Paddle Antrim is thrilled to host the 10th Annual Paddle Antrim Festival, taking place                                                                    September 11–13, 2025. Registration is now open and will close on September 7 at 11:59 pm.


The Paddle Antrim Festival is a fantastic way to experience the Chain of Lakes Water
Trail, which was recently designated as a Pure Michigan Water Trail—the only state-
designated water trail in Northern Michigan. This fun, non-competitive event welcomes
paddlers of all levels to participate for one or two days, with a variety of distance options
available. Participants will paddle through the picturesque communities of Ellsworth,
Central Lake, Bellaire, Alden, and Elk Rapids, while enjoying three days of community
events open to all.


With the option to paddle 7 to 42 miles over the weekend, this event showcases the
wide range of paddling opportunities Northern Michigan’s Chain of Lakes has to offer.
The first day features a series of small, calm lakes and interconnected rivers. On the
second day, paddlers can explore up to five lakes and two rivers, including the serene
Grass River and the larger waters of Torch Lake and Elk Lake. Shuttle service is
included with registration, and meals can be added on to make it a hassle-free
experience.


“We are excited to invite all levels of paddlers to grab their canoe, kayak, or
paddleboard and experience the diversity of paddling available on our pristine waters,”
says Deana Jerdee, Paddle Antrim’s executive director. “Paddlers come from all over
the state and the country to experience the beautiful Chain of Lakes Water Trail and the
wonderful hospitality each community has to offer.”

Community Events Open to All
The Festival isn’t just for paddlers—everyone is encouraged to join in the celebrations:
● Kickoff Party in Ellsworth – Thursday, September 11, 5:30–7:30 pm at River
Park featuring live music from Two Beats – hosted by The East Jordan Area
Chamber of Commerce
● Day 1 Celebration in Bellaire – Friday, September 12, 2:00–5:00 pm at Short’s
Bellaire Beer Garden – hosted by Short’s Brewing Company
● Final Bash in Elk Rapids – Saturday, September 13, 3:00–8:00 pm at Short’s
Pull Barn, featuring live music from The Headwaters Band – hosted by Short’s
Brewing Company
These family-friendly gatherings feature food, drinks, music, and plenty of fun for the
community.


The Paddle Antrim Festival is made possible thanks to generous sponsors, including
top sponsors Short’s Brewing Company and the Great Lakes Sports Commission.


Double Your Impact This September
The Festival is just one part of Paddle Antrim’s work to protect and enhance the Chain
of Lakes Water Trail. As a nonprofit, Paddle Antrim works year-round to expand and
improve paddling access, promote safety and environmental stewardship, and support
inclusive, community-driven recreation.


In celebration of the 10th Annual Festival, longtime participants and volunteers Sue
Haadsma-Svensson and Kjell Svensson are generously matching all donations made in
September—up to $10,000. That means every dollar donated will go twice as far to
protect our waterways and grow our paddling community.


Make your gift by September 30 to double your impact.
Donate today at paddleantrim.com/donate or visit the Paddle Antrim booth during the
Festival to learn more.


The Festival not only encourages folks to get out and enjoy the lakes and rivers but also
supports Paddle Antrim’s mission to protect the waterways through stewardship,
education, and increased access via the development of the Chain of Lakes Water Trail.
For additional information on Paddle Antrim, the Chain of Lakes Water Trail, or the
Paddle Antrim Festival, visit Paddle Antrim's website –
www.paddleantrim.com/festival – or contact Paddle Antrim at
info@paddleantrim.com or 231-498-2080.