The past two summers I’ve found myself tagging along to Evart, Michigan, and taking a trip down the river. Being from the East side of the state, I’d often boat on Lake St. Clair or visit Stony Creek Metropark, but I had never experienced the slow-paced relaxation found while floating along the Muskegon River. This has been a tradition in my boyfriend’s family for years so it’s something I’ve come to look forward to each summer.
J & J’s River Run is a rental company located right on the Muskegon River that provides equipment and a bus ride back to the starting point once you’ve reached the end. We arrive at the shop, pick out an open-bottom or closed-bottom tube, then take off on the river for a few hours. J & J’s also offers kayaks, rafts, and canoes.
We bring along some snacks and drinks then relax for hours to follow. Sometimes we will come across turtles or ducks that are enjoying the swift movement of the water along with us.
On the river, we play games and listen to music but it’s a guarantee that we spend most of the time goofing off and telling stories. Each time we’re floating down the river, we all laugh and share memories that we’ve made throughout the years. It’s a great time to reflect on the past while looking forward to the future. It’s allowed us to become closer since we’re given the time to do nothing but relax, chat, and float.
In a fast-paced society that’s inevitably dominated by technology, there’s nothing better than having warm West Michigan weekends to unplug, unwind, and spend time with your loved ones. As an East Sider converted to a West Sider, it’s safe to say I never would have experienced this activity if it weren’t for the invigorating outdoor activities found in West Michigan. Sometimes it can be just what you need to refresh your mind, admire the beauty of the region, and relax before beginning another week full of surprises and adventures.
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