Au Sable River

Grayling, Michigan

1 Review

Summary Trail Guide Topo Map Reviews Photos GPS

DESCRIPTION FROM:

Paddling Michigan

by Kevin Hillstrom & Laurie Collier Hillstrom (Falcon Guides)

One of America’s legendary trout streams, the Au Sable has cool, clear waters and an attractive shoreline—bristling with launch sites, campgrounds, and forestland—that make it tremendously popular with canoeists as well as anglers. The Au Sable is Michigan’s most beloved river.

Rich in history, scenic beauty, and recreational opportunities, it is regarded by thousands of anglers and paddlers as the brightest star in Michigan’s galaxy of sparkling streams and bustling rivers. The birthplace of Trout Unlimited and the current home of the famous Au Sable Canoe Marathon, the Au Sable holds a special place in the heart of every Michigan sports enthusiast.

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Trail Statistics and Information


Activity Type:	Flatwater Kayaking & Canoeing
Nearby City:	Grayling
Distance:	115
Skill Level:	Easy
Duration:	35 - 50 hours
Class:	Class I
Season:	Best May to October
Local Contacts:	Huron National Forest, Au Sable State Forest
Local Maps:	USGS Grayling, Wakeley Lake, Luzerne, Red Oak, Mio, Fairview, McKinley, Alcona Dam Pond, Hale, Loud Dam, Sid Town, Foote Site Village, Oscoda
Driving Directions:	Directions to Au Sable River

Recent Trail Reviews

Ross A.

Rating:

Date of Trip: 8/5/2007

The upper Ausable River was very good, with sections of both fast moving and slower deep sections. I actually changed the start of the trip to the south branch starting near Roscommon (first 20+ miles of the trip) - it was much more natural with trees spanning the river; you either had to maneuver under small openings or paddle over the top of tree trunk waterfalls. I would recommend the south branch more for river kayaks than canoes (but it can be run with a canoe - we ran one kayak and one canoe). After the branches join there was a good variety of water flow. Camp at the Rainbow Bend Campground - it breaks the 40+ miles to Mio nearly in half.