BEGIN:VCALENDAR VERSION:2.0 PRODID:-//Uncommon Adventures - ECPv6.3.3.1//NONSGML v1.0//EN CALSCALE:GREGORIAN METHOD:PUBLISH X-WR-CALNAME:Uncommon Adventures X-ORIGINAL-URL:https://www.mi-paddleadventure.com X-WR-CALDESC:Events for Uncommon Adventures REFRESH-INTERVAL;VALUE=DURATION:PT1H X-Robots-Tag:noindex X-PUBLISHED-TTL:PT1H BEGIN:VTIMEZONE TZID:UTC BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:+0000 TZOFFSETTO:+0000 TZNAME:UTC DTSTART:20240101T000000 END:STANDARD END:VTIMEZONE BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20240309 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20240317 DTSTAMP:20240329T124305 CREATED:20230228T182745Z LAST-MODIFIED:20240118T174000Z UID:3569-1709942400-1710633599@www.mi-paddleadventure.com SUMMARY:DOMINICA: Caribbean Ocean Skills Week! DESCRIPTION:A winter kayak trip to the Caribbean sounds nice\, doesn’t it? What if your idea of a kayak isn’t a resort sit-on-top? What if you might like to paddle some distance\, play in some surf\, nail that roll and get comfortable bracing in warm clear water? How about a place where you can do all that in genuine enthusiast kayaks (think Nigel Dennis) with solid coaches and local guides. Add in 5000-foot mountains\, waterfalls\, rivers\, clear water\, jungle excursions\, direct flight access from Miami\, English speaking natives and a water trail and you have a winner! \nDominica lies nestled between Guadeloupe and Martinique down South of the Virgin Islands. It is served by American Airlines by direct daily flights from Miami and Puerto Rico. Unlike other destinations in the West Indies\, this island is not home to myriad all-inclusive resorts and carpeted with beach goers. Dominica is a natural paradise of mountains\, tropical forest\, waterfalls\, rivers and NATURE\, which is a resource they protect and show off. A crew of ambitious locals got together with Nigel Dennis to bring in a superb fleet of expedition kayaks in all shapes and sizes to access a new national water trail that shows off its western coastline\, with stops at guesthouses along the way. Whether your home boat is a Romany Surf\, a Pilgrim\, an LV or HV Explorer\, you can be sure to find it here. We’ll be based out of a comfortable guest house (not camping)\, with family style meals and fantastic paddling options. You can count on some fine meals with Michael and the team sharing the kitchen too! \nYour Skill Development: This trip is appropriate for anyone with Level 3 skills or equivalent and above who want to level up. We can include skills assessments or a Trip Leader Training during the week if you like. Need an ACA Instructor Update? Yes\, we can do that too. You may as well really make this trip count! \nIntrigued? Here’s a sample itinerary: \n\nSample Itinerary\nARRIVAL DAY\n\nWelcome Dinner and Trip Briefing\nSulphur Springs hike behind the Guesthouse\n\nDAY 2 – Flat Water Skills and Welcome to Dominica Paddle and Snorkel\n\n• Afternoon: Bubble Beach for sunset\n\nDAY 3: Stroke Practice and Rescues; Paddle into the Martinique Channel\n\nBoat control and rescues\nPaddle across Soufriere Bay into the Martinique Channel\n\nDAY 4: Land Excursions plus Local Culture\n\nHike around Freshwater lake\nLearn about Maroon communities in Dominica\nTito Gorge Swim\n Return to Soufriere. Pack for Layou River\n\nDAY 5: Light Surf Skills\n\nDrive to Layou River\nKayak Layou River\nPractice surfing at the mouth of the river\n\nDAY 6: Open Coastal Skills on the Atlantic Coast\n\nWeather permitting\, drive to an East coast location\nTest open coastal skills on the Atlantic Coast\nReturn to Soufriere\n\nDAY 7: Community Day: More Kayaking\, Optional Local Trips\, Add-Ons\n\nSkills debrief and review; work on new skills\, try different boats\nHike the Galleon Loop\nHike Segment One or Segment Two of the Waitukubli trail\nSulphur Springs….other choices as well\nFinal Dinner and celebration\n\nDay 8: Depart: Breakfast and transfers back to airport\n  \n\n \nDates for 2024\n\nMarch 9-16\, 2024\n\nWhat’s Included\n\nAirport Transfers on Dominica\nDorm or Double occupancy lodging (single supplement available)\nUncommon Adventures paddling coach and a local guide\nThe best fleet of kayaks found anywhere\nBreakfasts and lunches and some dinners\nActivity and trail fees\n\nWhat’s Not Included\n\nAirfares to and from Dominica\nPre and post trip lodging and activities\nTravel Insurance (Highly recommended)\nGuide gratuity (5-10% suggested)\nAlcoholic beverages\nDinners out at local restaurants along the trail\n\nPersonal Items: Be sure to review the packing list: It is important that you review this list early on in case you have questions or need to order gear. \nFAQs\nFrequently Asked Questions \n\n\n \n\n\nRegistration\nNOTE: If a booking date shows on the calendar below\, there is space available but always feel free to call or email with specific questions. If the trip is full and you’d like to be waitlisted\, give us a call. \nReservations are held with a $500 deposit. The price below reflects the full amount\, including service fees; However\, your initial payment will be a $500 deposit (assuming you book 60+ days prior to the course). \nThe remaining amount due will be automatically charged to your credit card 60 days before the trip. \nNOTE: You must choose the date of the trip you want before clicking on BOOK NOW. Be sure you are on the right month! You may need to choose the fare you want and then zero out the fare that the system initially chooses. Let us know if you have any difficulty. \n\nView our Refund / Cancellation PolicyView our COVID Risk Management Statement URL:https://www.mi-paddleadventure.com/trip/dominica-caribbean-ocean-skills-week/ LOCATION:WI CATEGORIES:Bucket List Trips,Dominica,Kayak Instruction,Lodge Based,Multi-day Trips ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.mi-paddleadventure.com/wp-content/uploads/97779702-7F18-4748-A8EC-C86C2F9D3E34.png ORGANIZER;CN="Uncommon Adventures":MAILTO:email END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20240511 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20240515 DTSTAMP:20240329T124305 CREATED:20231112T164726Z LAST-MODIFIED:20231112T174032Z UID:4099-1715385600-1715731199@www.mi-paddleadventure.com SUMMARY:ACA Coastal Kayaking: Level 3 Skills Training and Optional Assessment DESCRIPTION: URL:https://www.mi-paddleadventure.com/trip/aca-coastal-kayaking-level-3-skills-training-and-optional-assessment-2/ LOCATION:WI CATEGORIES:Great Lakes,Kayak Instruction,Lodge Based,Multi-day Trips ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.mi-paddleadventure.com/wp-content/uploads/instr-1.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20240517 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20240520 DTSTAMP:20240329T124305 CREATED:20240307T132131Z LAST-MODIFIED:20240307T132527Z UID:4247-1715904000-1716163199@www.mi-paddleadventure.com SUMMARY:L3 ACA Coastal Kayak Instructor IDW or ICE or Update DESCRIPTION:Uncommon Adventures will be co-teaching an ACA Coastal Kayak Instructor IDW or ICE or Update (depending on your needs) with Greg Weiss at Lost Creek Adventures in Cornucopia Wisconsin – gateway to the Apostle Islands! For more information and registration see: Lost Creek Adventures URL:https://www.mi-paddleadventure.com/trip/l3-aca-coastal-kayak-instructor-idw-or-ice-or-update/ LOCATION:Lost Creek Adventures\, 22475 Hwy 13\, Cornucopia\, WI\, 54827\, United States CATEGORIES:Great Lakes,Kayak Instruction ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.mi-paddleadventure.com/wp-content/uploads/jeremy-vore-instruction-4.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20240523 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20240527 DTSTAMP:20240329T124305 CREATED:20240204T003052Z LAST-MODIFIED:20240205T015509Z UID:4212-1716422400-1716767999@www.mi-paddleadventure.com SUMMARY:Sleeping Bear Sampler Remix: Learn to Kayak Boot Camp 2024 DESCRIPTION:We’ve refined this program that has been popular for more than 10 years as a great way for people to explore kayaking or to refine current skills. Enjoy a weekend spent at our home on 40 acres of hardwoods along the beautiful Betsie River. This long weekend retreat will give you enough time to explore a number of our better local paddling opportunities. Each trip is a bit different and built around your interests and goals with built in flexibility. \nWe can mix and match some open water paddling instruction along the bluffs and dunes with some river paddling if that is what you are after. Eagles\, Osprey\, mink\, trout and bass are all resident members of the local wildlife population that we get to share our trips with. We can also see incredible dune faces\, cruising fish and possibly even some shipwrecks that can be seen from our kayaks on calm days. \nKayaking is one way to interact with water. There are a lot of different disciplines…whitewater\, simple small lake and river recreational kayaking\, sea kayaking\, surf kayaking\, Olympic slalom\, Greenland style traditional; hard to know