Bear River Valley Recreation Area

Come experience one of Petoskey's best kept secrets - one of the Midwest's best whitewater recreation areas right in the heart of Petoskey.  In 2010 the City of Petoskey undertook over $2 million dollars of improvements in the Bear River Valley Recreation Area including a .25 mile whitewater boating area in the Bear River.  This improved whitewater course flows through an area that was once home to multiple dams and various industries - the Bear River has more fall than any river in the lower peninsula of Michigan.  Today, you'll find a river that has been beautifully restored, with walking paths and look outs that will keep even experienced whitewater kayaks entertained and coming back for more.  The Northern Michigan Paddling Club was created after a whitewater park was created within the Bear River Valley Recreation Area.  The Northern Michigan Paddling Club works to promote both whitewater and flat-water paddling in the area, and educating potential or new paddlers on gear and safety.  In 2011, the club organized whitewater safety training, highlighting how to use throw bags and getting pinned boats out. The goal is to develop a comprehensive program for safer whitewater and flat-water paddling.