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    1. Local experiences
    2. /Things to do in Indian River…
    3. /Water Activities
    4. /Kayaking Tours
    5. /Paddle Solo or Tandem Kayaks on the Sturgeon River
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    Paddle Solo or Tandem Kayaks on the Sturgeon River

    Take on the fast Sturgeon River in a sit-on-top solo or tandem kayak

    4.5 stars• 812 reviews

    Duration

    1.5-5 Hours

    Includes

    Solo kayak, Tandem kayak

    Highlights

    Paddle a solo or tandem sit-on-top kayak on the fast Sturgeon River. Choose a shorter route if you are new to this stretch and want to build confidence.

    • Choose a 1.5-hour trip for beginner to intermediate paddlers
    • Step up to 3 hours or more if you are an advanced paddler
    • Pick a solo Twister (up to 250 lbs) or Riviera (up to 300 lbs)
    • Share a tandem kayak (up to 450 lbs) with at least one adult preferred
    • Plan to steer, paddle, and push away from logs and sticks
    • Prepare for frequent tip-overs; kayaks have an 80% tip-over rate

    What's Included

    • Sit-on-top kayak rental (solo or tandem, based on selection)
    • High-back molded-in seat
    • Footwells
    • Cupholders
    • Flat cargo area

    Things to know

    You must be at least 14 to kayak solo. For tandem kayaks, at least one person age 18+ is preferred. Your entire group must be present for check-in, and you are responsible for lost, stolen, or damaged equipment.

    Cancellation Policy

    Full refund with 48 hours notice of cancellation. Full refund if the operator cancels due to weather or other unforeseen circumstances. No-shows will be charged the full price.

    Product ID: 4Y27AX

    FAQs

    You must be at least 14 years old to kayak by yourself. On a tandem kayak, at least one person age 18+ is preferred.

    Bring sunscreen, water bottles, and snacks.

    Yes. Your entire group must be present for the check-in process before your trip.

    Meeting details

    Big Bear Adventures, 4271 S Straits Hwy, Indian River, MI 49749

    Experience provided by Big Bear Adventures

    Related locations

    How can we help?

    We are here to assist with special requests, large groups, last minute needs, and any questions you may have.

    Call or text 1-877-GREET-WELL

    Report an issue

    1.5 Hour Solo Kayak Rental

    $34

    Ages 14+

    0

    1.5 Hour Tandem Kayak Rental

    $68

    One person ages 18+ (Preferred)

    0

    3 Hour Solo Kayak Rental

    $49.35

    Ages 14+

    0

    Why book through Greetwell?

    • No Added Fees

      No booking or service fees, ever

    • Concierge Support Included

      Real humans ready to help with timing, questions, or special requests

    • Free Cancellation Available

      Most experiences can be cancelled for a full refund

    Discover what we've curated for you

    Review summary

    4.5
    Excellent
    812 reviews•Google Maps
    559
    108
    28
    20
    46

    Big Bear Adventures offers multiple activities that keep families coming back, from mini golf that's been a local favorite for decades to guided side-by-side tours and river tubing on the crystal-clear Sturgeon River. Dave stands out repeatedly as an exceptional guide who prioritizes safety while keeping groups engaged and entertained on the scenic trail rides. The staff generally gets praise for being friendly and helpful, especially when explaining everything to first-timers. A few operational hiccups pop up in recent feedback. Some visitors arrived to find no staff available to help, which meant missing out on activities entirely. River conditions can vary dramatically, and a couple reviewers felt the difficulty level wasn't communicated clearly enough, particularly for tubing trips after storms when debris made navigation challenging. Safety equipment like life vests and paddles aren't always standard issue. Most visitors leave thrilled with their experience though, and many specifically mention plans to return.

    What people are saying

    Review 1 of 3
    5/5

    We’ve come to Big Bear Adventures for over 20 yrs. Kayaking is the best ever on the Sturgeon River. It’s always a highlight of our annual summer trips! Great service too!

    Photo of Barbara Bulen

    Barbara Bulen

    August 28, 2026

    Review 1 of 1
    5/5

    We’ve come to Big Bear Adventures for over 20 yrs. Kayaking is the best ever on the Sturgeon River. It’s always a highlight of our annual summer trips! Great service too!

    Photo of Barbara Bulen

    Barbara Bulen

    August 28, 2026

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