|
River
|
County
|
Reach
|
Length (miles)
|
Year Listed/ Updated
|
Potential
Classi- fication
|
ORVs
|
Description
|
Other States
|
| Au Gres
River, East Branch |
Iosco |
Mouth
to Hale |
28
|
1982
|
|
R, F |
A good
small stream for canoeing with very good fishing, including
trout and salmon. A designated state trout stream. Flows through
mainly forest lands. |
|
| Au Sable
River |
Otsego,
Montmorency, Crawford, Oscoda, Alcona, Roscommon, and Iosco |
From
confluence of Kolka and Bradford Creeks at T28N, R04W, Sec.
23 to Mio Pond Dam at T26N, R02E, Sec. 11, and from Alcona Dam
to Loud Dam Pond at T24N, R06E, Sec. 21. |
75
|
1995
|
S
|
S, R,
F, W |
The
segment of the Au Sable from Mio Pond to Alcona Pond is not
included in the description of reach because it is all ready
on the National Wild and Scenic Rivers system. The entire Au
Sable River from the confluence of Kolka and Bradford Creeks
to Loud Dam (98 miles) is a State Designated Natural River.
The state of Michigan considers the following tributaries vital
to the protection of the mainstem: Kolka Cr., Bradford Cr.,
East Branch, South Branch, Douglas Cr., Thayer Cr., Hudson Cr.,
Beaver Cr., Robinson Cr., East Cr., South Cr., North Branch,
Turtle Cr., Chub Cr., Big Creek (Crawford), West Br., Big Cr.,
Middle Br. Big Cr., East Br. Big Cr., Big Creek (Oscoda), West
Br. Big Cr., East Br. Big Cr., Sohn Cr., Beaver Cr., Wolf Cr.,
Loud Cr., Perry Cr., Comins Cr., Glennie Cr., Nine Mile Cr.,
and Blockhouse Cr.
The river corridor offers
a great variety of scenic values, from extensive forested
wetland areas and grassy marshes to upland plains and high
sandy bluffs. Some 18 miles of the South Branch flows through
the 5,000 acre George Mason River Retreat, a specially designated
and managed area designed to ensure solitude for the river
user. A National Forest Scenic Byway follows parts of the
lower Au Sable River. The mainstream and the South Branch
are both extremely popular canoeing streams, with numerous
liveries and other facilities readily available. The watershed,
with its myriad of streams as the focal point, offers virtually
every type of outdoor recreational activity of interest in
Michigan, such as hunting, hiking, skiing, camping, snowmobiling,
and nature study. Furthermore, the Au Sable is a world famous
brook and brown trout stream, with many sections designated
as Blue-Ribbon Trout Streams. The "Holy Waters" on the mainstream
is held in reverence by trout fishers from around the globe.
Trout unlimited, a worldwide conservation organization, was
born on the banks of the Au Sable. The lower section of the
mainstream below Foote Dam supports excellent salmon and steelhead
runs, and other sections of the river provide trophy walleye
and smallmouth bass fishing. In addition to supporting the
full complement of northern Michigan wildlife, the Au Sable
River area is also home to the world's only breeding population
of the endangered Kirtland's Warbler.
|
|
| Betsie
River |
Benzie
and Manistee |
From
the Grass Lake Dam in T25N, R14W, Sec. 2 to the inlet of Betsie
Lake in T25N, R16W, Sec. 35 |
50
|
1995
|
R
|
S, R,
F |
The
Betsie is a designated State Natural River. The upper sections
flow through low, rolling forested hills and plains, while the
lower corridor includes high forested ridges. The entire mainstream
is canoeable, with a moderate to fast current. Canoe rentals
and private camping are available on the river, with ski resorts
and snowmobile trails nearby. The Betsie also is an excellent
steelhead river, with very good salmon runs and fair brown trout
fishing, to which the public has good access.
The state of Michigan considers
the following tributaries vital to the protection of the mainstem.
These include the Little Betsie River and Dair Cr.
|
|
| Black
River |
Otsego |
Sturgis
Creek to source |
0
|
1982
|
|
R |
Located
in northern upper peninsula and has a well forested watershed,
marginally canoeable. Under study by the state for inclusion
in State Natural Rivers System. |
|
| Black
River |
Gogebic |
Mouth
to Black River dam |
33
|
1982
|
|
S, R,
G |
An essentially
primitive, scenic stream with several access points above U.S.
2. Many rapids and falls downstream of U.S. 2. Flow is variable,
low in summer. Seasonal recreational use. Watershed is mostly
wooded and undeveloped.
THE SEGMENT FROM THE OTTAWA
NATIONAL FOREST BOUNDARY TO LAKE SUPERIOR WAS ADDED AS A COMPONENT
OF THE NATIONAL WILD AND SCENIC rivers SYSTEM ON 3/3/92.
|
|
| Boardman
River |
Grand
Traverse and Kalaska |
From
the forks in T26n, RO9W, Sec. 4 downstream to the North boundary
of Grand Traverse County property in T27N, R11W, Sec.15 |
21
|
1995
|
S, R
|
S, R,
F |
The
Boardman is a designated State Natural River. The upper portion
flows through public lands, which offer a forested river valley
consisting of a variety of forest types and topographic features
in the fastest growing area of the state. The entire length
of the mainstream is good for canoeing and the surrounding public
lands provide facilities for camping, hiking, horseback riding,
snowmobiling and cross-country skiing. Furthermore, much of
the mainstream and the North and South branches are classified
as Blue-Ribbon Trout Streams, offering both brook and brown
trout.
The state of Michigan considers
the following tributaries vital to the protection of the mainstem.
