How do I access Bowers Harbor?

Bowers Harbor is a public boat ramp in Michigan. There is no entrance fee. Hours: 0400_2300.

What activities are available at Bowers Harbor?

Bowers Harbor supports kayaking, stand up paddleboarding, sea kayaking. The difficulty level is rated beginner, making it great for all skill levels.

What amenities are at Bowers Harbor?

On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking, restrooms, dock, ada accessible. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.

When is the best time to visit Bowers Harbor?

The best time to paddle at Bowers Harbor is during summer. June through August

What are the water conditions at Bowers Harbor?

Water conditions at Bowers Harbor include sheltered, tidal.

Is Bowers Harbor good for beginners?

Yes, Bowers Harbor is rated beginner difficulty, making it an excellent choice for first-time paddlers and families. Calm, sheltered water suitable for first-time paddlers. No significant current or wave hazards expected.

green and brown boat on body of water during daytime

Photo by Mary Farrell on Unsplash

Activity

KayakingSUPSea KayakingBeginner

Conditions

BayShelteredTidal

Amenities

Boat RampParkingRestroomsDockADA Accessible

Best Time to Visit

Summer

Bowers Harbor

Old Mission, MI · Boat Ramp · Public

Bowers Harbor is a public boat ramp on West Arm Grand Traverse Bay near Old Mission, Michigan. This beginner-level spot offers kayaking, paddleboarding, sea kayaking. Amenities include boat ramp, parking, restrooms. Best visited in summer.

At a Glance

Water Body

Bay

Launch Type

Boat Ramp

Difficulty

Beginner

Hours

0400_2300

Activities

Kayaking, SUP, Sea Kayaking

Parking

Parking lot available at boat ramp facility

Cell Service

Limited

Calm, sheltered water suitable for first-time paddlers. No significant current or wave hazards expected.

About This Location

Bay access at Bowers Harbor near Old Mission, Michigan. Good for kayaking and sup.

Paddlers looking for protected waters in Michigan can launch from Bowers Harbor into West Arm Grand Traverse Bay.

This is a solid spot for kayaking, with enough room to settle into a comfortable paddling rhythm. Stand-up paddleboarding is popular here when winds are light, especially in the morning hours.

You can expect sheltered and tidal water when paddling here. The recommended season runs June through August. Facilities include boat ramp and parking and restrooms and dock and ada accessible.

Located about 5 min from Old Mission, Bowers Harbor is a convenient option for Old Mission-area paddlers.

New to paddling? This is a great beginner spot.

Calm bay waters make Bowers Harbor ideal for first-timers. Make sure you have the right gear:

Kayaks →Life Jackets →Paddles →

Paddling Tips

•Watch for boat traffic, especially in narrow channels and near marinas.
•Explore the shoreline for hidden coves and calm side channels.
•Bring binoculars — bays are excellent for bird and marine wildlife viewing.
•Check for any no-paddle zones or restricted areas near ports.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I access Bowers Harbor?: Bowers Harbor is a public boat ramp in Michigan. There is no entrance fee. Hours: 0400_2300.
What activities are available at Bowers Harbor?: Bowers Harbor supports kayaking, stand up paddleboarding, sea kayaking. The difficulty level is rated beginner, making it great for all skill levels.
What amenities are at Bowers Harbor?: On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking, restrooms, dock, ada accessible. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.
When is the best time to visit Bowers Harbor?: The best time to paddle at Bowers Harbor is during summer. June through August
What are the water conditions at Bowers Harbor?: Water conditions at Bowers Harbor include sheltered, tidal.
Is Bowers Harbor good for beginners?: Yes, Bowers Harbor is rated beginner difficulty, making it an excellent choice for first-time paddlers and families. Calm, sheltered water suitable for first-time paddlers. No significant current or wave hazards expected.

Location data: USGS ScienceBase · Water conditions: USGS NWIS · Weather: National Weather Service · Coordinates: 44.8948, -85.5248