Michael Gray
About me
Guides & Staff
Our guides and workshop leaders possess excellent training and first aid skills to help ensure a safe outdoor experience, but that’s only part of the story. They’re chosen because of their outstanding skills and their ability to convey that knowledge.
Michael Gray
Michael Gray founded Uncommon Adventures in 1984 a couple of years after getting a degree in Environmental Interpretation at MSU. With nearly 30 years in the business, Michael is one of the most experienced instructors and guides in the country. He’s led trips all over the world including Alaska, New Zealand, Greenland, Iceland and Central America. He is an ACA Level 3 Coastal Kayak Instructor Trainer and a Level 4 instructor. He also holds certifications in Canoe and SUP instruction.
Of particular note is Michael’s reputation as a phenomenal backcountry cook. Our guests often say they don’t eat as well at home as they do on Uncommon Adventures trips. Michael’s cooking presentations/demonstrations are among the most popular sessions at the country’s leading kayak symposiums, and his articles appear in major kayak publications, websites, and his cookbook!
Having taught outdoor skills and environmental workshops all of his adult life, Michael interprets wild places with warmth and respect. Email him at uamichaelgray@gmail.com.
“Who says we have to let the kids have all the fun on this planet? I’d like to thank those who have shared stories, great meals and wild places with me over the last three decades. I’ve enjoyed exploring the outdoors in many ways and in many place, but I still favor the solitude and clear crisp waters of the Northern Great Lakes for a pure wilderness experience. Whether with a paddle or a fly rod in hand, this life, full of rich experience has been a gift. Come out to play with us this year… we’ve got a whole new menu of great experiences for you to choose from.”
—Michael
Certifications
No certifications added yet.
Reviews
Trip: Tybee Island Ocean Skills (Manhattan Kayak)
With Michael G., Lisa D., Tim Gallaway on November 10, 2024
Company: Uncommon Adventures
I recently attended the Ocean Kayaking Skills course with Uncommon Adventures in Tybee Island, Georgia, and it was an incredible experience. Michael and Lisa are exceptional instructors—Michael’s infectious enthusiasm and Lisa’s thoughtful, no-judgment approach made learning both enjoyable and approachable. As a beginner, I felt comfortable sharing what I didn’t know, and they tailored a checklist of skills for me to work on. I felt their ability to meet everyone where they were and respond thoughtfully to their individual goals was impressive. They also fostered a fantastic group dynamic. Sharing meals, laughing, and supporting one another made the experience even more meaningful. Michael’s cooking (he’s a chef!) was another highlight, as my scale can attest to. I also learned a lot about caring for kayaks and equipment, as well as the fascinating history of the kayak (or qajaq), which Tim (another remarkable instructor) shared with the group. Michael and Lisa are well-respected in both the kayaking community and the regions where they run trips. This reputation enables them to craft unique, thoughtful experiences that go far beyond cookie-cutter itineraries. Their attention to detail was amazing—when I forgot my wetsuit, they even had a spare in my size ready to lend. This trip was unforgettable, and I look forward to more adventures with Uncommon Adventures. I can’t recommend them highly enough!
By Kimberly S. on December 30, 2024
Trip: Ocean Skills Week (Tybee Island) w/ Optional Assessment
With Michael G., Lisa D., Kathryn Lapolla on November 03, 2024
Company: Uncommon Adventures
By Mandy H. on November 10, 2024
Trip: Ocean Skills Week (Tybee Island) w/ Optional Assessment
With Michael G., Lisa D., Kathryn Lapolla on November 03, 2024
Company: Uncommon Adventures
Our trip exceeded expectations - quality accommodations; delicious food; camaraderie; superb mentoring to develop paddling skills.
By Tim K. on November 10, 2024
Trip: Ocean Skills Week (Tybee Island) w/ Optional Assessment
With Michael G., Lisa D., Kathryn Lapolla on November 03, 2024
Company: Uncommon Adventures
An amazing week paddling off of Tybee Island. Great guides, great food, great connections with other paddlers. I did not want to go home!
By Lori S. on November 10, 2024
Trip: ACA Coastal Kayaking: L3 IDW OR ICE OR Update
With Michael G. on October 17, 2024
Company: Uncommon Adventures
By Devin F. on October 24, 2024
Trip: ACA Coastal Kayaking: L3 IDW OR ICE OR Update
With Michael G. on October 17, 2024
Company: Uncommon Adventures
Was a fun learning experience.
By Bryce P. on October 21, 2024
Trip: ACA Coastal Kayaking: L3 IDW OR ICE OR Update
With Michael G. on October 17, 2024
Company: Uncommon Adventures
Great organization, location and food. Most welcoming hosts!
By Marcos G. on October 21, 2024
Trip: Isle Royale Sampler
With Michael G. on August 05, 2024
Company: Uncommon Adventures
This was a great trip . Great trip managment as far as food , safety , location, and kayak stroke tips. I learned a lot but was not overwhelmed with information.
By David B. on August 13, 2024
Trip: Isle Royale Explorer Long Play (Training Trip)
With Michael G. on July 10, 2024
Company: Uncommon Adventures
I am really glad I did this trip. It was enjoyable, educational, challenging and encouraging of kayaking and camping skill growth. Isle Royale is a beautiful place to go, with a variety of environments on land and water to experience. Michael Gray did a great job of organizing and leading this trip. Lisa Deziel was helpful in a thousand ways. I enjoyed all my companions on this trip. Michael Gray's famously good cooking was on display every day. I encourage paddlers who want Something More from a kayaking expedition to consider signing up next time this event is offered. All the other Uncommon Adventures outings with Isle Royale as a destination will also be rewarding.
By Phillip S. on July 23, 2024
Trip: Mackinac Straits Lighthouse Trip
With Michael G. on July 03, 2024
Company: Uncommon Adventures
Wonderful! Michael is an excellent guide and instructor!!!
By Tomoko M. on July 18, 2024
Trip: Mackinac Straits Lighthouse Trip
With Michael G. on July 03, 2024
Company: Uncommon Adventures
An amazing trip steeped in history! GLLKA restored this magnificent Lighthouse on St. Helena Island and I was able to spend a few days on the Island and in the Lighthouse. A truly special trip. Michael and Lisa's itinerary was perfect. Lake Michigan offered us various paddling conditions and we even got to see a Ship Wreck from our kayaks! The wildlife is pretty cool too.
By Kim S. on July 07, 2024