William Duckwall, affectionately known as “Uncle Ducky,” has left an indelible mark on the local tourism industry through his parent umbrella company, Uncle Ducky Outdoors. Under this banner, he oversees eight distinctive enterprises in Christmas, Michigan; Grand Island Cruises, Paddling Michigan, The Duck Pond Eatery & Beer Garden, Paddler’s Village Campground, Au Train Beach Campground, Picture Rocks Transportation, Paddler’s Inn, and his newest venture Pictured Rocks Yurts. Duckwall’s dedication to the community, his zeal for adventure, and his business prowess have reshaped the region’s recreational landscape.
Duckwall’s journey in Munising began with a vision to offer unique experiences that would showcase the area’s natural beauty. “I wanted to create experiences that would not only be memorable but also highlight the incredible natural beauty of the Upper Peninsula,” said Duckwall. What started as a small kayaking business has evolved into a multifaceted tourism venture, offering a range of activities from kayaking tours to scenic boat cruises to Pictured Rocks Transportation, a new service designed for backpackers exploring the North Country Trail. This service offers secure parking and transportation to various trailheads, enhancing convenience and safety for outdoor enthusiasts.
Born and raised in Indiana, Duckwall’s love for the outdoors was instilled in him at a young age. As a seasoned pilot, known by his call sign “Uncle Ducky,” he even had the honor of flying the legendary Bob Hope around for a week, adding another exciting chapter to his adventurous life. However, it was Munising’s breathtaking scenery and untapped potential that drew Duckwall to make it his headquarters. “Munising has this raw, untouched beauty that captivated me from the start,” said Duckwall. “I saw an opportunity to share this with others and create experiences that would last a lifetime.”
Paddling Michigan has become a familiar name in Munising’s tourism industry, attracting visitors from across the country eager to explore the iconic Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore. Under Duckwall’s leadership, the business has grown exponentially, employing nearly 100 people during peak season and contributing significantly to the local economy. “It’s been a remarkable journey watching Uncle Ducky’s grow and evolve over the years,” said Duckwall. “Our team’s dedication and passion have been instrumental in our success.” While Duckwall’s businesses thrive primarily during the summer months, he acknowledges the challenges of maintaining yearround operations in a seasonal destination. “We can’t stay open in the winter,” said Duckwall. “It’s too hard.”
Greg Scott, who has served as William Duckwall’s manager for nearly 14 years, plays a pivotal role in the company’s success. “Greg is instrumental in our operations,” Duckwall emphasized. “His ability to connect all the dots ensures seamless operations.”
Long-standing associate Greg Scott highlighted Duckwall’s significant contribution to the company’s achievements, attributing much of the success to the absence of bureaucratic barriers typical in larger corporations. “Bill trusts his team implicitly, empowering us to take initiative and make decisions to efficiently accomplish tasks,” said Greg Scott.
When discussing his approach to managing the diverse aspects of the business, Scott emphasized adaptability over rigid planning. “I come to work ready to adapt to the day’s needs,” he explained. He relies heavily on a dependable crew, especially Miles Glendening and other long-term employees. Scott stressed the value of trust and dedication within the team, pointing to some as “lifers” who have been integral to the company’s success for years.
Miles Glendening serves as the Kayak Operations Manager for Duckwall’s enterprises, playing a crucial role in overseeing the kayaking operations. His primary focus lies in enhancing the efficiency, safety, and performance of the kayak team. Glendening spearheaded the development of Paddling Michigan’s in-house training program in partnership with the National Park Service. “As a certified instructor, I’ve crafted a manual that adheres to American Canoe Association (ACA) guidelines, along with a training task book that ensures our guides master essential skills such as boat maneuvering, self-rescue, and assisted rescue,” said Miles Glendening.
Duckwall places a premium on safety and customer satisfaction across his businesses. Each guide undergoes rigorous training aligned with ACA standards, guaranteeing the safety and well-being of all guests. “Our guides return year after year, benefiting from competitive summer wages and pursuing other opportunities in the winter months,” said Duckwall. “Safety remains our top priority; the trust of our guests is invaluable to us, and we continuously aim to surpass their expectations.” With state-of-the-art communication tools and a proactive approach to monitoring weather conditions, Duckwall’s team ensures that every adventure is both thrilling and secure.
When it comes to marketing, Duckwall employs a full spectrum of strategies to attract visitors to the area. From leveraging social media platforms like Facebook and Google to collaborating with WBAY in Green Bay for advertising, and engaging in traditional paper advertising through brochures and publications from the Visitors Bureau, Duckwall ensures his businesses remain visible and appealing to potential tourists.
Beyond kayaking and boat cruises, Duckwall’s commitment to innovation is evident in his latest project – the introduction of yurts overlooking Munising Bay. This addition not only enhances the visitor experience but also reinforces Duckwall’s dedication to sustainable tourism practices. “We’re always looking for ways to enhance our services and provide unique experiences for our guests,” said Duckwall. “The yurts are a perfect example of that.”
Sourcing locally is a priority for Duckwall’s businesses, with frequent purchases from Munising-based suppliers like 41 Lumber and Madigan’s Hardware, which they refer to as their parts department. This commitment to local commerce reflects Duckwall’s dedication to the community and its economic growth. Staying connected with the local community is crucial for Duckwall. Active involvement in local organizations, such as the Alger County Chamber of Commerce, and collaborations with nearby businesses reinforce his commitment to community growth and development. From supporting fishing tournaments to contributing to firefighter organizations, Duckwall’s contributions extend beyond his business interests. “Community engagement has always been a priority for me,” said Duckwall. “We’re not just business owners; we’re part of this community, and it’s important to give back.”
As Munising continues to be popular as a must-visit destination, Duckwall remains optimistic about the future. While there may be limited land available for expansion, Duckwall’s focus is on enhancing existing offerings, upgrading equipment, and exploring progressive ways to cater to the evolving needs of his customers.
Reflecting on his journey, Duckwall attributes his success to hiring exceptional people and fostering a culture of excellence and forward-thinking. “Surrounding myself with a talented and dedicated team has been key to our success,” said Duckwall. “Together, we’ve been able to create experiences that resonate with our guests and keep them coming back year after year.”
William Duckwall’s story stands as evidence of the power of vision. As Munising’s tourism ambassador, Duckwall’s approach to global marketing engagement and dedication to unparalleled experiences have set him apart in the industry. His legacy will undoubtedly inspire future generations of entrepreneurs and adventurers to explore, innovate, and make a lasting positive impact on the communities they serve.
