Glen Arbor’s Original Canoe & Kayak Outfitter
Since 1994, Crystal River Outfitters has safely sent both locals and visitors on exciting paddle trips down the Crystal River. For over 20 years we have maintained a 100% success rate, offered wonderful adventures for our guests of all ages, and established a great partnership with Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore.
We have expanded our business, now known as the Crystal River Outfitters Recreational District, to include bicycle rentals and service, expanded shopping for men, women and children, wine tasting, entertainment and special events.
“It is our mission to showcase the area’s natural beauty to our visitors – via boat and bike, while maintaining sustainable business practices.”
Owners since 2004, Matt and Katy Wiesen continuously strive to showcase the Crystal River and Glen Arbor to our guests, while keeping a deep commitment to safety and the preservation of the natural environment. It is our goal to provide the highest level of customer service and operate under sustainable business practices to assure future generations of the same pristine environment found by paddlers of today.
Katy & Matt, along with their General Manager Linette, Management Team, Nick, Julia, Kelly, Kait, Lucy & Karl and year-round staff members Chelsey, Dee, Leanne & Bill work hard to offer a year-round shopping and recreation destination.
“Perhaps one of our greatest joys in owning Crystal River Outfitters, are the 60+ employees we surround our guests with every summer. Our staff is comprised of both local and summer residents, many of whom have returned for multiple seasons.”
Accolades include: Traverse City Business News 40 under 40, My North Red Hot Best Winner, Leelanau Peninsula Chamber of Commerce Business of the Year 2024.
The District continues to support many local organizations including: Glen Lake Chamber of Commerce, Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, the Leelanau Conservancy, and TART Trails.
We look forward to you seeing you and thank you for visiting the Crystal River Outfitters Recreational District.
About the Area
The natural beauty of Glen Arbor and the Leelanau Peninsula have made this a relaxing retreat and destination for decades. Families and couples of all ages will find countless activities at their fingertips.
Many enjoy shopping in small boutiques, specialty shops and art galleries. All will savor the dining experiences offered by area restaurants – from casual take-out to fine dining. Recreation opportunities are endless and include kayaking or canoeing the Crystal River, biking the Sleeping Bear Heritage Trail, stand up paddle boarding, and exploring the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore.
Below are just a small sample of the area businesses. Please also visit the Glen Lake Chamber of Commerce the Leelanau Peninsula Chamber of Commerce or Traverse City for a more complete list of local businesses, activities and events that you can enjoy during your visit.