Half-Day Fun Pass: Kayak, Bike and SUP Rental in Traverse City

Exploring the Half-Day Fun Pass: Kayak, Bike, and SUP Rental in Traverse City

Imagine spending a few hours on the water and on two wheels, exploring one of Michigan’s most scenic spots — without the hassle of planning every detail yourself. That’s exactly what the Half-Day Fun Pass at Boardman Lake offers. With a solid 5-star rating from numerous happy travelers, this experience combines water sports and biking into a flexible, family-friendly outing.

What we love about this tour? First, the variety of activities — you can paddle a kayak, stand-up paddleboard, or hop on a hybrid bike, all in one affordable package. Second, the convenience of equipment delivery directly to your accommodation or boat launch within 10 miles of Traverse City, which saves time and makes the experience stress-free.

One potential drawback might be the weather dependency — since this is an outdoor adventure, wind or rain can impact your plans. However, the tour’s flexible scheduling allows you to choose your preferred time of day, and cancellation is free if the weather turns poor.

This experience suits active folks, families, or groups looking for an authentic taste of Traverse City’s natural beauty without committing to a full-day tour. Whether you’re visiting for a weekend or just want a quick outdoor escape, this pass offers a great way to enjoy the area’s lakeside charm.

Key Points

• Flexible scheduling — pick your activity time within the 4-hour window
• All equipment included — kayaks, paddleboards, bikes, and helmets
• Delivery to your location — hassle-free setup near your accommodation or boat launch
• Great for families and beginners — equipment suits all skill levels
• Affordable and highly rated — excellent value at $70 per person
• Ideal for outdoor lovers — combines water and land activities in one outing

A Deep Dive into the Experience

The Half-Day Fun Pass starts at the location on 1910 W South Airport Rd, Traverse City. From there, the process is straightforward — you confirm your preferred start time, and the friendly staff ensures your gear is ready and waiting. If you’re staying near the lake or harbor, the staff will deliver your equipment right to your doorstep or a nearby boat launch, saving precious time and energy.

Once geared up, you can start with either biking or water activities. The hybrid bikes and Sun Bikes are designed to be comfortable, making them perfect for riders of all levels. If you’re new to biking, you’ll appreciate how easy and stable these bikes are to handle. The bike ride around Boardman Lake offers a pleasant, relaxed route with scenic views, with stops often at local spots like the Filling Station or Right Brain Brewery, as some reviews mention.

The water activities are equally accessible. The kayak and paddleboard options suit various skill levels, from total beginners to those already familiar with paddling. The reviews highlight how friendly and helpful the staff are, especially for first-time SUP users, emphasizing the supportive environment. One reviewer notes, “Great staff, first time with the SUPs and would do again,” which speaks volumes about their approachability and professionalism.

While the lake can be windy — a common trait of Michigan lakes — most find it manageable, and the flexibility to pick a calmer time of day makes all the difference. Some reviewers mention that the lake conditions can vary, but everyone agrees that the stunning views and peaceful experience outweigh the minor challenges.

A particularly popular feature is the self-guided nature of the experience, allowing you to paddle or bike at your own pace. One reviewer called it “a great way to spend a day in town getting some exercise while also having fun.” The autonomy means you can linger at scenic spots or move quickly if you’re on a schedule.

The price point of $70 per person provides excellent value, considering the full range of equipment and the flexibility offered. For a half-day of active outdoor fun, it’s a cost-effective way to enjoy Traverse City’s natural beauty without the expense or commitment of a full guided tour.

The Review Highlights from Travelers

The consistently high ratings — a 4.9 out of 5 — reflect overall satisfaction. Many reviews emphasize the friendly, knowledgeable staff, describing them as “super helpful, quick to help,” and “very sweet and informative.” This makes a big difference, especially for newcomers or families with children.

Many individuals appreciated the scenic beauty of Boardman Lake, calling it “stunning” and “beautiful,” and remarked how the flexibility to choose your activity and timing added to the experience. Several reviews mention stopping at local spots for snacks or drinks, turning a simple water and biking tour into a small adventure.

Some reviews noted minor setbacks, like the construction that prevented kayaking down the river, but most found the experience still enjoyable. The staff’s quick adaptation — offering alternative routes or experiences — kept everyone smiling.

Practical Details and Tips

The duration of about four hours makes it easy to fit into a busy day. You might start with a bike ride, then switch to kayaking or paddleboarding, or vice versa. The equipment is top-notch and well-maintained, so you don’t need to worry about gear quality.

Booking in advance is recommended — on average, this experience is booked 55 days ahead — which speaks to its popularity. The free cancellation policy provides flexibility, especially if weather turns sour.

Since all equipment can be delivered to your accommodation or a specified launch point, it’s ideal for travelers staying in Traverse City or nearby. Just plan to confirm your time and location when booking.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you enjoy outdoor activities and want a flexible, all-in-one adventure, this pass fits the bill. Families with kids or first-time paddlers will appreciate the support and simplicity. Active couples or friends can enjoy a mix of biking and water fun without the hassle of renting equipment separately.

Travelers seeking a cost-effective, scenic escape from urban life, but without the need for a full-day commitment, will find this experience perfect. It’s also an excellent choice for those who want to see Traverse City from the water and on land in a relaxed, unhurried way.

FAQs

Is the experience suitable for beginners? Yes, the equipment is designed to accommodate all skill levels, and the staff are helpful and friendly, making it ideal for first-timers.

Can I choose my activity time? Absolutely. The pass allows you to use it at your preferred time within the 4-hour window, offering flexibility to fit your plans.

What if the weather is bad? The tour requires good weather, but if poor weather causes cancellation, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Is transportation included? Equipment is delivered to your accommodation or boat launch within 10 miles, so you don’t need to worry about transportation logistics.

How much does it cost? The full experience costs $70 per person, which includes all equipment and flexible scheduling.

Can I bring my pet? Service animals are allowed, but other pets are not specified. Check with the provider if you plan to bring your furry friend.

Wrapping It Up

This Half-Day Fun Pass in Traverse City offers a wonderful way to enjoy the region’s natural beauty without the complications of planning every detail yourself. The combination of kayaking, paddleboarding, and biking gives you a taste of both lakeside serenity and scenic trails, making it ideal for active travelers who want flexibility and value.

The friendly staff, top-quality equipment, and stunning views make this experience stand out among outdoor activities in the area. You’ll love the chance to explore at your own pace, stop for local bites, and return home with a genuine sense of adventure — all in just a few hours.

Whether you’re visiting alone, with family, or friends, this tour offers a balanced mix of fun, relaxation, and outdoor exercise. It’s a straightforward, enjoyable way to experience Traverse City’s lakeside charm without breaking the bank.

Overall, if outdoor fun, scenic beauty, and flexibility are what you seek, the Half-Day Fun Pass at Boardman Lake is well worth the investment. It’s simple, approachable, and designed to give you a memorable, authentic taste of Michigan’s outdoor lifestyle.