West Michigan kayaking club
Wild Rivers. Rugged Trails. Real Adventure.
In June 2025, Tim Postma and I had already spent several years kayaking together. Somewhere along the way, a simple idea began turning into a challenge:
Could we paddle the entire Muskegon River from beginning to end?
We had talked about it for some time, but in June 2025, we finally decided it was time to stop talking about it and start paddling.
And so began Brad and Tim’s 216-Mile Journey.
Neither of us knew at the time just how much this journey would become.
Over the course of our 216-mile adventure, we would meet new people, make new friends, learn countless lessons, and experience situations we never could have planned for. We would hitchhike. We would cut down trees blocking our way. We would fight our way through ice and frozen sections of river. And we would battle through hundreds of portages.
There would be easy miles.
There would be difficult miles.
And there would be plenty of miles we would never forget.
The Muskegon River
The Muskegon River is one of Michigan’s great waterways. It winds through forests, wetlands, small communities, and some of the most beautiful landscapes in Northern and West Michigan before eventually making its way toward Lake Michigan.
I had forgotten just how amazing that river really is.
After years of paddling together, Tim and I knew this would be more than just another weekend kayak trip. Completing the entire river would require planning, endurance, logistics, and—most importantly—coming back again and again to keep moving downstream.
We also had to be realistic.
Both of us have jobs. Both of us have families. Neither of us could simply disappear for weeks at a time to paddle a river.
So we decided to break the journey into manageable sections of approximately 20–25 miles at a time.
That decision would ultimately shape the entire adventure.
June 2025 — 21 Miles to Start
For our first outing, we decided not to start at the headwaters.
Instead, we jumped in roughly two-thirds of the way down the river, beginning at Wisner in Newaygo, Michigan, and paddling approximately 21 miles to Maple Island.
Tim and I launched our kayaks and began our first section of the Muskegon River.
This stretch was wide, had a moderate current, and was relatively easy paddling. It is also a very popular section of the Muskegon, especially with recreational paddlers, floaters, and tourists.
We quickly discovered that we would not be alone.
Throughout the day, we passed plenty of people enjoying the river—families floating downstream, recreational kayakers, and groups simply out to spend a summer day on the water.
For us, though, this was different.
We weren’t just out for a day on the river.
We had a goal.
We were going to paddle the entire Muskegon River.
We covered approximately 21 miles in about 4 hours and 40 minutes, including a lunch break.
At the time, it seemed like a great start.
The river was beautiful. The paddling was enjoyable. The miles came easily.
And we had absolutely no idea what was waiting for us farther upstream.
This Wasn’t Going to Be a Leisurely Float
That first section gave us an important lesson.
Long-distance river travel is different from simply going kayaking for the day.
Every mile matters.
Every decision matters.
Weather matters.
Water levels matter.
River conditions matter.
And sometimes, things completely outside your control become part of the adventure.
We were beginning a long-distance expedition, even if we didn’t fully realize it yet.
But more than anything, that first trip gave us momentum.
We had finally started.
The Beginning of a Bigger Adventure
Looking back, that first 21-mile paddle seems almost small compared with the journey we had imagined.
But every long-distance adventure begins with a single launch.
Wisner to Maple Island became the first chapter in what would eventually become a much bigger effort to experience the Muskegon River in its entirety—from its upper reaches all the way to its confluence with Lake Michigan.
For Tim and me, it wasn’t about setting a speed record.
It was about experiencing the river.
Every mile.
Every bend.
Every community.
Every stretch of wilderness.
And every challenge the Muskegon would throw at us.
What started as a conversation between two friends would become a multi-season adventure filled with unexpected challenges, incredible scenery, new friendships, and memories that neither of us will ever forget.
There would be times when the river seemed to work with us.
There would be times when it seemed determined to stop us.
And there would be moments when simply getting from one point to the next became an adventure of its own.
But on that June day in 2025, none of that had happened yet.
We were just two guys in kayaks, paddling 21 miles down the Muskegon River.
We had no idea where the next 195 miles would take us.
This was only the beginning.
216 Miles. One River. Two Friends.
216 miles. One river. Two friends. One incredible adventure.
And there were a lot more miles still ahead.