what direction to go you have a better idea of what kind of kayaking you develop an interest in. You yourself probably won’t know until you get some time on the water. It’s a llfesport that can evolve as you do. We urge you not to invest too much in any sort of kayaking gear until you get some instructional time and you have a better sense of what style of paddling and venue you have available to you. You’ll make better purchase decisions. In addition to the beautiful scenery\, this program will introduce all styles and the commonalities between them\, but we do use primarily touring/sea kayaks in our programs. \n\nItinerary\nDay 1\nArrive after dinner between 7-8 PM. We’ll get acquainted\, settled and provide an orientation for the rest of the weekend. \nDay 2\nGet fitted for kayaks and gear and head to our inland lake training site for some hands-on skills. Learn forward\, back\, turning and sideways strokes as well as what to do when you capsize. Dinner BBQ here at Casa de Kayak followed by kayak videos\, tall tales and good night’s sleep. \nDay 3\nDepending on weather\, we’ll head north for a longer paddle to enjoy some dune and island views\, maybe a shipwreck and a swim. We’ll gather for dinner at a local restaurant/pub after we get off the water. Whether we’re in soggy sandals or wetsuits\, we’ll be welcome for some great food and drink after a good day of paddling. \nDay 4\nAfter a fine brunch\, we’ll gear up for a sweet little river trip through the backyard to give you a little moving water experience and balance out a weekend of grand vistas. We’ll turn you loose for home or other adventures at about 2 PM \n\n \nDates for 2024\n\n May 23 – 26 \nJune 1 – 4 \nJune 20 – 23 (See our “Sleeping Bear Remix: RnR” Post for this date)\n \nWhat’s Included:\n\nACA Qualified Instructors\nQuality on and off-water instruction\nKayak\, sprayskirts\, paddle\, and PFD (unless you choose to bring your own\nRustic river home accommodations or camping site (depending on registration)\nThree breakfasts\nTwo dinners (Plan to eat out at a local establishment one night)\n\n\nWhat’s Not Included and What You Should Bring:\n\nTransportation to the site\nFarmer John/Jane style wetsuit: for May/June/September/October\, can be rented from us for a flat rate of $20. Drysuit if you have one.\nSynthetic or wool long underwear: polypropylene\, polyester\, coolmax\, etc….anything but cotton\, both tops and bottoms\, can be worn under shorts too for a very comfortable if not very stylish ensemble.\nFleece jacket\nPaddling jacket or rain parka.\nNeoprene boots: We try to discourage sandals because they can get tangled in footrests….and that’s bad if you’re upside down.\nSunscreen\nSunhat\nReusable water bottle — please DO NOT bring single use plastic water bottles. \nLunch supplies (refrigerator available)\nSnacks\nAlcohol or preferred adult beverages\nOne dinner at a local establishment\nGuide Gratuity (Suggested 5-10% of trip cost)\n\n\n\n \n\n\nRegistration\nNOTE: If a booking date shows on the calendar below\, there is space available but always feel free to call or email with specific questions. If the trip is full and you’d like to be waitlisted\, give us a call. \nReservations are held with a $300 deposit. The price below reflects the full amount\, including service fees; However\, your initial payment will be a $300 deposit (assuming you book 30+ days prior to the course). \nThe remaining amount due will be automatically charged to your credit card 30 days before the trip. \nNOTE: You must choose the date of the trip you want before clicking on BOOK NOW. Be sure you are on the right month! \n\nView our Refund / Cancellation Policy \nView our COVID Risk Management Statement \nShopping for someone else? Buy a Gift Card! URL:https://www.mi-paddleadventure.com/trip/sleeping-bear-sampler-4/ LOCATION:Uncommon Adventures\, Street Address: 6721 Grace Rd\, Benzonia\, MI\, 49616\, United States CATEGORIES:Great Lakes,Kayak Instruction,Lodge Based ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.mi-paddleadventure.com/wp-content/uploads/sleeping-bear.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="Uncommon Adventures":MAILTO:email END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20240601 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20240605 DTSTAMP:20240329T124305 CREATED:20231112T180753Z LAST-MODIFIED:20231112T181122Z UID:4110-1717200000-1717545599@www.mi-paddleadventure.com SUMMARY:Sleeping Bear Sampler Remix: Learn to Kayak Boot Camp 2024 DESCRIPTION: URL:https://www.mi-paddleadventure.com/trip/sleeping-bear-sampler-remix-learn-to-kayak-boot-camp-2024-2/ LOCATION:Uncommon Adventures\, Street Address: 6721 Grace Rd\, Benzonia\, MI\, 49616\, United States CATEGORIES:Great Lakes,Kayak Instruction,Lodge Based,Multi-day Trips ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.mi-paddleadventure.com/wp-content/uploads/sleeping-bear-2.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20240606 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20240610 DTSTAMP:20240329T124305 CREATED:20160713T005827Z LAST-MODIFIED:20231112T173742Z UID:712-1717632000-1717977599@www.mi-paddleadventure.com SUMMARY:ACA Coastal Kayaking: Level 3 Skills Training and Optional Assessment DESCRIPTION:This 24 hour + course includes the latest ACA course requirements for Level 3 with some additional tools that only 30 plus years of paddling history can provide. We combine “Coastal Kayak Basic Strokes and Rescues” along with a “Strokes and Maneuver’s refinement” and group leadership on water. On land we’ll cover practical navigation\, radio use\, rules of the navigable road and emergency equipment. In the water\, we’ll cover a variety of group and solo rescues\, bracing\, boat handling and towing scenarios. \nThis workshop is held in our Northwest Michigan base\, giving us access to multiple venues to provide a variety of conditions including moving water. Since food is provided and we’re all based out of the same location with a instructor/student ratio of 1:3\, you are assured of a great inclusive experience tailored to your learning style. \nLearn more about ACA Instructor Training Course and Levels. \nYou will also have access to a wide variety of kayaks\, paddling gear and rescue gear to supplement what you bring to the table. Expect to have rec boats and possibly even SUPs thrown into the mix\, so you learn how to rescue in a wide variety of scenarios. You’ll work hard\, eat hearty and have more fun than anyone should be allowed during an “instructional” program! \nPrerequisites\nBasic forward strokes\, wet exits and ACA membership. \n\nItinerary\nDay 1\nArrival between 1-3 pm. Land school portion begins at 4 pm. Dinner at base. \nDay 2\nInland water strokes and rescues work (after breakfast). All day on-water. Dinner at base with evening navigation work. \nDay 3\nLake Michigan trip (7 miles away) for practice in “conditions”. \nDay 4\nStroke Tune-up & assessment. We should have you on the road between 4 and 5 pm. \n\nDates for 2024\nMay 11 – 14\nJune 6 – 9 \nWhat’s Included\nThe course fee includes ACA L-4\, BCU Coach Instructor\, rustic river home accommodations\, two breakfasts and two dinners*. \nIf you would like to do meals and lodging on your own\, you may opt for just the ACA course. Another option is camping onsite (with access to bathrooms)\, meals* included. \n*We provide two hearty breakfasts and two delicious dinners. Lunches and additional meals are “on your own”. Did you know Michael is a great cook? He can adapt to special dietary requirements if you let him know in advance. \n\nWhat’s Not Included and What You Should Bring\n\nTransportation to the site\n15′ + sea kayak with floatation fore and aft\, paddle\, pump\, sprayskirt\, towbelt\, compass (orienteering style)\, basic repair supplies. Let us know if you need to borrow an appropriate kayak and gear\, we have lots of different loaners available.\nFarmer John/Jane style wetsuit: for May/June/September/October\, can be rented from us for a flat rate of $20. Drysuit if you have one.\nSynthetic or wool long underwear: polypropylene\, polyester\, coolmax\, etc….anything but cotton\, both tops and bottoms\, can be worn under shorts too for a very comfortable if not very stylish ensemble.\nFleece jacket\nPaddling jacket or rain parka.\nNeoprene boots: We try to discourage sandals because they can get tangled in footrests….and that’s bad if you’re upside down.