Jordan River Hike & Kayaking Adventure

West Michigan Kayaking Club

Wild Rivers. Rugged Trails. Real Adventure.

Join us for a two-day Northern Michigan adventure exploring the legendary Jordan River Valley by both hiking and kayaking.

This trip combines the iconic Jordan River Pathway hike with a scenic paddle down one of Michigan’s most pristine natural rivers.

Participants may join the full weekend or choose either activity.

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🥾 Jordan River Pathway Hike – Saturday

Meet: 9:00 AM

Meeting Location: Pinney Bridge State Forest Campground

📍 45°00’48.94”N, 85°01’48.16”W

Participants will leave vehicles at Pinney Bridge before shuttling to Deadman’s Hill, where the hike will begin.

Trail Start

Deadman’s Hill Overlook

📍 45°02’42.52”N, 84°56’06.06”W

Hike Begins: 9:30 AM

The Jordan River Pathway is a classic Michigan backcountry trail featuring scenic ridgelines, hardwood forests, river crossings, and spectacular views of the Jordan River Valley.

Hike Details

* Approximately 10 miles
* Moderate to challenging difficulty
* 5–7 hours
* Rugged, uneven terrain
* Scenic overlooks and wilderness sections

Hike Finish

Pinney Bridge State Forest Campground

📍 45°00’48.94”N, 85°01’48.16”W

📞 (231) 582-7523

🌐 https://www.michigan.gov/dnr/-/media/Project/Websites/dnr/Documents/PRD/State-Forest-Campgrounds/Pinney-Bridge.pdf

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🚣‍♂️ Jordan River Kayaking Adventure – Sunday

Meeting Time: 9:00 AM

Launch Site: Graves Crossing

📍 45°02’01.11”N, 85°03’56.54”W

Participants will shuttle vehicles to Rogers Road Bridge before launching.

We will paddle from Graves Crossing to Rogers Road Bridge through cedar forests, wildlife habitat, and crystal-clear water on one of Michigan’s most beautiful natural rivers.

Paddle Details

* Shuttle to Rogers Road Bridge
* Moderate difficulty
* Moving water experience recommended
* Several hours on the water
* True wilderness-style paddling

Take-Out Location

Rogers Road Bridge

📍 45°07’57.93”N, 85°07’24.71”W

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⛺ Official Event Headquarters

🏕 Graves Crossing State Forest Campground

Official West Michigan Kayaking Club Weekend Basecamp

📍 GPS: 45.0346, -85.0651

📞 (231) 582-7523

🌐 https://www.michigan.gov/recsearch/sfcampgroundsa-m/gravescrossing

Campground Features

* Rustic state forest campground located directly on the Jordan River
* 10 first-come, first-served campsites
* Vault toilets
* Hand-pump potable water
* Direct river access
* Recreation Passport required for vehicle entry

📍 Address:

Graves Crossing Road

East Jordan, MI 49727

🔥 Saturday Evening Campfire

Following Saturday’s hike, participants are invited to gather at Graves Crossing State Forest Campground for a club campfire.

Whether you’re camping at Graves Crossing or staying elsewhere, everyone is welcome to join us for an evening of much needed relaxation and trip planning before Sunday’s paddle.

Bring a camp chair, snacks, beverages, and your favorite adventure stories.

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Additional Camping Options

🏕 Pinney Bridge State Forest Campground

📍 45°00’48.94”N, 85°01’48.16”W

📞 (231) 582-7523

🌐 https://www.michigan.gov/dnr

🏕 Wooden Shoe Campground – Ellsworth

📍 6625 Bridge St, Ellsworth, MI

📞 (231) 588-6382

🌐 https://woodenshoecampground.com

🏕 Chain O’ Lakes Camp – East Jordan Area

📍 5182 Simons Ln, East Jordan, MI

📞 (586) 201-7316

🏕 Young State Park – Boyne City

📍 2280 Boyne City Rd, Boyne City, MI

📞 (231) 582-7523

🌐 https://www.michigan.gov/youngstatepark

🏕 Whiting Park Campground – Boyne City Area

📍 5820 Lake Shore Rd, Boyne City, MI

📞 (231) 582-7040

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👥 Who This Is For

* Kayakers and paddlers
* Hikers and backpackers
* Adventure seekers
* Michigan wilderness explorers

Participants should be comfortable with longer hikes and several hours on moving water.

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⚠️ Important Information

Participants are responsible for:

* Transportation
* Camping arrangements
* Personal gear
* Meals and water
* Appropriate clothing and safety equipment

Shuttle coordination will take place on-site.

This is a club-led recreational outing and not a guided commercial trip.

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📲 RSVP

Join the West Michigan Kayaking Club community chat to RSVP, receive updates, and coordinate weekend logistics.

Adventure awaits in the heart of the Jordan River Valley!