you're training for your first 15-mile paddle or planning your next backcountry expedition, there's a place for you.
Who leads the trips?
Trips are led by club members who volunteer as trip leaders. We're a paddling community, not a commercial outfitter, so everyone is responsible for their own gear, skills and safety.
How do I become a member?
Complete the Member Agreement before your first event. Agreements run January 1 to January 1 and are renewed each year.
Come paddle with us
Find your next river, your next challenge and your new paddling crew.
Wild Rivers. Rugged Trails. Real Adventure.