\nSunscreen\nSunhat\nReusable water bottle — please DO NOT bring single use plastic water bottles. \nLunch supplies (refrigerator available)\nSnacks\nAlcohol or preferred adult beverages\nOne dinner at a local establishment\nGuide Gratuity (Suggested 5-10% of trip cost)\n\n\n \n\n\nRegistration\nNOTE: If a booking date shows on the calendar below\, there is space available but always feel free to call or email with specific questions. If the trip is full and you’d like to be waitlisted\, give us a call. \nReservations are held with a $300 deposit. The price below reflects the full amount\, including service fees; However\, your initial payment will be a $300 deposit (assuming you book 30+ days prior to the course). \nThe remaining amount due will be automatically charged to your credit card 30 days before the trip. \nNOTE: You must choose the date of the trip you want before clicking on BOOK NOW. Be sure you are on the right month! \n\nView our Refund / Cancellation Policy \nView our COVID Risk Management Statement \nShopping for someone else? Buy a Gift Card! URL:https://www.mi-paddleadventure.com/trip/aca-coastal-kayaking-level-3-4-skills-training-assessment/ LOCATION:Uncommon Adventures\, Street Address: 6721 Grace Rd\, Benzonia\, MI\, 49616\, United States CATEGORIES:Great Lakes,Kayak Instruction,Lodge Based,Multi-day Trips ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.mi-paddleadventure.com/wp-content/uploads/instr-1.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="Uncommon Adventures":MAILTO:email END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20240616T080000 DTEND;TZID=UTC:20240616T120000 DTSTAMP:20240329T124305 CREATED:20240123T145002Z LAST-MODIFIED:20240204T001929Z UID:4137-1718524800-1718539200@www.mi-paddleadventure.com SUMMARY:Fundamentals of Kayaking I DESCRIPTION:Student to instructor ratio: 5:1 maximum\nBeginning with “land school”\, you’ll learn a bit about what kayaks work best for what conditions\, choosing gear\, boat fit\, dressing for paddling\, kayak and paddle design\, carrying and loading kayaks… before we even leave the beach! Next you will learn good techniques for fundamental kayaking strokes: forward\, backward and stop. You will also learn to stabilize your kayak with a solid low brace and turning with sweep strokes. The final part of the kayaking class will be spent working on “wet exits” and group rescue practice\, including a variety of methods of T-Rescue. (4 hour course) \nPlease come prepared with drinking water and appropriate clothing for immersion: quick dry layers (no cotton)\, a wetsuit if you have it and any kayaking gear of your own. Meet up by 9 am at 6721 Grace Road\, Benzonia\, 49616. \nDates for 2023\nJune 16\, 8am – Noon\n (Contact us for a discount code if you plan to do the full day Fundamentals I and II) \nWhat’s Included: \n\nACA Qualified Instructors\nQuality on and off-water instruction\nKayak\, sprayskirts\, paddle\, and PFD (unless you choose to bring your own\n\n What’s Not Included and What You Should Bring: \n\nTransportation to the site\nFarmer John/Jane style wetsuit: for May/June/September/October\, can be rented from us for a flat rate of $20. Drysuit if you have one.\nWater; Reusable water bottle — please DO NOT bring single use plastic water bottles.\nSunscreen\nBrimmed hat\nSunglasses with retainer\nNon-cotton shorts/pants and shirt. For example\, Synthetic or wool long underwear: polypropylene\, polyester\, coolmax\, etc….anything but cotton\, both tops and bottoms. \nWater shoes or neoprene booties – no sandals\, if possible. We try to discourage sandals because they can get tangled in footrests….and that’s bad if you’re upside down.\nPaddling jacket or rain parka.\nTowel and dry clothes (something warm) to change into after the lesson\nSnack\nLunch supplies (if you are doing both Foundations I and II – Full Day)\nGuide Gratuity\n\n\n \n\n\nRegistration\n \n\nNOTE: If a booking date shows on the calendar below\, there is space available but always feel free to call or email with specific questions. If the trip is full and you’d like to be waitlisted\, give us a call. \nReservations are held with payment. The price below reflects the full amount\, including service fees. \nNOTE: You must choose the date of the trip you want before clicking on BOOK NOW. Be sure you are on the right month! \n\n\nView our Refund / Cancellation Policy\nView our COVID Risk Management Statement URL:https://www.mi-paddleadventure.com/trip/fundamentals-of-kayaking-i/ LOCATION:Uncommon Adventures\, Street Address: 6721 Grace Rd\, Benzonia\, MI\, 49616\, United States CATEGORIES:Kayak Instruction ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.mi-paddleadventure.com/wp-content/uploads/aisling-instr2.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="Uncommon Adventures":MAILTO:email END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20240616T130000 DTEND;TZID=UTC:20240616T170000 DTSTAMP:20240329T124305 CREATED:20240123T223729Z LAST-MODIFIED:20240205T020734Z UID:4150-1718542800-1718557200@www.mi-paddleadventure.com SUMMARY:Fundamentals of Kayaking II DESCRIPTION:Student to instructor ratio: 5:1 max.\nStep 2 on your path to better paddling skills. After an initial assessment of your kayaking skills\, you will learn stroke enhancements that will help you turn better and travel forward with less energy expended. After a stroke tune-up\, we’ll introduce you to better bracing\, which can help you further avoid those nasty immersions\, bow rescues\, non-roll solo rescues (paddle rescue float\, etc.) and the components of a successful roll will then be covered during the “wet” session. You’ll also be introduced to “risk management” as it relates to sea kayaking in the places you plan to play. (4 hour course) \nDates for 2023\nJune 16\, 1pm – 5pm\n(Contact us for a discount code if you plan to do the full day Fundamentals I and II)\n\nWhat’s Included: \n\nACA Qualified Instructors\nQuality on and off-water instruction\nKayak\, sprayskirts\, paddle\, and PFD (unless you choose to bring your own\n\n What’s Not Included and What You Should Bring: \n\nTransportation to the site\nFarmer John/Jane style wetsuit: for May/June/September/October\, can be rented from us for a flat rate of $20. Drysuit if you have one.\nWater; Reusable water bottle — please DO NOT bring single use plastic water bottles.\nSunscreen\nBrimmed hat\nSunglasses with retainer\nNon-cotton shorts/pants and shirt. For example\, Synthetic or wool long underwear: polypropylene\, polyester\, coolmax\, etc….anything but cotton\, both tops and bottoms. \nWater shoes or neoprene booties – no sandals\, if possible. We try to discourage sandals because they can get tangled in footrests….and that’s bad if you’re upside down.\nPaddling jacket or rain parka.\nTowel and dry clothes (something warm) to change into after the lesson\nSnack\nLunch supplies (if you are doing both Foundations I and II – Full Day)\nGuide Gratuity\n\n\n \n\n\nRegistration\n\nNOTE: If a booking date shows on the calendar below\, there is space available but always feel free to call or email with specific questions. If the trip is full and you’d like to be waitlisted\, give us a call. \nReservations are held with payment. The price below reflects the full amount\, including service fees. \nNOTE: You must choose the date of the trip you want before clicking on BOOK NOW. Be sure you are on the right month! \n\nView our Refund / Cancellation Policy\nView our COVID Risk Management Statement URL:https://www.mi-paddleadventure.com/trip/fundamentals-of-kayaking-ii/ LOCATION:Uncommon Adventures\, Street Address: 6721 Grace Rd\, Benzonia\, MI\, 49616\, United States CATEGORIES:Kayak Instruction ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.mi-paddleadventure.com/wp-content/uploads/sleeping-bear.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="Uncommon Adventures":MAILTO:email END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20240620 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20240624 DTSTAMP:20240329T124305 CREATED:20240116T162310Z LAST-MODIFIED:20240204T230012Z UID:4128-1718841600-1719187199@www.mi-paddleadventure.com SUMMARY:Sleeping Bear Sampler: Rescues and Rolling (RnR) Kayak Skills 2024 DESCRIPTION:Although this program runs on the same schedule as our other boot camp weekends\, this one is focused on Rescues and Recoveries…whether it be group or self rescues including rolling. That doesn’t mean we won’t get out and do some paddling\, but it does mean that rescue scenarios and rolling for real may be part of it. So\, if you have been through a few strokes clinics and have some rescue skills already under your belt\, this is a way to broaden that skill set and test them in a supportive setting where you’ve got plenty of safety nets in place….the group. Whatever kayak you use\, you’ll learn to expand your capabilities with it. \nKayaking is one way to interact with water. There are a lot of different disciplines…whitewater\, simple small lake and river recreational kayaking\, sea kayaking\, surf kayaking\, olympic slalom\, Greenland style traditional; hard to know what direction to go you have a better idea of what kind of kayaking you develop an interest in. You yourself probably won’t know until you get some time on the water. It’s a llfesport that can evolve as you do. We urge you not to invest too much in any sort of kayaking gear until you get some instructional time and you have a better sense of what style of paddling and venue you have available to you. You’ll make better purchase decisions. In addition to the beautiful scenery\, this program will introduce all styles and the commonalities between them\, but we do use primarily touring/sea kayaks in our programs.