The Straits of Mackinac is a narrow saltwater channel connecting Lake Huron and Lake Michigan, forming the boundary between Michigan's Upper and Lower Peninsulas. It is a major shipping lane with significant boat traffic. The water body passes under the Mackinac Bridge and flows between several islands, including Mackinac Island, Round Island, and Bois Blanc Island. For paddlers, the area offers open-water crossings under the bridge or across to Mackinac Island, though these routes are for experienced kayakers only. A common and scenic day trip is the 8-mile route around Mackinac Island itself, which features limestone bluffs, dramatic rock formations, sea caves, and Arch Rock. Key mainland access points include the St. Ignace shoreline and McGulpin Point on the Lower Peninsula. McGulpin Point is a carry-in launch site with a gravel and cobble beach, but boulders on the shore and in the water make launching and landing difficult during windy conditions. Waters in the Straits are challenging, characterized by strong currents and waves. Rental services and guided tours are available from outfitters like Mackinac Straits Watersports Rental Co. in St. Ignace and Great Turtle Kayak Tours on Mackinac Island, which provide kayaks and stand-up paddleboards. The shoreline west of McGulpin Point is county-owned, while the shoreline east toward the bridge is lined with homes. Given the exposure, wind conditions are a primary safety consideration, and paddlers must be vigilant of commercial vessel traffic in this busy channel.