Uncommon Adventures
About Us
We specialize in guided paddling adventures - both expedition style kayaking and lodge-based paddling retreats - in the Great Lakes, Greenland, Iceland, Alaska and more. We also offer kayak skills training, outdoor cooking programs and ACA Coastal Kayaking Instructor Training. Our focus is small groups for trips (3-6) and friendly student/instructor ratios for classes (4:1 max)
Since 1984 we have been known for professional, ACA certified instructors, outstanding cuisine, and top quality equipment that helps create an enjoyable learning environment for everyone at all experience levels. No matter what shape or size you may be, we will work hard to help you blaze a pathway to your own paddling adventure.
Contact Us
6721 Grace Road
Reviews
Trip: ACA Coastal Kayaking: L3 IDW OR ICE OR Update
Guide: Michael G.
By Devin F. on October 24, 2024
Trip: ACA Coastal Kayaking: L3 IDW OR ICE OR Update
Guide: Michael G.
Was a fun learning experience.
By Bryce P. on October 21, 2024
Trip: ACA Coastal Kayaking: L3 IDW OR ICE OR Update
Guide: Michael G.
Great organization, location and food. Most welcoming hosts!
By Marcos G. on October 21, 2024
Trip: Isle Royale Sampler
Guide: Michael G.
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)
Guide: Michael G.
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
Guide: Michael G.
Wonderful! Michael is an excellent guide and instructor!!!
By Tomoko M. on July 18, 2024
Trip: Mackinac Straits Lighthouse Trip
Guide: Michael G.
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
Trip: Mackinac Straits Lighthouse Trip
Guide: Michael G.
Uncommon Adventures packed lots of activities into a short trip based on and around picturesque St. Helena Island and Light Station. We successfully hunted for ladyslipper wildflowers along nature preserve trails, learned about the life of lighthouse keepers, kayaked around the island and over shipwrecks, and enjoyed a special view of mainland fireworks from the top of a lighthouse. Helena Island felt like our own private Mackinac—all the beauty and serenity with none of the crowds. No paddling guide knows this region better than Michael Gray. On land and water, Michael’s interpretation of history, wildlife, and flora was always fascinating. And providing a spread of brie and local smoked fish dip for our shoreline picnic lunch was top level! Our experience with Uncommon Adventures: safely executed fun trips to uniquely fabulous destinations.
By Jill L. on July 07, 2024
Trip: ACA Coastal Kayaking: L2 Skills Training Day
Guide: Lisa D.
Had a great time learning all sorts of skills from Lisa and Michael! They are excellent teachers, and I appreciate that they both have different approaches to teaching, because sometimes one of them explains something in a way that clicks in a way that it didn't the first time. Super beneficial. They do a great job of breaking things down, and explaining the why behind different things.
By Emma R. on July 05, 2024
Trip: ACA Coastal Kayaking: L2 Skills Training Day
Guide: Lisa D.
The instruction provided by Mike and Lisa will provide me with a base of knowledge to practice and improve my skills. They are both very knowledgeable and amiable instructors and I recommend them highly for anyone searching to get a solid and safe introduction to kayaking. I am a novice but they have much to offer to all levels.
By Ken M. on June 29, 2024
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