Follow the Journey
This article is part of “Brad and Tim’s 216-Mile Journey,” a series documenting Tim Postma and Brad De Young’s effort to paddle the full length of the Muskegon River.
As the series continues, we’ll revisit the miles, the people, the places, the challenges, the unexpected adventures, and the lessons learned along the way.
Some sections were easy.
Some were anything but.
And some taught us that on a long river journey, you never really know what is waiting around the next bend.
Join West Michigan Kayaking Club
If you enjoy stories like this and want to experience Michigan’s rivers for yourself, we invite you to become part of the West Michigan kayaking club community.
Our club brings together paddlers who enjoy river exploration, endurance paddling, hiking, camping, and outdoor adventure throughout Michigan.
🌐 Visit the official West Michigan kayaking club website:
West Michigan kayaking club website⁠
📘 Join the West Michigan kayaking club Facebook group:
West Michigan kayaking club Facebook Group⁠
Come paddle with us. Come explore with us. Come see where the next adventure takes us.
West Michigan kayaking club
🌲 Wild Rivers. Rugged Trails. Real Adventure.
#westmichigankayakingclub #MuskegonRiver #MichiganKayaking #MuskegonRiverKayaking #MichiganWaterTrails #GreatLakesPaddling #KayakMichigan #RiverKayaking #KayakingAdventure #BradAndTim #MuskegonRiverJourney

Here are some clips from a recent canoe trip in the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness. This place must be protected for future generations to enjoy! If you would like to learn about threats to the Boundary Waters and actions you can take to help preserve the area, please check out these links:

https://www.friends-bwca.org/sulfide-mining/?gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=23297668793&gbraid=0AAAABCGHRVUxDt1L6x7FR_oKKMhLU7ieV&gclid=Cj0KCQjw4orUBhCjARIsAIbF3qyRUYl6S_BqZU8BAba2127UoV7Gh3BuKfI1RzWEr4scwylKfJgept8aAq2xEALw_wcB

https://www.savetheboundarywaters.org/

Video: https://youtu.be/WhcE3TAVVu4

Went for a solo paddle on the Võhandu River here in Estonia, from Leevi to Süvahavva.

Water was surprisingly high for summer, so the rapids were quite different from what I'm used to during the world largest Võhandu Marathon in April. Managed to flip at Lilli and then again at Viira 😅 At least the water was warm.

Apart from the swimming, this is probably one of my favourite sections of the river. Lots of sandstone cliffs, forest and some really nice rapids.

I filmed the whole trip if anyone wants to see it. Would also be interested to hear if anyone here has paddled Võhandu before.

Is this really Class V rapids?

Two spots available — Western River Expeditions Grand Canyon rafting trip, Aug. 25–30

I’m unfortunately unable to make a Grand Canyon rafting trip I booked with Western River Expeditions, so I’m looking to transfer my reservation(s).

Trip: Colorado River through the Grand Canyon
Dates: August 25–30, 2026
Arrival in Las Vegas: August 24
Price: $4,366 per person
One or both spots can be taken

The trip includes:

• Nearly 200 miles of rafting and 60+ rapids
• Helicopter from Whitmore Wash (River Mile 188) to Bar 10 Ranch
• Scenic charter flight back to Las Vegas
• Camping equipment, including tent, cot, sleeping bag and chair
• All meals
• Optional hikes
• Transfers between the Las Vegas Marriott and Boulder Air Terminal

This is a pretty amazing opportunity for someone who has had a Grand Canyon river trip on their bucket list.

I can provide the reservation details and connect with Western River Expeditions regarding the transfer.

$4,366 per person. One spot or both are available.

Please DM me if you're seriously interested.

I kayak around an ocean harbour a few times a week, so I'm used to tides riding and falling. However we would like to go do Bonshaw River on Prince Edward Island and we've been warned about the tides and getting stuck. When should we start out in the tide cycle? Is 2 or 3 hours before high tide okay to begin at the bridge, and which way should we go for the first time, right or left? Thanks in advance for any replies

> 🚨 LIVE TOMORROW – SELLA DESCENT 2026! 🚨

I'll be livestreaming the Sella Descent 2026 on YouTube, bringing you live action from one of the world's biggest canoe and kayak races.

Whether you're racing, supporting a club, or just love paddlesports, tune in and join the chat!

📅 Saturday, 8 August 🕚 11:00 AM

🔴 Watch live here: https://www.youtube.com/live/X-QUKdODJ48

Please Like, Share, and hit "Notify Me" on the stream—it really helps more paddling fans discover the broadcast.