\n Note that this RnR weekend will focus on improving rescue and rolling skills. \n\nItinerary\nDay 1\nArrive after dinner between 7-9 PM. We’ll get acquainted\, settled and provide an orientation for the rest of the weekend. \nDay 2\nGet fitted for kayaks and gear and head to our inland lake training site for some hands-on skills. The focus for the weekend will be on practicing different types of rescues with all types of boats and situations. Lots of scenarios and decision making! We’ll start learning the skills necessary to roll. Dinner BBQ here at Casa de Kayak followed by kayak videos\, tall tales and good night’s sleep. \nDay 3\nDepending on weather\, we’ll find a local water source appropriate for both learning skills and sightseeing in the area. We’ll gather for dinner at a local restaurant/pub after we get off the water. Whether we’re in soggy sandals or wetsuits\, we’ll be welcome for some great food and drink after a good day of paddling. \nDay 4\nAfter a fine brunch\, we’ll gear up for a morning session on things you want to work on\, focusing on ideal to real and finding safe work-arounds for challenges. We should have you back on the road by 2pm. \n\n \nDates for 2024\nJune 20 – 23 \n \nWhat’s Included:\n\nACA Qualified Instructors\nQuality on and off-water instruction\nKayak\, sprayskirts\, paddle\, and PFD (unless you choose to bring your own\nRustic river home accommodations or camping site (depending on registration)\nThree breakfasts\nTwo dinners (Plan to eat out at a local establishment one night)\n\n\nWhat’s Not Included and What You Should Bring:\n\nTransportation to the site\nFarmer John/Jane style wetsuit: for May/June/September/October\, can be rented from us for a flat rate of $20. Drysuit if you have one.\nSynthetic or wool long underwear: polypropylene\, polyester\, coolmax\, etc….anything but cotton\, both tops and bottoms\, can be worn under shorts too for a very comfortable if not very stylish ensemble.\nFleece jacket\nPaddling jacket or rain parka.\nNeoprene boots: We try to discourage sandals because they can get tangled in footrests….and that’s bad if you’re upside down.\nSunscreen\nSunhat\nReusable water bottle — please DO NOT bring single use plastic water bottles. \nLunch supplies (refrigerator available)\nSnacks\nAlcohol or preferred adult beverages\nOne dinner at a local establishment\nGuide Gratuity (Suggested 5-10% of trip cost)\n\n\n\n \n\n\nRegistration\nNOTE: If a booking date shows on the calendar below\, there is space available but always feel free to call or email with specific questions. If the trip is full and you’d like to be waitlisted\, give us a call. \nReservations are held with a $300 deposit. The price below reflects the full amount\, including service fees; However\, your initial payment will be a $300 deposit (assuming you book 30+ days prior to the course). \nThe remaining amount due will be automatically charged to your credit card 30 days before the trip. \nNOTE: You must choose the date of the trip you want before clicking on BOOK NOW. Be sure you are on the right month! \n\nView our Refund / Cancellation Policy \nView our COVID Risk Management Statement \nShopping for someone else? Buy a Gift Card! URL:https://www.mi-paddleadventure.com/trip/sleeping-bear-sampler-rescues-and-rolling-kayak-skills-2024/ LOCATION:Uncommon Adventures\, Street Address: 6721 Grace Rd\, Benzonia\, MI\, 49616\, United States CATEGORIES:Great Lakes,Kayak Instruction,Lodge Based,Multi-day Trips ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.mi-paddleadventure.com/wp-content/uploads/instruction-3.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="Uncommon Adventures":MAILTO:email END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20240627 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20240701 DTSTAMP:20240329T124305 CREATED:20171116T152025Z LAST-MODIFIED:20231112T172645Z UID:2050-1719446400-1719791999@www.mi-paddleadventure.com SUMMARY:ACA Coastal Kayaking: Level 2 Instructor Certification Workshop (ICW) DESCRIPTION:This workshop is held near Traverse City in Northwest Michigan\, giving us access to multiple venues to provide a variety of conditions including moving water. Since food is provided and we’re all based out of the same location with a instructor/student ratio of 1:3\, you are assured of a great inclusive experience tailored to your learning style. \nLearn more about ACA Instructor Training Course and Levels. \nYou will also have access to a wide variety of kayaks\, paddling gear and rescue gear to supplement what you bring to the table. Expect to have rec boats and possibly even SUPs thrown into the mix\, so you learn how to rescue in a wide variety of scenarios. You’ll work hard\, eat hearty and have more fun than anyone should be allowed during an “instructional” program! \nPrerequisites\nBasic forward strokes\, wet exits and ACA membership.\n \n \nDates for 2024\nJune 27 – 30 \nWhat’s Included\nThe course fee includes ACA L-4\, BCU Coach Instructor\, rustic river home accommodations\, two breakfasts and two dinners*. \nIf you would like to do meals and lodging on your own\, you may opt for just the ACA course. Another option is camping onsite (with access to bathrooms)\, meals* included. \n*We provide two hearty breakfasts and two delicious dinners. Lunches and additional meals are “on your own”. Did you know Michael is a great cook? He can adapt to special dietary requirements if you let him know in advance. \n\nWhat’s Not Included and What You Should Bring\n\nTransportation to the site\n15′ + sea kayak with floatation fore and aft\, paddle\, pump\, sprayskirt\, towbelt\, compass (orienteering style)\, basic repair supplies. Let us know if you need to borrow an appropriate kayak and gear\, we have lots of different loaners available.\nFarmer John/Jane style wetsuit: for May/June/September/October\, can be rented from us for a flat rate of $20. Drysuit if you have one.\nSynthetic or wool long underwear: polypropylene\, polyester\, coolmax\, etc….anything but cotton\, both tops and bottoms\, can be worn under shorts too for a very comfortable if not very stylish ensemble.\nFleece jacket\nPaddling jacket or rain parka.\nNeoprene boots: We try to discourage sandals because they can get tangled in footrests….and that’s bad if you’re upside down.\nSunscreen\nSunhat\nReusable water bottle — please DO NOT bring single use plastic water bottles. \nLunch supplies (refrigerator available)\nSnacks\nAlcohol or preferred adult beverages\nOne dinner at a local establishment\nGuide Gratuity (Suggested 5-10% of trip cost)\n\n\n \n\n\nRegistration\nNOTE: If a booking date shows on the calendar below\, there is space available but always feel free to call or email with specific questions. If the trip is full and you’d like to be waitlisted\, give us a call. \nReservations are held with a $300 deposit. The price below reflects the full amount\, including service fees; However\, your initial payment will be a $300 deposit (assuming you book 30+ days prior to the course). \nThe remaining amount due will be automatically charged to your credit card 30 days before the trip. \nNOTE: You must choose the date of the trip you want before clicking on BOOK NOW. Be sure you are on the right month! \n\nView our Refund / Cancellation Policy \nView our COVID Risk Management Statement \nShopping for someone else? Buy a Gift Card! URL:https://www.mi-paddleadventure.com/trip/aca-coastal-kayaking-level-2-instructor-development-workshop-idw/ LOCATION:Uncommon Adventures\, Street Address: 6721 Grace Rd\, Benzonia\, MI\, 49616\, United States CATEGORIES:Great Lakes,Kayak Instruction,Lodge Based,Multi-day Trips ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.mi-paddleadventure.com/wp-content/uploads/instruction-4.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="Uncommon Adventures":MAILTO:email END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20240627T090000 DTEND;TZID=UTC:20240627T160000 DTSTAMP:20240329T124305 CREATED:20220318T203825Z LAST-MODIFIED:20240123T144453Z UID:3045-1719478800-1719504000@www.mi-paddleadventure.com SUMMARY:ACA Coastal Kayaking: Level 2 Skills Training Day DESCRIPTION:This 9-4 pm workshop is designed to give people an intensive one day experience working on efficient strokes\, kayak maneuvering along with self and group rescues. Risk management\, kayaking safety gear\, basic weather and basic trip planning will also be covered. It is an ideal day spent to prepare for the L2 Instructor course to improve your odds of passing at your highest level. \nPlease come prepared with lunch\, drinking water and appropriate clothing for immersion: quick dry layers (no cotton)\, a wetsuit if you have it and any kayaking gear of your own. Meet up by 9 am at 6721 Grace Road\, Benzonia\, 49616. \nLearn more about ACA Instructor Training Course and Levels. \nPrerequisites\nBasic forward strokes\, wet exits and ACA membership.