Kayaking
To say that Door County is a kayaker's haven is a profound understatement. The Door Peninsula boasts nearly 300 miles of scalloped coastline, with Lake Michigan to the east, Sturgeon Bay and the ship canal to the south, Green Bay to the west and Death's Door, with its smattering of islands, to the north. The proximity of water in every direction is dazzling.
Especially convenient is the peninsula's orientation. When the wind blows from the west, the Lake Michigan shoreline provides calm waters. If an easterly develops, Door County's Green Bay coast is the place to be. Either way, myriad kayak destinations lie within easy reach for beginners, intermediates and experts.
Simply, there's something for everyone.
Just a few of the favorites include Peninsula State Park to Ephraim and the Mink River Estuary. Beginners may find the inland lakes, Europe and Kangaroo, appropriate with their shallower depths and warmer temperatures. On the other hand, the unpredictability of the waves and the chilly waters of Lake Michigan is best left for the more experienced kayaker.
Rock Island is a favorite of many, although the open-water passage from Washington Island is best left to experienced paddlers. A beginner may still experience the adventure; simply bring the kayak aboard the Karfi ferry and stick to the shallows.
Cave Point remains a primary destination, but, again, wave and temperature conditions must be considered before heading into the bigger bodies of water.
Kayaking on Green Bay is also very popular with paddling beneath the bluffs near Ellison Bay being particularly scenic. Door County is a whole new experience from the water. But before heading out, take some safety precautions.
As for training, too many people who own kayaks do not know how to safely rescue themselves or their partners if they tip over. For that reason, sit-on-top kayaks are great for beginners. They can always step up to a more intermediate kayak once they find they are using it more than once a year.
Taking a kayaking course is advisable. There is a lot to learn when it comes to kayaking on your own or with a partner so touching base with one of the county's numerous outfitters is a good idea both in terms of safety and touring.