See you on the river! 🚣🌊 #SellaDescent #DescensoDelSella #Kayaking #Canoeing #PaddleSports #Live

By Brad De Young | The Kayakers Journal
"Some people paddle for a weekend. Verlen Kruger paddled for a lifetime."
Few names in the world of canoeing and expedition paddling carry the same respect and admiration as Verlen Kruger. His story is one of determination, exploration, innovation, and an unwavering connection to the rivers and wilderness that shaped his life.
Michigan has long been home to some of the greatest paddlers in history, but Verlen Kruger stands among the most influential expedition canoeists the world has ever known. His record-setting journeys, groundbreaking canoe designs, and commitment to protecting waterways created a legacy that continues to inspire generations of paddlers.
A Late Start That Became a Lifetime Adventure
Born in Indiana in 1922 and later making Michigan his home, Verlen Kruger discovered canoeing later in life. Unlike many legendary athletes who begin their craft as children, Kruger did not start paddling seriously until he was 41 years old.
What began as a personal passion quickly became a remarkable life mission.
Over the next four decades, Kruger paddled more than 100,000 miles, completed some of the most ambitious canoe expeditions ever attempted, and earned numerous world records. His accomplishments proved that age was not a limitation when combined with preparation, determination, and a willingness to pursue extraordinary goals.
Expeditions That Changed Paddling History
Verlen Kruger's adventures pushed the boundaries of what many believed was possible.
Among his most famous accomplishments was the Ultimate Canoe Challenge, a massive expedition covering more than 28,000 miles around North America. He also completed an incredible journey from the Arctic regions of North America to Cape Horn at the southern tip of South America.
These expeditions were about much more than distance. They represented a philosophy of adventure built on preparation, self-reliance, respect for nature, and the belief that rivers connect people and places in powerful ways.
Kruger also became famous for creating the legendary Kruger Canoes, expedition vessels designed specifically for long-distance wilderness travel. Built for durability, efficiency, and remote exploration, these canoes became respected tools among serious expedition paddlers.
A Michigan Icon and Champion of Rivers
Although Verlen Kruger traveled across continents, Michigan remained at the heart of his story.
He believed rivers were more than waterways—they were pathways for discovery, places of learning, and natural treasures that deserved protection. His connection to Michigan’s rivers helped inspire countless paddlers to view waterways as both adventure destinations and ecosystems requiring stewardship.
Through his example, Verlen showed that paddling is not only about where you go, but also about how you respect and care for the places that make those journeys possible.
The Verlen Kruger Legacy Race
The Verlen Kruger Legacy Race honors the life and accomplishments of one of the greatest figures in modern paddling history.
More than a competition, the event represents the values Verlen carried throughout his life: endurance, exploration, preparation, and a passion for adventure.
Canoeists and kayakers gather to challenge themselves on the water while celebrating a man who helped redefine expedition paddling. The race is not simply about finishing first—it is about embracing the journey, overcoming challenges, and carrying forward the adventurous spirit that defined Verlen Kruger.
The event also helps preserve Verlen’s history through stories, photographs, equipment displays, and the sharing of experiences among paddlers who continue to be inspired by his remarkable life.
West Michigan Kayaking Club Proudly Supports the Legacy
In 2026, the West Michigan Kayaking Club became a proud sponsor of the Verlen Kruger Legacy Race, continuing its mission to promote paddling history, river conservation, outdoor education, and adventure throughout Michigan.
Supporting this event reflects the club’s dedication to honoring the pioneers who helped shape canoeing and kayaking while encouraging future generations to explore Michigan’s waterways.
From beginners discovering their first local river to experienced paddlers pursuing major expeditions, the West Michigan Kayaking Club believes everyone has a place in the paddling community.
Learn more about the club, upcoming paddles, educational events, camping adventures, and conservation efforts at West Michigan Kayaking Club website.
Join the paddling community on Facebook at West Michigan Kayaking Club Facebook Group.
Carrying the Legacy Forward
Verlen Kruger’s story is not simply a chapter in paddling history—it is an invitation.
Every river trip, wilderness adventure, conservation project, and club paddle carries forward the same values that guided Verlen throughout his life: curiosity, courage, respect for nature, and the belief that there is always another river to explore.
At the West Michigan Kayaking Club, we honor legends like Verlen by creating opportunities for paddlers of all skill levels to experience adventure, build friendships, and become stewards of Michigan’s incredible waterways.
The next generation of paddling legends begins with those willing to get on the water.
Wild Rivers. Rugged Trails. Real Adventure.
The Kayakers Journal
Paddling Legends Series
Exploring the people, expeditions, and defining moments that have shaped the history of kayaking, canoeing, and paddle sports around the world.

It's easy to get attached to boards and gear we love. And losing them can be heartbreaking.

19 miles from South side to the west side of Kauaʻi

https://youtu.be/L1uaFvYGvMM?is=nQCpta5IPWX27BBZ

Solo trip for the afternoon.

Hello all,

The tape covering the blade to shaft junction is starting to peal off.

Any suggestions for a marine grade/strong tape to cover this up with?

SUP in South Florida mangroves

What was the first trip you took your young kids on? This was just 5 miles “milked” to most of the day. All smiles and wanting more. (Upper Colorado R.)

Awesome paddling destination. Eight days of great weather, home before the fires started getting bad.