\n \nDates for 2023\nJune 27\, 9AM – 4PM \nWhat’s Included\nThe course fee includes ACA L-4\, BCU Coach Instructor\, rustic river home accommodations\, two breakfasts and two dinners*. \nIf you would like to do meals and lodging on your own\, you may opt for just the ACA course. Another option is camping onsite (with access to bathrooms)\, meals* included. \n*We provide two hearty breakfasts and two delicious dinners. Lunches and additional meals are “on your own”. Did you know Michael is a great cook? He can adapt to special dietary requirements if you let him know in advance. \n\nWhat’s Not Included and What You Should Bring\n\nTransportation to the site\n15′ + sea kayak with floatation fore and aft\, paddle\, pump\, sprayskirt\, towbelt\, compass (orienteering style)\, basic repair supplies. Let us know if you need to borrow an appropriate kayak and gear\, we have lots of different loaners available.\nFarmer John/Jane style wetsuit: for May/June/September/October\, can be rented from us for a flat rate of $20. Drysuit if you have one.\nSynthetic or wool long underwear: polypropylene\, polyester\, coolmax\, etc….anything but cotton\, both tops and bottoms\, can be worn under shorts too for a very comfortable if not very stylish ensemble.\nFleece jacket\nPaddling jacket or rain parka.\nNeoprene boots: We try to discourage sandals because they can get tangled in footrests….and that’s bad if you’re upside down.\nSunscreen\nSunhat\nReusable water bottle — please DO NOT bring single use plastic water bottles. \nLunch supplies (refrigerator available)\nSnacks\nAlcohol or preferred adult beverages\nOne dinner at a local establishment\nGuide Gratuity (Suggested 5-10% of trip cost)\n\n\n \n\n\nRegistration\n \n\nNOTE: If a booking date shows on the calendar below\, there is space available but always feel free to call or email with specific questions. If the trip is full and you’d like to be waitlisted\, give us a call. \nReservations are held with a deposit of $150. The price below reflects the full amount\, including service fees; However\, your initial payment will be a $150 deposit (assuming you book 60+ days prior to the course). \nThe remaining amount due will be automatically charged to your credit card 60 days before the course. \nNOTE: You must choose the date of the trip you want before clicking on BOOK NOW. Be sure you are on the right month! \n\n\nView our Refund / Cancellation Policy\nView our COVID Risk Management Statement URL:https://www.mi-paddleadventure.com/trip/aca-coastal-kayaking-level-2-skills-training-day/ LOCATION:Uncommon Adventures\, Street Address: 6721 Grace Rd\, Benzonia\, MI\, 49616\, United States CATEGORIES:Day Trips,Great Lakes,Kayak Instruction ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.mi-paddleadventure.com/wp-content/uploads/jeremy-vore-instruction-7.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="Uncommon Adventures":MAILTO:email END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20240703 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20240706 DTSTAMP:20240329T124305 CREATED:20240203T201245Z LAST-MODIFIED:20240204T002141Z UID:4170-1719964800-1720223999@www.mi-paddleadventure.com SUMMARY:Mackinac Straits Lighthouse Trip DESCRIPTION:Driving North over the Mackinac bridge always offers up an amazing view as our eyes are drawn to the East to Mackinac\, Round and Bois Blanc islands and the flow of boat traffic. It is a busy waterway of sail-craft\, thousand-foot freighters and ferries trailed by huge roostertails spouting from their jetdrives. If you look to the West a few miles toward the open waters of Lake Michigan\, there is a largish\, forested island looming just two miles off the south shore of the Upper Peninsula that features a picturesque lighthouse. For decades I have traveled past St. Helena island on the way to other places often wondering what it would be like to paddle out there and explore. This secret spot that you may have never heard of lies just four hours travel from most all of Michigan. Want to check it out with us? \nNow we can paddle out there\, land\, explore the island and stay in that unique restored lighthouse thanks to the Great Lakes Lighthouse Keepers Association and the Nature Conservancy! You get to see what it would be like to be a Great Lakes Lighthouse Keeper for a couple of nights within view of the Mackinac Bridge while getting out there under your own power. Packing will be simple as food and lodging are provided at the lighthouse and we’ll all pitch in together on keeper duties while exploring this unique setting. You’ll need both the skills and a touring kayak capable of making the two-mile crossing (rentals available for $100)\, a willingness to pitch in and an adventurous spirit. \nFacilities: Despite not having running water and only solar electricity\, the lighthouse has nicely maintained outhouses\, on-demand hot water showers and even Wifi. Pillows and blankets are provided on nice beds\, but a sleeping bag or flat sheets are helpful. NOTE: there is no alcohol allowed here. \n\nItinerary\nDay 1\nMeet up at Gros Cap launch site for the 9 am gathering/packing session to head across to St Helena\, parking at the launch site. Although we’ll have some volunteer duties\, most time will be spent exploring on water and land. \nDay 2\nHelping out with shoreline and trail maintenance\, some lighthouse projects paired with time on our own to explore the island\, on land and/or by water\, and its features. \nDay 3\nAfter breakfast\, we’ll pack for the crossing back over to our waiting cars and have you back on the road to other adventures by noon. \n\n \nDates for 2024\nJuly 3-5 \n\n What’s Included: \n\nACA Qualified Instructors\nQuality on and off-water instruction\nSmall shared rooms in the light house…two rooms for couples with double beds and other shared rooms with singles.\nTwo breakfasts\, Lunches and two dinners\n\n What’s Not Included \n\nTransportation to the site\n Snacks and soft drinks\nGuide Gratuity (Suggested 5-10% of trip cost)\n See Packing List Below\n\nPacking List \n\n\n\nBedding – sleeping bag and bottom sheet or sheets (twin / full / queen) and pillowcase. NOTE: Pillows and blankets will be provided. You will be informed on bed size for sheets.\nToiletries\nComb/brush\nToothpaste/toothbrush\nLip balm/chapstick\nSoap\nShampoo\nMedications\nTowel\n2 long sleeved shirts\nSweatshirt\, fleece or sweater\n2-3 pairs of socks (over the ankle)\n1-2 pair long pants\n2 pairs of shorts\nWarm pajamas\nUndergarments\nRaincoat or Storm Cag – highly recommended\nBathing suit\nBrimmed Hat\nSunglasses with retainer\nSunscreen\nMosquito repellant\nShoes or hiking boots – (flip flops allowed for showering)\nWater footwear – booties for in kayaks\, sandals for swimming\nOld shirt and pants/shorts for restoration work or walk around the island\nHat and gloves\nWork gloves\nFlashlight (with extra batteries) or Headlamp\nFarmer John/Jane style wetsuit or Drysuit if you have one.\nSynthetic or wool long underwear: polypropylene\, polyester\, coolmax\, etc….anything but cotton\, both tops and bottoms\, can be worn under shorts too for a very comfortable if not very stylish ensemble.\nNon-cotton shorts/pants and shirt. For example\, Synthetic or wool long underwear: polypropylene\, polyester\, coolmax\, etc….anything but cotton\, both tops and bottoms. \nFleece jacket\nWater; Reusable water bottle — please DO NOT bring single use plastic water bottles.\n\n\nOPTIONAL ITEMS: \n\nCellphone and charger\nCamera with batteries\nBackpack/bag\nSoft drinks (pop) as the lighthouse serves coffee\, tea\, and sugar•free lemonade\n\n\n \n \n\n\nRegistration\n\nNOTE: If a booking date shows on the calendar below\, there is space available but always feel free to call or email with specific questions. If the trip is full and you’d like to be waitlisted\, give us a call. \nReservations are held with payment. The price below reflects the full amount\, including service fees. \nNOTE: You must choose the date of the trip you want before clicking on BOOK NOW. Be sure you are on the right month! \n\nView our Refund / Cancellation Policy\nView our COVID Risk Management Statement URL:https://www.mi-paddleadventure.com/trip/mackinac-straits-lighthouse-trip/ LOCATION:Gros Cap Launch CATEGORIES:Great Lakes,Lodge Based,Multi-day Trips ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.mi-paddleadventure.com/wp-content/uploads/IMG_0985.jpeg ORGANIZER;CN="Uncommon Adventures":MAILTO:email END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20240710 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20240722 DTSTAMP:20240329T124305 CREATED:20231015T155655Z LAST-MODIFIED:20240205T021232Z UID:3964-1720569600-1721606399@www.mi-paddleadventure.com SUMMARY:Isle Royale Explorer Long Play DESCRIPTION:We are going to strap our kayaks to the roof of a ferry\, motor over fifty miles out to the largest island in the largest lake in the world and go kayaking. This is not a small thing. \nSea Kayaking Isle Royale National Park on Lake