Au Sable River Kayaking

Looking for fun activities can you do just a short drive from Presque Isle?  Try kayaking, canoeing, or tubing the Au Sable River, a large river located mainly within state land which runs from Frederic Township in Crawford County and empties into Lake Huron at Oscoda.

A great place to begin your journey is the small town of Mio, which is located about a 90 minute drive from Presque Isle.  You can rent canoes, kayaks, tubes, rafts, and other equipment along including transportation to and from the river from Gott's Landing or Hinchman Acres if you don't have your own gear.

From Mio, you can either take a short 2.5 hour trip to Comins or a longer 5 hour trip to McKinley.  Over this weekend, we took the long trip and had a blast!  Be sure to bring LOTS of sunscreen, bug spray, food and water, rain gear, and a water cannon (for the young or young at heart!)  The river is quite crowded on weekends and holidays in midsummer months but quieter on weekdays and after Labor Day. 

Other than a small stretch for about a half hour after Comins, the river is mostly uninhabited and wildlife can be seen everywhere.  Aspiring nature photographers may wish to bring a camera (bring a waterproof case or buy a disposable waterproof version.)  On this particular trip, we saw a bald eagle, snapping turtle, blue heron, beaver, frogs, and many other waterfowl.  And bugs!  Can't forget about the bugs!

This trip is the perfect way to connect with your loved ones and nature with a minimal monetary and time investment.  All you need is a vehicle with a half a tank of gas, boats and trailer if you have one (or about $30-$40 for canoe rental), a few necessities, and an afternoon!

Also, don't miss - or try to kayak during - the annual 120 mile Au Sable River Canoe Marathon, often called America's Toughest Spectator Sport.  This race runs from Grayling to Oscoda and will be held from July 26 through July 31 this year.

We will share more fun things to do close to home throughout the year!  Stay tuned!