Au Sable River Corridor
Lauren Coin
| 4 min read
The Au Sable River is one of Michigan’s most extensive and historic river systems. Located in the northern part of the Lower Peninsula, the river stretches more than138 miles and flows through towns like Grayling, Mio and Oscoda. Six hydroelectric dams create large “ponds” popular for boating and fishing.
A 23-mile portion of the river was designated as a National Wild and Scenic River in 1984 in recognition of its remarkable scenic, recreational and historical values, according to the United States Forest Service.
From paddling along the water to wandering wooded trails, the Au Sable River offers endless opportunities for visitors looking to enjoy Michigan’s natural beauty.
Canoeing and kayaking
The Au Sable River is known as one of the best canoeing rivers in the Midwest because of its clear waters, meandering bends and picturesque views. The river flows steadily at an average speed of three to four miles an hour and has an average depth of two to four feet, although some sections can get as deep as 30 feet.
You can bring your own boat for the trip or rent a kayak or canoe from one of the various liveries along the water. Many of these rental companies also provide shuttle services.
River routes can range from a few hours to multiple days depending on your trip itinerary.
Hiking trails
Explore wooded areas along the Au Sable River by foot on one of the many hiking trails.
The Au Sable River Trail is a 3.1-mile loop near Grayling that runs through the Hartwick Pines State Park. The Highbanks Trail west of Oscoda runs for 7 miles along the river’s bluffs and leads you past scenic overlooks.
Discover more outdoor adventures at the Huron-Manistee National Forest. Hike, bike or horseback ride through the forest trails located near the Au Sable River.
The various trails are popular destinations for birdwatchers and hikers alike. Keep an eye out for the Kirtland warbler or bald eagles, as well as any other wildlife you may cross paths with on your adventure. Tuttle Marsh Wildlife Area near Oscoda offers a chance to see many types of birds in this 5,000-acre wetland.
Enjoy the trails all year round as many offer cross-country skiing and snowshoeing in the winter.
Fishing
The Au Sable River is a premier cold-water fishing location. Depending on the time of year you may find steelhead, salmon, bass or trout. The river offers a variety of fishing opportunities, but one main draw to anglers is fly fishing.
Some famous spots to fish or paddle by include:
- Burton’s Landing
- Wakeley Creek
- Rainbow Point
- Stephan Bridge Landing
- Mio Dam Pond
- Big Creek
Camping
Stay overnight near the river at one of the developed or primitive camp sites. The Huron-Manistee National Forest has many sites, but they may require a fee or reservation. Be sure to check their website before planning a trip.
Other campgrounds along the Au Sable River include White Pine Canoe Campground, Keystone Landing State Forest Campground and Lumberman’s Monument Campground.
Explore scenic spots
There are multiple scenic locations you can add to your river trip.
Iargo Springs, about 20 miles west of Oscoda, shows the natural springs that flow into the Au Sable River. Get some exercise and head down more than 350 steps from the high banks to walk along boardwalks for stunning views of waterfalls, springs and a panoramic view of the river.
Just down the road to the east, learn about Michigan’s timber history at Lumberman’s Monument. See the 14-foot-tallbronze statue honoring the workers of the logging industry on a high bank near the river and head down the steps to the river to see a replica 19th-century floating cook shack. While there, take a walk through the forest and see beautiful views of Horseshoe Island from an observation deck at this historical landmark.
Take in the river by car by driving down the River Road National Scenic Byway, a 22-mile road that runs parallel to the Au Sable River to get to the shores of Lake Huron.
Photo credit: Courtesy of Lindsay Knake
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