Superior\nThis is a magical place wrapped up in ancient rock\, thimbleberries and the unforgiving waters of Lake Superior. This unique island park with its moose and wolves is a popular destination for backpackers\, but since it is an island we thought that it would make more sense to explore it by kayak! \nThere will be plenty of time for day hikes\, brisk swims\, good lake trout fishing\, kayaking and listening to the loons. Like you\, no two of these trips are the same. We plan these trips together with you based on the weather outlook\, personal tastes\, goals and skills. Our style is not to bag miles\, but to take a deep dive into Superior kayaking and the island’s nature AND culture. No one has guided more trips here than we have or developed deeper relationships with the park staff. \nNOTE: In many ways this trip is similar to our Explorer trip\, but this is MORE exploratory. Paddling skills for this will be on par with the Explorer option\, but this trip is longer\, with more flexible camping otpions and range further from our start point. Where we will get to and how long we spend in each place is based on weather… and whether we want to move or stay. Think flexible\, fun\, and more ambitious. This can be used as a Level 3 Trip Leader Training trip\, if so desired. Early season means fewer crowds\, longer daylight hours\, better fishing and\, probably\, slightly more hungry mosquitoes. \nTo ensure your safety and maintain the flexibility of small camps\, we limit this trip to only five participants. \nPaddling Skills\nIsle Royale Explorer trips are\nappropriate for intermediate paddlers -this means that you should be comfortable paddling 8-15 miles/day in 2-3 ft seas in up to 15 knots of wind and be familiar with group rescues. If you are not\, we do offer a number of weekend skills workshops to help you grow those skills. \nIf you have past formal training\, then ACA Levels 2 – 4 are appropriate. ACA levels are explained here. \n\nSample Itinerary for 12 Day trip\n(includes 2 travel days)\nDay 1: Arrival Day in Copper Harbor\nRendezvous in Copper Harbor at 5:00 PM at the Minnetonka Resort for a quick backcountry packing orientation. \nDay 2\n7 AM meet-up at the dock of the Isle Royale Queen for the 3.5 hour ride to Rock Harbor. Organize and pack for the short paddle to the first campsite. \nDays 3-10\nThe heart of the trip–you’ll find yourself paddling an average of 4 or 5 hours/day sandwiched with day hikes\, fishing\, shooting photos\, looking for Moose and listening to the music of our largest freshwater sea. We may choose a layover at a particularly nice campsite to give us more time to explore and linger a bit. You should be prepared for temps between 40- 80…bring a wool hat and a swimsuit. We’ll be covering 60 to 100 miles total with some days being relaxing and some challenging. You can count on learning lots of new paddle skills and having a truly spectacular experience. \nDay 11\nIn the afternoon\, we’ll be ferried back to Copper Harbor for a last group dinner and a good night’s sleep at the Minnetonka. \nDay 12 (July 21)\nTravel day: you move on to your next adventure\, whether a drive home or an extended exploration of the fabulous Keweenaw Peninsula. \n\nDates for 2024\nJuly 10 – July 21 \n\nNote: These trips fill fast\, but we will have a wait list. Please call 248-224-1044 or email to check availability or to be wait-listed.\n \nIsle Royale Kayaking Trip Cost Includes:\n\nOne night double occupancy lodging before and one after in Copper Harbor (Single occupancy rates available)\nRound trip ferry fees for both you and your kayak\nExpert instructor guides\nAll group gear (tents\, kitchen gear\, dry bags\, safety and camp gear)\nNational Park Service permits and daily user fee\nGourmet backcountry fare\n\nWhat’s Not Included:\n\nTravel to and from Copper Harbor\nKayak rental: If you are going to need a kayak\, you should add that as an add-on to your booking\, to be sure we have one for you.\nPersonal Items: Be sure to review the packing list. It is important that you review this list early on in case you have questions or need to order gear.\nGuide gratuities (5-10% suggested)\nTravel Insurance\n\nKayaking Equipment\nWe do not include kayaks on this trip because most paddlers at this level have their own. Your boat should be a touring kayak at least 16 feet long\, with front and rear bulkheads. High performance expedition-equipped rentals are available from us with prior reservation: They include PFD\, carbon hybrid paddle (Werner Shuna is our standard)\, sprayskirt and pump. We will transport your rental boat for you. We offer a variety of sizes and models from Current Designs\, Wilderness Systems and NDK…with drop skegs and day hatches. \nFAQs\nFrequently Asked Questions \n\n \n\n\nRegistration\nNOTE: If a booking date shows on the calendar below\, there is space available but always feel free to call or email with specific questions. If the trip is full and you’d like to be waitlisted\, give us a call. \nReservations are held with a $500 deposit. The price below reflects the full amount\, including service fees; However\, your initial payment will be a $500 deposit (assuming you book 60+ days prior to the course). \nThe remaining amount due will be automatically charged to your credit card 60 days before the trip. \nNOTE: You must choose the date of the trip you want before clicking on BOOK NOW. Be sure you are on the right month! You may need to choose the fare you want and then zero out the fare that the system initially chooses. Let us know if you have any difficulty. \n\nView our Refund / Cancellation Policy \nView our COVID Risk Management Statement URL:https://www.mi-paddleadventure.com/trip/isle-royale-explorer-long-play/ LOCATION:Isle Royale\, Isle Royale National Park\, Isle Royale\, MI\, United States CATEGORIES:Camping Based,Great Lakes,Isle Royale,Kayak Instruction ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.mi-paddleadventure.com/wp-content/uploads/se-ak_0029_Layer-49.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="Uncommon Adventures":MAILTO:email END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20240724 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20240802 DTSTAMP:20240329T124305 CREATED:20230905T183012Z LAST-MODIFIED:20231027T142237Z UID:3863-1721779200-1722556799@www.mi-paddleadventure.com SUMMARY:Isle Royale Explorer 2024 DESCRIPTION:We are going to strap our kayaks to the roof of a ferry\, motor over fifty miles out to the largest island in the largest lake in the world and go kayaking. This is not a small thing. \nSea Kayaking Isle Royale National Park on Lake Superior\nThis is a magical place wrapped up in ancient rock\, thimbleberries and the unforgiving waters of Lake Superior. This unique island park with its moose and wolves is a popular destination for backpackers\, but since it is an island we thought that it would make more sense to explore it by kayak! \nThere will be plenty of time for day hikes\, brisk swims\, good lake trout fishing\, kayaking and listening to the loons. Like you\, no two of these trips are the same. We plan these trips together with you based on the weather outlook\, personal tastes\, goals and skills. Our style is not to bag miles\, but to take a deep dive into Superior kayaking and the island’s nature AND culture. No one has guided more trips here than we have or developed deeper relationships with the park staff. \nTo ensure your safety and maintain the flexibility of small camps\, we limit this trip to only five participants. \nPaddling Skills\nIsle Royale Explorer trips are appropriate for intermediate paddlers -this means that you should be comfortable paddling 8-15 miles/day in 2-3 ft seas in up to 15 knots of wind and be familiar with group rescues. If you are not\, we do offer a number of weekend skills workshops to help you grow those skills. \nIf you have past formal training\, then ACA Levels 2 – 4 are appropriate. ACA levels are explained here. \n\nSample Itinerary for 9 Day trip\n(includes 2 travel days)\nDay 1\nRendezvous in Copper Harbor at 5:00 PM at the Minnetonka Resort for a quick backcountrypacking orientation. \nDay 2\n7 AM meet-up at the dock of the Isle Royale Queen for the 3.5 hour ride to Rock Harbor. Organize and pack for the short paddle to the first campsite. \nDays 3-7\nThe heart of the trip–you’ll find yourself paddling an average of 4 or 5 hours/day sandwiched with day hikes\, fishing\, shooting photos\, looking for Moose and listening to the music of our largest freshwater sea. We may choose a layover at a particularly nice campsite to give us more time to explore and linger a bit. You should be prepared for temps between 40- 80…bring a wool hat and a swimsuit. We’ll be covering 50 to 70 miles total with a fairly relaxed pace (9-day trip). You can count on learning lots of new paddle skills and having a truly spectacular experience. \nDay 8\nIn the afternoon\, we’ll be ferried back to Copper Harbor for a last group dinner and a good night’s sleep at the Minnetonka. \nDay 9\nTravel day: you move on to your next adventure\, whether a drive home or an extended exploration of the fabulous Keweenaw Peninsula. \n\nDates for 2024\n\nNote: These trips fill fast\, but we will have a wait list. Please call 248-224-1044 or email to check availability or to be wait-listed.