What is River Town Adventures?
River Town Adventures is a Lansing, Michigan kayak, canoe, and paddleboard outfitter offering downtown rentals, Grand River trips, Red Cedar River routes, group paddles, and seasonal glow paddle events.
Where does River Town Adventures meet guests?
The main downtown hub is at Rotary Park, 305 River Front Drive, Lansing, MI 48912. Some point-to-point river trips begin at other launch points and end at Rotary Park.
How do guests book a River Town Adventures trip?
Guests can book online at booking.rivertownadventures.com, choose a trip and time, sign the liability agreement, and pay online to reserve equipment.
Does River Town Adventures shuttle people?
River Town Adventures shuttles boats and gear only. Guests are responsible for their own transportation between put-ins and take-outs on point-to-point trips.
What are your age limits?
The minimum age to participate in kayaking is 5 years old. Children under 12 need to ride in a tandem kayak with someone older. Anyone under 18 needs a parent or guardian available to sign the waiver, and anyone under 16 must have an adult age 21 or older accompany them on the river.
Can I drink alcohol while on the water?
We strongly recommend that guests do not consume alcohol while operating any watercraft. While alcohol can legally be consumed on the river, it is against state law to be intoxicated while operating a boat. Glass containers are not allowed.
Do I need to wear a life vest or PFD?
Michigan law requires every watercraft to have a life vest or PFD on board for every passenger. We require all minors to wear theirs at all times and strongly recommend that every guest wear a life vest.
What is the weight limit?
Single kayaks have a 250-pound weight limit, tandem kayaks have a 500-pound combined weight limit, and canoes have a 600-pound weight limit.
Can my pet come along?
Furry friends are welcome if you are comfortable with their ability to swim. We do not provide animal life vests or PFDs, so please bring your own.
How many people can fit in one boat?
Single kayaks seat one person. Tandem kayaks and canoes work well for two adults, one adult and one child, or two adults and one child under 40 pounds. Our boats cannot accommodate more than two adults at one time.
Are reservations required?
Reservations are not always required, and we can generally accommodate walk-ups. We recommend reserving ahead of time, especially on weekends, so boats are available and ready for your group.
What do I need to make a reservation?
We need to know how many boats you want, which trip you would like, your preferred date and time, and your contact information.
What trip options do you offer?
We offer several kayak, canoe, and paddleboard options on the Grand River, Red Cedar River, and selected sections of the Looking Glass River. Visit the adventure listings to compare each route.
What times do the shuttles leave?
Shuttles leave at the top of each hour. The last shuttle depends on dusk and the length of the trip. Please call for the current final shuttle departure time.
What if I am late?
Our shuttles leave at the top of each hour. If you are running late, please contact us so we can move your reservation to the next available time when possible.
Do I need a deposit for a reservation?
No deposit is necessary for our reservations. Online bookings are completed through the booking page.
Can you accommodate large groups?
Yes. We are happy to accommodate large groups and corporate outings. Contact us so we can help plan your group trip.
Where should I park?
There is a city parking lot across from our location. Parking may require payment if an attendant is present. Other lots and metered parking in the downtown and stadium districts are also within walking distance.
What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen and water, especially for longer trips. Loose, lightweight clothing is comfortable on the river. We recommend leaving valuables at home or in your vehicle.
Can I bring a cooler?
Small coolers are allowed on our boats. Please do not bring Styrofoam coolers.
Can I bring my phone?
You may bring your phone, but we recommend a waterproof case or bag. River Town Adventures is not responsible for damage to phones or other belongings.
Can I bring fishing gear?
Yes, you are welcome to bring fishing gear as long as it fits safely in your boat.
What should I wear on the river?
Wear loose-fitting, lightweight clothing that you do not mind getting a little wet. Bathing suits are optional.
What if I need to stop during my trip?
Please use public property only. Do not stop at private river access points unless there is an emergency.
How much notice is needed to cancel?
We ask for at least 24 hours notice to cancel, although we understand that unexpected situations happen. Call us if you need to cancel before your reservation.
What if I own my own canoe or kayak?
You are welcome to bring your own kayak or canoe. The Rotary Park landing is public and free to use. If you need equipment transportation for a point-to-point trip, contact us about available shuttle services.
What happens in bad weather?
We stay open in light rain. For heavy rain, high winds, thunder, or lightning, we do not put guests on the water for safety. If weather affects your reservation, we will call you. We may close operations due to severe weather.
Are snacks or drinks available for purchase?
On exceptionally hot days we may have water available for purchase, but plan to buy snacks and drinks before arriving.
What should we do in an emergency?
Focus on your own safety first. If you flip, make sure you are safe before retrieving the boat. During a storm, try to reach a bridge or get off the river, and one of our shuttle drivers will come to your aid.
What wildlife might I see?
Guests may see deer, turtles, fish, ducks, geese, blue herons, frogs, and nesting bald eagles. Please do not disturb wildlife or remove anything from its habitat.
Do you offer tubing?
We do not offer tubing because the area rivers contain dams and log jams that are not well suited for tubing.
Is the water clean and safe?
Water quality is a priority. The Grand River and Red Cedar River have improved significantly, although heavy rainfall can temporarily affect water quality through runoff. Ingham County Health Department provides weekly water-quality testing information.
Do you offer instructional classes?
Yes. We offer instructional classes from beginner to advanced levels, can refer guests to partners, and can teach basic paddling skills when you arrive.
