On its way from Gull Lake to the Kalamazoo River, Gull Creek flows through Graham Lake, Butterfield Lake, Three Lakes, and Howlandsburg Mill Pond. Only parts of the creek are navigable. All of the lakes can be paddled. This voyage follows Gull Creek through Butterfield and Graham Lakes. While kayaking this waterway, keep your eyes peeled for wildlife. There’s usually mute swans present and at times they can be aggressive. I have seen deer, beaver, muskrats, herons, geese, sandhill cranes, and ducks while paddling this water trail.
Access to Gull Creek is on Greer Road, between 35th Street and 37th Street in Kalamazoo County. The landing and parking are on the side of the road at the Gull Creek bridge.
The trip begins by heading upstream from the bridge. It’s a short paddle from the access at Greer Road to Butterfield Lake.
Butterfield Lake deserves a shoreline cruise.
Head upstream on Gull Creek from the north side of Butterfield Lake. Sometimes, the creek is hard to find due to thick vegetation. From Butterfield Lake to Graham Lake, the creek travels through marshland. There is a rickety footbridge that crosses the creek in the middle of the swamp. You can go under the bridge by slouching way down in your kayak. If you can’t get low enough, you can always portage the bridge, but it’s kind of a pain because of the swampy shoreline. I usually get out of my kayak directly onto the bridge, pass my kayak under the bridge, and lower myself into my boat. I find that this process is rather awkward, but it works.
After negotiating the bridge, continue upstream.
I recommend exploring the shoreline of Graham Lake. Big carp can be seen in the shallows along the shore.
You can kayak upstream on Gull Creek from Graham Lake for a short distance, but fallen trees will block your way.
The creek is shallow here with a hard sand bottom, so it’s a great spot to get out of your kayak and take a break.
Head back downstream to Graham Lake.
Paddle over to Gull Creek and head downstream.
You’ll have to contend with that bridge again.
Head down the creek to Butterfield Lake. Cross the lake and paddle down the creek to the bridge and the landing.
The scenery and remote feel make this trip one of the best in Kalamazoo County!
KAYAKING SOUTHWEST MICHIGAN 