\n\nJuly 24 – August 1\nAugust 2 – 10\nAugust 14 – 22\nAugust 23 – 31\n\n \nIsle Royale Kayaking Trip Cost Includes:\n\nOne night double occupancy lodging before and one after in Copper Harbor (Single occupancy rates available)\nRound trip ferry fees for both you and your kayak\nExpert instructor guides\nAll group gear (tents\, kitchen gear\, dry bags\, safety and camp gear)\nNational Park Service permits and daily user fee\nGourmet backcountry fare\n\nWhat’s Not Included:\n\nTravel to and from Copper Harbor\nKayak rental: If you are going to need a kayak\, you should add that as an add-on to your booking\, to be sure we have one for you.\nPersonal Items: Be sure to review the packing list. It is important that you review this list early on in case you have questions or need to order gear.\nGuide gratuities (5-10% suggested)\nTravel Insurance\n\nKayaking Equipment\nWe do not include kayaks on this trip because most paddlers at this level have their own. Your boat should be a touring kayak at least 16 feet long\, with front and rear bulkheads. High performance expedition-equipped rentals are available from us with prior reservation: They include PFD\, carbon hybrid paddle (Werner Shuna is our standard)\, sprayskirt and pump. We will transport your rental boat for you. We offer a variety of sizes and models from Current Designs\, Wilderness Systems and NDK…with drop skegs and day hatches. \nFAQs\nFrequently Asked Questions \n\n \n\n\nRegistration\nNOTE: If a booking date shows on the calendar below\, there is space available but always feel free to call or email with specific questions. If the trip is full and you’d like to be waitlisted\, give us a call. \nReservations are held with a $500 deposit. The price below reflects the full amount\, including service fees; However\, your initial payment will be a $500 deposit (assuming you book 60+ days prior to the course). \nThe remaining amount due will be automatically charged to your credit card 60 days before the trip. \nNOTE: You must choose the date of the trip you want before clicking on BOOK NOW. Be sure you are on the right month! You may need to choose the fare you want and then zero out the fare that the system initially chooses. Let us know if you have any difficulty. \n\nView our Refund / Cancellation Policy \nView our COVID Risk Management Statement URL:https://www.mi-paddleadventure.com/trip/isle-royale-explorer-2024/ LOCATION:Isle Royale\, Isle Royale National Park\, Isle Royale\, MI\, United States CATEGORIES:Camping Based,Great Lakes,Isle Royale,Multi-day Trips ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.mi-paddleadventure.com/wp-content/uploads/se-ak_0039_Layer-38.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="Uncommon Adventures":MAILTO:email END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20240802 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20240811 DTSTAMP:20240329T124305 CREATED:20230905T183046Z LAST-MODIFIED:20231027T142808Z UID:3873-1722556800-1723334399@www.mi-paddleadventure.com SUMMARY:Isle Royale Explorer 2024 DESCRIPTION: URL:https://www.mi-paddleadventure.com/trip/isle-royale-explorer-2024-2/ LOCATION:Isle Royale\, Isle Royale National Park\, Isle Royale\, MI\, United States CATEGORIES:Camping Based,Great Lakes,Multi-day Trips ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.mi-paddleadventure.com/wp-content/uploads/se-ak_0039_Layer-38.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="Uncommon Adventures":MAILTO:email END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20240804 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20240811 DTSTAMP:20240329T124305 CREATED:20220107T192224Z LAST-MODIFIED:20231127T192712Z UID:2999-1722729600-1723334399@www.mi-paddleadventure.com SUMMARY:Isle Royale Kayaking Sampler DESCRIPTION:We are going to strap our kayaks to the roof of a ferry\, motor over fifty miles out to the largest island in the largest lake in the world and go kayaking. This is not something to be taken lightly\, but our “sampler” program is designed for those who are interested in learning to camp out of their kayaks in relatively calm conditions. It is appropriate for adventurous beginners who have had group rescue practice and can paddle up to 10 miles/day in 1-2 ft seas and 10 knots of wind. We offer a number of weekend and day workshops that can help you grow those skills or point you to a coach in your area. \nSea Kayaking Isle Royale National Park in Lake Superior\nThis is a magical place wrapped up in ancient rock\, thimbleberries and the unforgiving waters of Lake Superior. This unique island park with its moose and wolves is a popular destination for backpackers\, but since it is an island we thought that it would make more sense to explore it by kayak! There will be plenty of time for day hikes\, brisk swims\, good lake trout fishing\, kayaking and listening to the loons. We plan this trip together with you based on weather outlook\, park conditions and your own goals and tastes. To ensure your safety and maintain the flexibility of small camps\, we limit this trip to only five participants. \n\nSample Itinerary for 7 Day trip\n(includes 2 travel days)\nDay 1\nRendezvous in Copper Harbor at 5:00 PM at the Minnetonka Resort for a quick backcountry packing orientation. \nDay 2\n7 AM rendezvous at Isle Royale Queen dock for the 3.5 hour ride to Rock Harbor. Organize and pack for the short paddle to the first campsite. Go over basic strokes\, braces and rescue drills. \nDays 3-5\nThe heart of the trip–you’ll find yourself paddling an average of 4 or 5 hours/day sandwiched with day hikes\, fishing\, shooting photos\, looking for Moose and listening to the music of our largest freshwater sea. For this trip we often use just two camps to use as two separate hubs. We find you spend more time seeing the island\, than making and breaking camp this way. You should be prepared for temps between 40- 80…bring a wool hat and a swimsuit. You can count on learning lots of new paddle skills and having a truly spectacular experience on this beginner friendly trip. \nDay 6\nIn the afternoon\, we’ll be ferried back to Copper Harbor for a fine meal and a good night’s sleep. \nDay 7\nTravel day for home or to continue your own adventure in the Keweenaw \n\nDates for 2024\n\nAugust 4 – 10 \nIsle Royale Kayaking Trip Cost Includes:\n\nOne night double occupancy lodging before and one after in Copper Harbor (Single occupancy rates available)\nRound trip ferry fees for both you and your kayak\nExpert instructor guides\nAll group gear (tents\, kitchen gear\, dry bags\, safety and camp gear)\nNational Park Service permits and daily user fee\nGourmet backcountry fare\n\nWhat’s Not Included:\n\nTravel to and from Copper Harbor\nKayak rental: If you are going to need a kayak\, you should add that as an add-on to your booking\, to be sure we have one for you.\nPersonal Items: Be sure to review the packing list. It is important that you review this list early on in case you have questions or need to order gear. \nGuide gratuities (5-10% suggested)\nTravel Insurance\n\nKayaking Equipment\nWe do not include kayaks on this trip because most paddlers at this level have their own. Your boat should be a touring kayak at least 16 feet long\, with front and rear bulkheads. High performance expedition-equipped rentals are available from us with prior reservation: They include PFD\, carbon hybrid paddle (Werner Shuna is our standard)\, sprayskirt and pump. We will transport your rental boat for you. We offer a variety of sizes and models from Current Designs\, Wilderness Systems and NDK …with drop skegs and day hatches. \nFAQs\nFrequently Asked Questions \n\n \n\n\nRegistration URL:https://www.mi-paddleadventure.com/trip/isle-royale-kayaking-sampler-3/ LOCATION:Isle Royale\, Isle Royale National Park\, Isle Royale\, MI\, United States CATEGORIES:Camping Based,Great Lakes,Multi-day Trips ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.mi-paddleadventure.com/wp-content/uploads/isle-royale-backcountry-kayaking.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="Uncommon Adventures":MAILTO:email END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20240814 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20240823 DTSTAMP:20240329T124305 CREATED:20230905T183109Z LAST-MODIFIED:20231027T142747Z UID:3878-1723593600-1724371199@www.mi-paddleadventure.com SUMMARY:Isle Royale Explorer 2024 DESCRIPTION: URL:https://www.mi-paddleadventure.com/trip/isle-royale-explorer-2024-3/ LOCATION:WI CATEGORIES:Camping Based,Great Lakes,Multi-day Trips ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.mi-paddleadventure.com/wp-content/uploads/se-ak_0039_Layer-38.