Fall Color River Rafting: 8 Places in Michigan that Will Hook You Up
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Splash Into Michigan’s Fall Colors – Float Down a River!
Michigan is on the map when it comes to captivating fall colors. And while driving or even taking a chairlift ride is a common way to take in the scenery, have you considered rafting?
Some of the best fall kayaking spots in Michigan combine calm water with forests that put you right in the middle of the fall color show.
Rafting gives you a whole new perspective – and it’s a perfect activity for people who haven’t paddled much. Bring the toddlers and the grandparents – the whole family can likely fit into your raft and enjoy the experience together. And, because river rafts are super stable, it’s hard to tip over.
Keep reading for our favorite places to float and paddle this season.
Fall River Rafting Spots
Michigan has thousands of miles of rivers and streams to explore, and you don’t have to own your own kayak to enjoy!
Many outfitters rent rafts or kayaks and provide paddles and life jackets, and some offer shuttle services that make logistics much easier. If that sounds good, here’s a list of top places in Michigan offering fall river rafting rentals:
Riverside Canoe Trips
Honor, MI 49640
Tucked away in the famous Sleeping Bear Dunes, the Platte River offers a tranquil float that promises vibrant colors and serene nature views.
Plus, in late September and October, the salmon are running and you’ll likely see the sturdy fish swimming upstream! Beyond that, you’ll end up at Lake Michigan, too, which is an added treat.
Pine River Paddlesports
Wellston, MI 49689
The Pine River, near Cadillac, is one of the fastest-moving river in Michigan’s lower peninsula (4-7 mph). Navigate through Pine River’s breathtaking twists and turns surrounded by Michigan’s signature fall colors – and if you’re in a raft – you will probably stay dry on your trip.
After Labor Day, it’s free to kayak on the Pine River through Manistee National Forest, and fall paddles mean cooler breezes, fewer bugs, and really pretty views.
Jordan Valley Outfitters
East Jordan, MI 49727
The Jordan River is another one of the faster-moving rivers in Michigan. It’s spring-fed, crystal clear, and about three to four feet deep.
Running through the State Forest, you’ll see a lot of cedar trees and hardwoods hugging its banks.
The river is peppered with sticks, branches, and beaver dams that turn your paddling journey into a game of “how good can you steer? and duck?!” It’s a lot of fun!
Jordan River Outfitters allows up to eight people per raft.
Trip Duration options are for 1.5 or 3 hours
Hinchman Acres
Box 220, Mio, MI 48647
The AuSable River is one of Michigan’s loveliest rivers. It’s pristine. And it runs through miles of protected forest. It’s also a “Blue Ribbon Trout Stream.”
Famous with canoers, it’s also a nice place to float in a raft. High banks covered with trees yield amazing fall color scenes.
Nearby River Road and Lumberman’s Monument are also worth a stop if you’re in the area.
Wisner Rents Canoes
Newaygo, MI 49337
This section of the Big Muskegon River is perfect for paddlers of all skill levels.
The river, carving through high banks and low tree-covered areas, offers stunning scenery at every bend. From pine, oak, maple, beech, and aspen trees, you get a visual treat. Also, don’t forget to spot the majestic bald eagles nesting nearby.
Trip Options- Thornapple to Newaygo: Long Raft trip (4.5 hrs) & Newaygo to Anderson: Short Raft Trip (2.5 hrs)
Big Bear Adventures
Indian River, MI 49749
The Sturgeon River is the fastest river in Michigan’s Lower Peninsula, although it doesn’t qualify as whitewater.
Its swift current, leaning trees, stumps, and logs are not a problem on a raft trips, though, thanks to the raft’s added stability.
All river trips end at Burt Lake State Park.
Call ahead on May and October weekdays.
Sturgeon River Paddlesports
Wolverine, MI 49799
Sturgeon River Paddlesports in downtown Wolverine is a full service livery offering kayak, canoe, raft and tube rentals on the upper portion of the Sturgeon River.
In the fall, you need to call ahead and make a reservation.
AAA Canoe and Kayak Rentals
Rockford, MI 49341
AAA Canoe & Kayak Rentals is the Rockford area’s finest full service provider of canoe, kayak and tube float trips on the scenic Rogue River for 45 years.
Whether a beginner or an experienced paddler, the Rogue River offers a relaxing and leisurely adventure.
FAQs
Is the water too cold to raft in the Fall in Michigan?
Fall tubing is very different from the classic hot-summer-day float. The biggest consideration is water temperature.
Early fall, when air and water temperatures are still comfortable, can be a fun time for a float. As temperatures drop, though, tubing becomes much less forgiving if you end up in the water.
Anytime you participate in water activities in Michigan, be prepared to get wet. As the season gets colder, its smart to choose your trip based on weather, water temps, and your experience level.
What should I wear for fall river rafting in Michigan?
Dress for the water, not just the weather. Layers are your friend, and you’ll want clothing that can handle getting wet.
Avoid cotton if you’re heading out on a chilly day. Quick-drying or moisture-wicking layers are a better choice. Water shoes or another secure shoe that can get wet are also a good idea.
And as the season gets colder, especially if you’re paddling on colder water, consider a wetsuit or drysuit rather than relying on regular clothing.
Do I need to own a kayak or my own raft?
You don’t have to buy a kayak to enjoy Michigan’s rivers.
Many outfitters rent kayaks or rafts and provide paddles and life jackets, and some offer shuttle services that make logistics much easier. Michigan DNR also partners with businesses offering rentals and guided trips at select locations.
For a first-timer, renting is probably the easiest way to find out whether river kayaking is your thing before investing in your own boat.
How long does a typical Michigan river float take?
Usually a float is an hour or two, but can last much longer if you don’t know all the details. Make sure to look at your route ahead of time, know where to enter and exit the river, and get all the information from the outfitter you rent tubes or kayaks from.
Make it a Fall Day Trip
Pair your paddle with a cider mill, scenic hike, small-town shopping, a cozy restaurant, brewery, winery or farm market, and suddenly you’ve got the perfect fall day trip.
Whether you’re spending a few hours on the river or making a weekend of it, kayaking gives you a fun way to experience Michigan’s fall colors from a whole new perspective. So grab a few layers, pick a river and make a day of it. There’s no better time to get out and explore Michigan.
What do you think? Will you go on a fall river float? If you’ve been, let us know about your trip in the comments.
