Welcome to the liquid landscape of Tahquamenon Country. A trip to the Upper Peninsula isn’t complete without experiencing life on the water. Paddling opportunities range from beginner to advanced, so everyone has a chance to explore the many lakes, rivers and streams this area has to offer.
Eckerman Pond – Eckerman Pond is a paddler’s paradise. The pond itself and extension downstream is sure to add value to any Michigan canoe trip! A carry down launching area can be used for canoe or kayak access.
Hamilton Lake Natural Area – Hiking opportunities are available around the site, and don’t forget your canoe! Hamilton Lake offers a secluded and beautiful tour by water or land. Be sure to add it to your paddling trip.
Muskallonge Lake State Park – Muskallonge Lake, Lake Superior, and the many lakes surrounding the state park are available for paddling. Remember, only paddle Lake Superior on calm days. Don’t let your adventure extend beyond your abilities!
Two Hearted River – The Two Hearted River boasts several excellent canoeing trip locations of various difficulties. Canoeists seeking a challenge should consider traveling the South Branch, East Branch, and the mainstream above Reed and Green Bridge. The mainstream below the Reed and Green Bridge offers a more casual and relaxing journey, and is perfect for the less experienced canoeist. Wildlife enthusiasts have the opportunity to spot bear, fox, moose, and other species native to the Upper Peninsula. In the open fields south of the East Branch, you can usually find Michigan’s largest and most majestic bird, the sandhill crane.
Rivermouth Campground –Take the 1 mile paddle around Marsh Island, just off the rivermouth, and explore its many coves and inlets, or travel in the shallow waters along the shore of Lake Superior, stopping to explore Emerson Island along your way. Always take care when traveling the waters of Lake Superior. Small boat adventures are best taken on a calm day!
Tahquamenon River – Take in the beauty of the Tahquamenon River during a leisurely paddle from the Lower Tahquamenon Falls to the Tahquamenon Rivermouth. Blue jays, warblers, kingfishers, beaver, river otter, and more have been spotted near the river! The journey from the lower falls to the rivermouth is recommended for experienced paddlers only as it takes 6 hours to complete and opportunities to bring your canoe/kayak ashore to rest are infrequent.
If a full paddling trip between the falls and rivermouth seems too overwhelming, don’t be discouraged! A weaker current allows paddlers to enter the Tahquamenon River at the Lower Tahquamenon Falls and explore on their own route and time schedule. It’s even easy to paddle upstream! Don’t forget to pack a snack and bug spray!
Check out additional information about canoe/kayak rentals and paddling tours on the Tahquamenon River.
Paddling adventures can be had on the shores of Lake Superior at Whitefish Point. In fact, Woods and Waters Ecotours is now offering special shallow waters shipwreck tours in the area. This offer is what makes canoeing in the Upper Peninsula unique! Remember, only paddle Lake Superior on calm days. Don’t let your adventure extend beyond your abilities!