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20240816 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20240822 DTSTAMP:20240329T124305 CREATED:20210125T173454Z LAST-MODIFIED:20240205T021918Z UID:2759-1723766400-1724284799@www.mi-paddleadventure.com SUMMARY:Keweenaw Rock Gardening (Optional L3 Trip Leader) DESCRIPTION:This is an Intermediate to Advanced trip (L3 – 4) designed for those who want to increase their skills in rough water environs and explore slots\, caves and surges through rocky alleys. \nKeweenaw is said to be one of the most beautiful places on earth\, with miles of gorgeous landscapes and adventure around every corner. Lighthouses\, ruins\, waterfalls\, and hiking trails! \nThis is Michigan’s other Thumb\, dividing open waters of Lake Superior from Keweenaw Bay. Its crystal clear waters bounce around this rocky coast offering a seldom paddled opportunity to explore rock gardens\, waterfalls\, sea stacks and some remote camping. Who knew? Imagine a group of decent paddlers\, geared up for swims\, rescue practice and some tough plastic boats designed to bounce before they break and you get the picture. We get to begin and end at a traditional Finn camp complete with 100 year old log sauna. \nGreat paddling\, Superior camping\, whitefish dinners\, blueberries\, local craft brews… this is so not your average guided trip! Don’t forget the great fresh food either\, because that’s the only way we roll. \n\nItinerary\nDay 1\nArrive at Lac LaBelle camp. Shakedown pack and fish fry. \nDays 2 – 5\nPaddle around the thumb\, camping en route (3 nights)\, then paddle to Bettegris and back to Lac La Belle camp. Dinner out or order pizza from Mt. Bohemia brick oven. \nDay 6\nHead out for drives home.\n \n \nDates for 2024\nAugust 16 – 21 \nWhat’s Included\nCost includes professional guide / instructor\, lodging at Lac LaBelle family camp before and after trip\, and group gear. \nKayaking Equipment\nWe do not include kayaks on this trip because most paddlers at this level have their own. A playful plastic design between 14-16 feet is recommended for this trip for maximum fun… think Delphin or the like. If you don’t have a suitable boat\, we have a limited number of Delphins or Dagger Stratos available for $150 rental. They include PFD\, Werner paddle\, helmet\, sprayskirt and pump. We will transport your rental boat for you. \nWhat’s Not Included\n\nTravel to and from the Keweenaw\nKayak rental (If you are going to need a kayak\, you should add that as an add-on to your booking\, to be sure we have one for you.)\nPersonal Items: Be sure to review the packing list: It is important that you review this list early on in case you have questions or need to order gear. \nGuide gratuity (5-10% suggested) \nTravel Insurance\n\n\n\n \n\n\n\n\n \nNOTE: If a booking date shows on the calendar below\, there is space available but always feel free to call or email with specific questions. If the trip is full and you’d like to be waitlisted\, give us a call. \nReservations are held with a deposit of $300. The price below reflects the full amount\, including service fees; However\, your initial payment will be a $300 deposit (assuming you book 60+ days prior to the course). \nThe remaining amount due will be automatically charged to your credit card 60 days before the course. \nNOTE: You must choose the date of the trip you want before clicking on BOOK NOW. Be sure you are on the right month! \n\nView our Refund / Cancellation PolicyView our COVID Risk Management Statement URL:https://www.mi-paddleadventure.com/trip/aca-l3-trip-leader-kayak-keweenaw/ LOCATION:Keweenaw\, Keweenaw Peninsula\, Schoolcraft Township\, MI\, 49913 CATEGORIES:Camping Based,Great Lakes,Kayak Instruction,Multi-day Trips ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.mi-paddleadventure.com/wp-content/uploads/keweenaw-640-480.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="Uncommon Adventures":MAILTO:email END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20240823 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20240901 DTSTAMP:20240329T124305 CREATED:20230905T183211Z LAST-MODIFIED:20231027T142658Z UID:3882-1724371200-1725148799@www.mi-paddleadventure.com SUMMARY:Isle Royale Explorer 2024 DESCRIPTION: URL:https://www.mi-paddleadventure.com/trip/isle-royale-explorer-2024-4/ LOCATION:Isle Royale\, Isle Royale National Park\, Isle Royale\, MI\, United States CATEGORIES:Camping Based,Great Lakes,Multi-day Trips ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.mi-paddleadventure.com/wp-content/uploads/se-ak_0039_Layer-38.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="Uncommon Adventures":MAILTO:email END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20241102 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20241110 DTSTAMP:20240329T124305 CREATED:20210930T142218Z LAST-MODIFIED:20231109T135621Z UID:2923-1730505600-1731196799@www.mi-paddleadventure.com SUMMARY:Ocean Skills Week (Tybee Island) with Optional Skills Assessments DESCRIPTION:Whether your aim to is to notch your L3 or L4 skills assessment\, get more experience in conditions with people who really have your back or just want to get out and enjoy some spring paddling in bumpy water\, this trip is for you! Based out of a comfortable house base with great family meals right near the beach\, we will be able to take maximum advantage of whatever the elements throw our way. \nBecause this program is focused on a maximum of 6 paddlers with 2-3 well-qualified instructors (including some locals like Dale Williams)\, you’ll get extremely personal coaching. Whether you’d like to really strengthen your bracing or your rescues in conditions or work on navigating tides and currents or all of the above\, we’ll build the week around your own development goals. With a small group and multiple instructors\, we can offer multiple options. If you’d prefer to fly into Savannah\, we may even be to set you up with a fun rental boat like a Delphin or a Stratos for the week. \nPrice includes lodging\, coaching and most meals…we’ll have a couple of meals out at local restaurants for fun and to support local businesses. \n \n\nItinerary\nDay 1\nArrival day: Check in after 2pm and get settled and oriented \nDays 2 – 5\nBracing\, surfing\, rescues in conditions\, tide and current practice\, high speed heron ID\, oyster avoidance and the finer points of low country cuisine can and will be part of the menu in any measure that best suits your needs. \nDay 6\nSaturday check-out\n \nDates for 2024\nNovember 2 – 9 \nWhat’s included?\nPrice includes lodging\, coaching and most meals… we’ll have a couple of meals out at local restaurants for fun and to support local businesses. \nWhat’s Not Included and What You Should Bring\n\nTransportation to the site\n15′ + sea kayak with floatation fore and aft\, paddle\, pump\, sprayskirt\, towbelt\, compass (orienteering style)\, basic repair supplies. Let us know if you need to borrow an appropriate kayak and gear\, we have lots of different loaners available.\nFarmer John/Jane style wetsuit: for May/June/September/October\, can be rented from us for a flat rate of $20. Drysuit if you have one.\nSynthetic or wool long underwear: polypropylene\, polyester\, coolmax\, etc….anything but cotton\, both tops and bottoms\, can be worn under shorts too for a very comfortable if not very stylish ensemble.\nFleece jacket\nPaddling jacket or rain parka.\nNeoprene boots: We try to discourage sandals because they can get tangled in footrests….and that’s bad if you’re upside down.\nSunscreen\nSunhat\nReusable water bottle — please DO NOT bring single use plastic water bottles. \nLunch supplies (refrigerator available)\nSnacks\nAlcohol or preferred adult beverages\nOne dinner at a local establishment\nGuide Gratuity (Suggested 5-10% of trip cost)\n\n\n\n \n\n\nRegistration\nNOTE: If a booking date shows on the calendar below\, there is space available but always feel free to call or email with specific questions. If the trip is full and you’d like to be waitlisted\, give us a call. \nReservations are held with a $300 deposit. The price below reflects the full amount\, including service fees; However\, your initial payment will be a $300 deposit (assuming you book 30+ days prior to the course). \nThe remaining amount due will be automatically charged to your credit card 30 days before the trip. \nNOTE: You must choose the date of the trip you want before clicking on BOOK NOW. Be sure you are on the right month! \n\nView our Refund / Cancellation Policy \nView our COVID Risk Management Statement \nShopping for someone else? Buy a Gift Card! URL:https://www.mi-paddleadventure.com/trip/aca-level-3-4-training-retreat-tybee-island/ LOCATION:Tybee Island\, Tybee Island\, GA\, United States CATEGORIES:Kayak Instruction,Lodge Based,Multi-day Trips,Southeastern US ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.mi-paddleadventure.com/wp-content/uploads/instr-3.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="Uncommon Adventures":MAILTO:email END:VEVENT END:VCALENDAR