Resources for a Great Trail Visit

Resources listed here are provided as a courtesy to Scouts, and should neither be considered to be an exhaustive list of options in the area nor an endorsement from the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Foundation.

  • Experience Grand Rapids. Explore Grand Rapids, MI top attractions and things to do! Find hotels, restaurants and exciting events.

    6th Street Bridge Park. The Sixth St. Park offers access to the Historic Sixth St. Bridge and Riverwalk. The bridge was constructed in 1886. It was slated for demolition in 1975 but citizens convinced authorities to save it. Today, it is the longest pin-connected highway truss in the State of Michigan.

    Fish Ladder Park. This popular site allows visitors to watch fish jump up the ladder in a seasonal migration in the spring and late summer.

    Canal Street Park. A city park along the Grand River featuring picnic tables, exercise equipment, and a playground.

    Ah-Nab-Awen Park. Ah-Nab-Awen Park is a long park along the Grand River with public art, city views, a running trail and sculptures.

  • Website: https://www.aaacanoerental.com/

    Phone: (616) 866-9264

  • Website: https://www.billandpauls.com/

    Phone: (616) 458-1684

    Email: customerservice@billandpauls.com

    Note: Ask for JJ for arranging group outings. Renters should plan on arranging their own transportation. 10% discount for Scouts using kayaks for a Scouting activity.

  • Website: https://www.grandkayakadventures.com/

    Phone: (231) 402-0820

    Email: grandkayakadventures@gmail.com

    Note: Can transport kayaks, but not people, to and from parks.

  • NOAA: Grand River at Grand Rapids

    U.S. Geological Survey: Grand River at Grand Rapids

    The Weather Channel: Grand Rapids

  • Continue the adventure on the Lower Grand River Water Trail. The Grand River, Owashtanong, as it is known to the original inhabitants of our land, is the longest river in Michigan, spanning 252 miles. The Grand River water trail is split into three sections, the Upper, Middle, and Lower Grand River. Each section has its own committee or alliance that is responsible for the development and oversight of these areas. Each one of the three sections is working together to develop a sustainable, enjoyable, and safe water trail for residents and tourists alike. With the help from citizens, access and launch points will be established, potential waterway hazards will be reported, and heritage sites will be identified.

    Website: https://www.lgrow.org/