Uncommon Adventures

About Us

5.0 (48 reviews)

We specialize in guided paddling adventures - both expedition style kayaking and lodge-based paddling retreats - in the Great LakesGreenland, IcelandAlaska 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. 

Est. 1984 Benzonia, Michigan

Contact Us

6721 Grace Road
231 882 5525

Read more
Read less



Reviews

5.0 (48 reviews)

Trip: DOMINICA: Paddling Waitukubuli Sea Trail

Guide: Michael G.

Awesome trip. Getting to Dominica early was fun and then the paddling, snorkeling, dining and time with friends new and old was great. Well organized. Kerry was a fabulous guide to this incredible island.

By Cynthia D. on March 25, 2024


Trip: DOMINICA: Paddling Waitukubuli Sea Trail

Guide: Michael G.

What an amazing, amazing experience! This one will stay with me for a long time. The paddling was perfect, the island is beautiful, the people are amazing!

By Lori S. on March 25, 2024


Trip: DOMINICA: Paddling Waitukubuli Sea Trail

Guide: Michael G.

This was a wonderful trip in a stunningly beautiful location. Trip leaders Michael Gray, Kerry Alleyne, and Lisa Deziel went over and above to support paddlers on and off the water. Excellent NDK kayaks, superb meals (some prepared by Michael himself), comfortable accommodations, interesting land excursions, ongoing commentary on the island's history and culture as we paddled north, shuttles, early morning coffee...all logistics were handled expertly. If you enjoy sea kayaking, this is a gorgeous place to do it in with experienced, safety-conscious, and fun guides.

By Jill L. on March 25, 2024


Trip: Baja Rock Gardening Trip at La Bufadora

Guide: Michael G.

Bucket list trip: fantastic Big Pacific Water and Big Rocks! Jen Kleck keeps you safe while building your abilities in the most positive way. She is an all time great instructor. Everyone far exceeded their personal expectations. Victor Leon has a very beautiful spot on the bay, and the food was great. February is baby seal time, so many babies and mamas.

By Louise F. on March 06, 2024


Trip: Baja Rock Gardening Trip at La Bufadora

Guide: Michael G.

It was magical, I’ll be signing up for next year.

By Brad V. on March 03, 2024


Trip: Baja Rock Gardening Trip at La Bufadora

Guide: Michael G.

The waves were really scary the first few days, but the local guide was able to find sheltered areas where we could paddle. I learned a lot, and was more confident able reading and handling surf and rock features by the end. As always, the food was great!

By Mary W. on February 26, 2024


Trip: Isle Royale Explorer

Guide: Michael G.

Great trip! Well planned, well executed. I'm looking forward to my next trip with Uncommon Adventures.

By Terry M. on August 28, 2023


Trip: Isle Royale Explorer

Guide: Michael G.

Absolutely awesome and magical! Michael is a real pro and also an amazing cook! It was an unforgettable experience!

By Lisa L. on August 15, 2023


Trip: Isle Royale Explorer

Guide: Michael G.

We enjoyed 7 nights on Isle Royale with our guides Michael Gray and Lisa Deziel. This was a spectacular trip of some 60 miles along the exposed NE coasts of the island. With the exception of our last day, Lake Superior afforded us placid waters with an abundant sighting of the Common Loon, the Common merganser with chicks, the Bald Eagle, the Merlin, beaver, the Kingfisher, the Cedar waxwing, and a distant sighting of an amphibious moose. Michael’s intimate knowledge of the island’s history, including its past fishing and mining extraction industry, location of moose trails into secluded inland lakes, prized fishing holes and campsites were exceptional. His knowledge of the history, flora, fauna & cultures of the island were very informative & revealing. Our trip was well planned, including our meals which included fresh caught, pan-fried Northern trout and Pike, salads and often a baked desert. Breakfasts were not to be missed! Our small group camaraderie never lacked for a sense of humor, long stories, and the occasional reminder that we need to work as a team.

By Connie W. on August 07, 2023


Trip: Isle Royale Explorer

Guide: Michael G.

7 days of kayaking Lake Superior at Isle Royale was amazing. The beauty of both Isle Royale and Lake Superior was incredible. Thank you Michael for guiding us on this trip. We woke up each morning to a beautiful views, great coffee and delicious breakfasts. The days were filled with kayaking, hiking, fishing, and fun. Great meals, including fresh trout and pike. Laughter, friendships, rest, and lake swims filled the evenings. Thank you for the wonderful memories.

By Lavon C. on July 31, 2023