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: 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
Trip: Fundamentals of Coastal Kayaking II
Guide: Michael G.
The training was great. I learned alot about various strokes, kayaking, etc. I am anxious to try again - I need to practice more. The lake - the river was fun.
By Marie M. on June 17, 2024
Trip: Sleeping Bear Sampler Remix: Learn to Kayak Boot Camp
Guide: Michael G.
Amazing and enjoyable experience, great location, excellent food. Lisa and Michael are great teachers and very patient with beginners. A good first step especially as related to learning about safe rescues in a group and if our solo. This is two and a half days with many hours out on the water, learning through direct experience. A repeatable weekend class as it is tailored to participants' individual skill levels. Lake Michigan is very close to the inland lake we paddled on.
By Amy S. on June 13, 2024
Trip: ACA Coastal Kayaking: L3 Skills Training and Optional Assessment
Guide: Michael G.
By Eddie Q. on June 12, 2024
Trip: Sleeping Bear Sampler Remix: Learn to Kayak Boot Camp
Guide: Michael G.
I took the boot camp and thoroughly enjoyed my experience with Uncommon Adventures and look forward to the next. Mike and Lisa are the most gracious, helpful, and generous of hosts. They have something for each level of kayaker. I highly recommend Uncommon Adventures.
By Ken M. on June 05, 2024
Trip: Camp Birkett ACA: PSF and CPL
Guide: Michael G.
Exceptional training. I didn’t know what I didn’t know about paddling and rescue. The information I learned will prove to be exceptionally helpful professionally and personally. I am now much more confident in taking small groups out on the water.
By Lynnea M. on June 03, 2024
Trip: DOMINICA: Paddling Waitukubuli Sea Trail
Guide: Michael G.
Exceptional trip! From the first day to the last, this was easily the most enjoyable and memorable trip I’ve done with Uncommon Adventures. Great boats to paddle (NDK Pilgrim Expedition in my case), great scenery, wonderful food, and exceptional company. Thanks so much for the ground work, Michael. This was wonderful.
By Carol A. on March 31, 2024
Trip: DOMINICA: Paddling Waitukubuli Sea Trail
Guide: Michael G.
No Words! This trip was transformative!
By Cyn F. on March 26, 2024
We're social
