How do I access Rainbow Drive?

Rainbow Drive is a public boat ramp in Michigan. There is no entrance fee. Hours: Open at all times.

What activities are available at Rainbow Drive?

Rainbow Drive supports kayaking, canoeing, stand up paddleboarding, kayak fishing. The difficulty level is rated beginner, making it great for all skill levels.

What amenities are at Rainbow Drive?

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 Rainbow Drive?

The best time to paddle at Rainbow Drive is during summer. June through August

What are the water conditions at Rainbow Drive?

Water conditions at Rainbow Drive include calm, sheltered.

Is Rainbow Drive good for beginners?

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

green trees and body of water during daytime

Photo by Joel Gaff on Unsplash

Activity

KayakingCanoeingSUPKayak FishingBeginner

Conditions

LakeCalmSheltered

Amenities

Boat RampParkingRestroomsDockADA Accessible

Best Time to Visit

Summer

Rainbow Drive

East Tawas, MI · Boat Ramp · Public

Rainbow Drive is a public boat ramp on Tawas Lake near East Tawas, Michigan. This beginner-level spot offers kayaking, canoeing, paddleboarding. Amenities include boat ramp, parking, restrooms. Best visited in summer.

At a Glance

Water Body

Lake

Launch Type

Boat Ramp

Difficulty

Beginner

Hours

Open at all times

Activities

Kayaking, Canoeing, SUP, Kayak Fishing

Parking

Parking lot available at boat ramp facility

Cell Service

Good

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

About This Location

Public launch on Tawas Lake in Michigan. Beginner-friendly lake paddling near East Tawas.

Paddlers visiting Tawas Lake in Michigan can launch from Rainbow Drive, a well-positioned access point on the lake.

This is a solid spot for kayaking, with enough room to settle into a comfortable paddling rhythm. Canoeing works well here, especially for those looking for a peaceful day on the water. Great Lakes paddling combines freshwater vastness with coastal-style conditions and scenery.

Conditions here tend to be calm and sheltered, making it suitable for paddlers of all skill levels. Plan your visit for June through August. Facilities include boat ramp and parking and restrooms and dock and ada accessible.

At about 5 min from East Tawas, Rainbow Drive is a practical choice for paddlers based in the East Tawas area.

New to paddling? This is a great beginner spot.

Calm lake waters make Rainbow Drive ideal for first-timers. Make sure you have the right gear:

Kayaks →Life Jackets →Paddles →

Paddling Tips

•Hug the shoreline for the most interesting scenery and easier paddling.
•Bring polarized sunglasses to reduce glare and spot submerged obstacles.
•If fishing, try the coves and points where fish tend to congregate.
•Morning hours offer the calmest water and best wildlife viewing on the lake.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I access Rainbow Drive?: Rainbow Drive is a public boat ramp in Michigan. There is no entrance fee. Hours: Open at all times.
What activities are available at Rainbow Drive?: Rainbow Drive supports kayaking, canoeing, stand up paddleboarding, kayak fishing. The difficulty level is rated beginner, making it great for all skill levels.
What amenities are at Rainbow Drive?: 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 Rainbow Drive?: The best time to paddle at Rainbow Drive is during summer. June through August
What are the water conditions at Rainbow Drive?: Water conditions at Rainbow Drive include calm, sheltered.
Is Rainbow Drive good for beginners?: Yes, Rainbow Drive is rated beginner difficulty, making it an excellent choice for first-time paddlers and families. Calm, flat 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: 44.2925, -83.5028