Things to Do in Indian River
Boating & Paddling
At the heart of Northern Michigan's famed Inland Waterway between Burt Lake and Mullett Lake, Indian River offers endless opportunities to get out on the water. Cruise between lakes, paddle the Sturgeon River, and experience the area from a unique perspective. With abundant public access, scenic waterways, and adventures for every skill level, there's no better place to enjoy a day on the water.
The Inland Waterway
The Inland Waterway is Michigan’s longest chain of rivers and lakes. Nearly 40 miles long, the Inland Waterway runs through Pickerel Lake and Crooked Lake, the Crooked River, Burt Lake, the Indian River, Mullett Lake, the Cheboygan River, and finally into Lake Huron.
Many of our Indian River Resort Region Chamber of Commerce members offer a variety of on-the-water experiences, from kayak, canoe, and stand-up paddleboard rentals to river adventures, pontoon boats, speed boats, fishing boats, and personal watercraft rentals.
Paddle the Sturgeon River with Big Bear Adventures
For generations, Big Bear Adventures has been one of Northern Michigan's favorite outdoor experiences. Offering canoe, kayak, raft, and tube trips along the iconic Sturgeon River, along with guided side-by-side trips through Indian River's ORV trails, Big Bear provides a fun and relaxing way to experience the area's natural beauty.
An adventure with Big Bear is a classic Indian River tradition and a unforgettable way to spend a summer day on the water.
Canoe on the Inland Lakes
Load up your canoe and enjoy a leisurely day on one of our inland lakes. Donʼt be afraid to explore beyond Burt and Mullett Lake. Pull out a map and you will be delighted to find many smaller inland lakes in our area, ready for you to explore and make memories on.
