Great Lakes Sea Kayak Symposium
Community • Learning • Adventure
Grand Marais, Michigan
July 14th - 18th, 2027
Join us in Grand Marais, Michigan, for a unique blend of community, learning, and adventure on Lake Superior. This symposium is designed for paddlers of all levels, offering opportunities to enhance your skills and connect with fellow paddlers.
What to Expect
Community
The symposium brings together paddlers and coaches who share a respect for the lake and for one another. Conversations, meals, and moments on the water build connections that last long after the event.
Learning
Learning here is steady and lasting. It’s not about how much you can take in but how deeply you can understand. Each session builds naturally, leaving room to breathe, absorb, and grow with confidence.
Adventure
Explore Lake Superior’s wild shoreline and let the water shape your experience. Each paddle brings discovery, challenge, and the power of being fully present on the lake.
Who It’s For
Welcoming All Skill Levels
The Great Lakes Sea Kayak Symposium is open to everyone, from first-time paddlers to seasoned sea kayakers. Our sessions are designed to build foundational strokes, refine techniques, and enhance skills, all while using our scenic shoreline as our classroom.
Participants can expect to gain confidence on the water, learn new techniques, and connect with a community of like-minded adventurers. Whether you’re looking to improve your skills or you’re just getting started, this is the space for YOU.
Discover Grand Marais, MI
Lake Superior as Your Classroom
Grand Marais, Michigan, offers a picturesque setting for sea kayaking enthusiasts. Nestled on the shores of Lake Superior, this charming town is a gateway to the stunning Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore. With its protected harbor and access to open waters, it’s an ideal location for both beginners and seasoned paddlers to hone their skills and enjoy the natural beauty of the Great Lakes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Discover answers to frequently asked questions about the Great Lakes Sea Kayak Symposium, helping you prepare for an unforgettable experience.
Are there skill level requirements?
No. All levels are welcome, from first-time instruction to advanced coaching. If you are new to formal instruction, choose the New to Me track. Everyone else will use a guided self-assessment on Thursday to determine their challenge level.
Is equipment rental available?
Yes! Thanks to our sponsors, we can offer gear and boats at no charge. The Power of Water is an outfitter in Lansing, MI and has items for sale as well.
What should I bring to the symposium?
Bring personal paddling gear, boat and appropriate clothing for water activities. A detailed packing list will be provided upon registration. Our sponsors have provided gear and boats at no additional cost. Must complete the gear request form by June 1st. Gear is assigned based on a first request basis.
What is the cancellation policy?
100% credit can be given towards next year’s GLSKS or The Power of Water courses.
What accommodations are nearby?
Grand Marais offers a range of accommodations, including campgrounds, lodges, and hotels. Early booking is recommended due to high demand during the symposium. We are working with the campground to secure spots ahead of the general public. This will happen in early 2026, don’t wait to secure your spot if you’re thinking of camping.
When Should I Register?
We have sold out by early spring for the past several years in a row. Don’t wait to secure your spot. They fill up quickly.
Our sponsors make GLSKS possible
We've Got Your Covered!
No gear, no problem. Loaner sea kayaks, drysuits/semisry suits, life jackets (PFDs), spray decks, and paddles are available at no extra cost for paddlers who need them. If you have your own kit, please bring it.
We will also have demos if you have your own gear but want to try something new.
Gear survey available on March 1st. Due June 1st.
About the Symposium
The Great Lakes Sea Kayak Symposium is a premier event for paddlers of all levels, offering a unique opportunity to learn from expert coaches, explore the stunning Lake Superior coastline, and connect with a vibrant community of kayaking enthusiasts.
Why Join Us
As the longest-running sea kayak symposium in the USA, we pride ourselves on delivering exceptional experiences that combine adventure, learning, and camaraderie in the beautiful setting of Grand Marais, Michigan.