RIVER FOR ALL

THINGS TO DO

You can enjoy the Grand River throughout the year. From kayaking and fishing to running and exercising, there’s something for everyone.

Boating

Launching

The public boat launches at Riverside Park are a scenic place to begin your boating journey on the river.

Boating

For information on Michigan boating laws, registrations and fees, rules on the water and more, visit the Michigan Recreational Boating Information System.

Fishing

You’ll find steelhead, salmon, smallmouth bass, lake trout and more when fishing in the Grand River. For a complete guide to fishing, visit Experience Grand Rapids’ website below.

Kayaking

The Grand Rapids Parks and Recreation Department has single and tandem kayaks that are used throughout the warmer months for recreation programs and family events.

You can also use your own, borrow from a friend or rent kayaks from a local provider. Read our beginner’s guide to kayaking on the Grand River below.

Outdoor Exercise Equipment

You’ll find 6 outdoor exercise stations along the Grand River – thanks to a partnership between the City of Grand Rapids and Downtown Grand Rapids, Inc. The stations are along a quarter-mile stretch between Sixth Street and Canal parks and include:

  • Elliptical machines
  • Airwalkers
  • Hand Cycler
  • Leg Press
  • Pull Up Bars
  • Chest Press

Walking, Running and Biking

The Grand Rapids Riverwalk on the west side of the Grand River and Grand River Edges Trail on the east side are both great ways to reconnect with the river on foot or by bike.

They pass under bridges, through parks and near local businesses and restaurants to offer a variety of experiences for everyone.