Les Cheneaux Islands Kayak Camping Trip

Skill Level: Beginner to advanced

This destination offers much flexibility in pacing, routes and poor weather alternatives making this a very forgiving trip for first time and expert paddlers alike. Our destination lies just south of Cedarville, in Michigan's upper peninsula. Sheltered finger-like islands and bays abound in this area steeped in Voyageur history. Although we plan a leisurely pace, we'll find ample territory and time to explore with our boats, shoot photos, fish and maybe do some rolling practice.

During our journey we'll acquaint you with self-rescue, basic paddling and bracing techniques to get you "immersed" in new skills. Kayaks are a quiet and peaceful way to explore this gorgeous place. By the end of the trip you will be a skilled novice kayaker, knowledgeable in the finer points of storytelling and backcountry feasting...which could be a problem if you start out as an expert.

Day 1) Meet in Cedarville at 1 pm at Loon's Point campground. We will pack, go over itineraries and set off for our island campsite.

Day 2-3) Since we're paddling out of a comfortable base camp, we will be able to explore at our leisure the myriad islands here....be prepared to see Ospreys, Eagles and maybe even an otter or two. It's a great destination, giving you the feeling of remote wilderness, but with very sheltered, easy access.

Day 4) After breaking camp and a few last photos, we'll paddle back to our launch site and prepare for a noon departure for points south.

Cost includes professional guide/instructor, all group gear (dry bags, tents, kitchen, safety gear) and the best backcountry meals you've ever wrapped your mouth around. You do need a kayak at least 14 feet long with fore and aft floatation to participate in this trip. Boats can be rented from Salamanders (616-946-9446) in Traverse City or Crystal Lake Adventure Sports (616-882-2527) in the Benzie area.

Registration: A $150 deposit is required to hold your space with either of the two fine shops listed above. Be sure to pick up an equipment list and tripper survey when you register, also available from these shops or from Uncommon Adventures. It is refundable until 30 days before the trip. The balance is also due 30 days prior to departure. Space is limited to 8, so plan ahead...

Dates for 2008: June 12-15, September 11-14
Cost: $550

Uncommon Adventures PO Box 254 Beulah, Michigan 49617 Toll Free: 1-866-882-5525 Local: (231) 882-5525 e-mail: info@uncommonadv.com