Soak up all that the fall season has left to offer by taking to one of the Cadillac Area’s two magnificent rivers. The Big Manistee River, a wide, smooth flowing river with many great places to get out and enjoy picnics, camping, and fishing; or give the Pine River a try, more narrow, swift and a true challenge. Fall color views from the water are second to none!
Upper Big Manistee River Fall Color Float
Baxter Bridge to Harvey Bridge – Approx. 5.5 hour float. This stretch offers excellent fall color and is easily accessible on both ends. This is one of the most scenic areas of the upper Big Manistee River. This is also a great float to make an overnight trip as there are many areas you can camp along the river between these two popular drop in locations.
Lower Big Manistee River Fall Color Float
Hodenpyl Dam to Red Bridge – Approx. 4.0 hour float. This may be the most scenic stretch of the Big Manistee with high sweeping banks flooded with fall color, you will start by passing under the longest pedestrian foot bridge in the Lower Peninsula and end at the backwaters of Tippy Dam at Red Bridge.
Peterson Bridge to Low Bridge – Approx. 2.5 hour float. If some Class I and Class II whitewater paddling is your cup of tea, look no further than this half day float on the Pine River. If you don’t have a watercraft, no worries, rent from Pine River Paddlesports Center.