These include the North Branch, the South Branch, Beitner
Cr., Jaxson Cr., Swainston Cr., Jackson Cr., East Cr., Parker
Cr., Bancroft Cr., Carpenter Cr., Twenty-Two Cr., Taylor Cr.,
Crofton Cr., and Failing Cr.
|
|
| Brule |
|
The
33-mile segment from Brule Lake in the northeast corner of Section
15, Township 41 North, Range 13 East, to the National Forest
boundary at the southeast quarter Section 13, Township 41 North,
Range 17 East. |
0
|
1982/ 1995
|
|
|
This
river is under Congressional study for designation in the Wild
and Scenic River System. It is currently under the full protection
of the the Wild and Scenic Rivers Act pursuant to Section 7
(b) of the Act. |
|
| Brule
River |
Iron |
From
backwaters of Brule Island dam to Brule Lake |
44
|
1982
|
|
R, F |
Flows
on boundary of Michigan and Wisconsin. Good to excellent canoeing
and fishing. Watershed is primarily forested. Good water quality. |
WI
|
| Brule
River |
Iron |
Brule
Lake to Forest boundary |
10
|
1982/ 1993
|
R
|
R, F,
H |
Excellent
brown trout fishery. Provides fine recreational canoe route
during most of year. |
WI
|
| Cass
River |
Saginaw,
Tuscola |
Saginaw
River to Frankenmuth (21 river miles); Frankenmuth to Vassar
(9 river miles); Vassar to Caro (13 river miles); Caro to source
(22 river miles) |
65
|
1982
|
|
R, G |
A central
Michigan river rising in the thumb area. A slow moving stream
flowing through a heavily farmed portion of the state offering
fair to good fishing. River banks are predominantly wooded.
Offers an easy canoe trip. Proposed for study for the State
Natural Rivers System. Also flows through a considerable amount
of state game area and Sanilac Petroglyphs archeologic site. |
|
| Cass
River, North Branch |
Sanilac |
Within
Sanilac state game area |
22
|
1982
|
|
H |
A small
tributary to the Cass River flowing through a predominantly
farmed area. Indian petroglyphs in several locations. |
|
| Chippewa
River |
Midland,
Isabella, Mecosta |
Mouth
to Mt. Pleasant dam (46 river miles); Mt. Pleasant to Barryton
(19 river miles); Barryton to source (24 river miles) |
89
|
1982
|
|
R |
Flows
through central Michigan farm country and forest land. A good
canoe trail with fair warm water fishing. Crosses Isabella Indian
Reservation surrounding Mt. Pleasant. |
|
| Clinton
River |
Macomb,
Oakland |
Lake
Orion to mouth at Lake St. Clair |
44
|
1982
|
|
R, F,
H, C |
A generally
slow moving southeastern Michigan stream with fair to good fishing.
Canoeing good and receives heavy use. Flows through an area
of high urban development although has fairly well wooded banks.
Located in Detroit MSA. |
|
| Crystal
River |
Leelanau |
Entire
segment within Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore |
3
|
1993
|
R
|
S, R,
G, W, O |
Sinuous
river channel following beach ridges. Large wetlands associated
with interdunal wetlands. Remnant beaches contain rich diversity
of species. Popular canoeing stream. |
|
| Driggs
River |
Schoolcraft |
Mouth
to source |
25
|
1982
|
|
S |
A central
upper peninsula river located mostly within boundary of Seney
National Wildlife Refuge. A scenic stream with almost no cultural
intrusion. Floating and fishing limited. |
|
| Escanaba
River, East Branch |
Marquette,
Dickinson |
From
1 mile above Gwinn to source |
25
|
1982
|
|
R |
A small
stream flowing through western upper peninsula wild country.
Watershed generally forested with some farming. A short segment
of this river is located on K.I. Sawyer A.F.B. |
|
| Escanaba
River, West Branch |
Marquette,
Dickinson |
From
confluence with Escanaba to source |
34
|
1982
|
|
R |
A good
floating and fishing stream located in western upper peninsula
wild country. Small in the upper reaches. |
|
| Fence
River, Including W. Br. |
Iron |
From
Michigamme Resevoir to Neligan dam 2 miles south of Baraga-Iron
County line |
0
|
1982
|
|
R, F |
Outstanding fishing opportunity...flows through western upper
peninsula forest lands with a limited amount of farming in watershed.
Floating opportunity good with somewhat limited use. Under study
by the state for inclusion in state Natural Rivers System. |
|
| Flat
River |
Montcalm,
Ionia, and Kent |
From
the M-46/M-66 Bridge in T12N, R07W, Sec.10 in Montcalm County,
downstream to the Lowell city limits |
70
|
1995
|
R
|
S, R,
F, H |
The
Flat is included in Michigan's list of state Designated Natural
Rivers. Due to its location within a agricultural area with
well wooded banks, pastoral settings and clear water, it is
generally considered one of the state's most scenic streams.
The river receives considerable canoe use; a private ranch in
the area offers canoe rentals, horseback riding and camping.
In addition, state game areas and county parks offer numerous
day use activities. Historically, the river is home to Native
American trading sites. It also boasts to having two of Michigan's
three remaining original covered bridges, both of which are
listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
The state of Michigan considers
the following tributaries vital to the protection of the mainstem.
These include Dickerson Cr., Wabasis Cr., Coopers Cr., Clear
Cr. and the West Branch.
|
|
| Flint
River |
Saginaw,
Genesee, Lapeer |
Mouth
at Saginaw River |
71
|
1982
|
|
R, F |
A medium
sized central Michigan river with a fair amount of recreation
use above city of Flint. Fair fishing and good canoeing in upper
one-half. Watershed mainly agriculture. Has mostly wooded banks.
Some high banks in place. Flows through Flint SMSA. |
|
| Ford
River |
Delta,
Dickinson, Marquette |
Gaging
Station at RM 10 to source |
89
|
1982
|
|
R |
A mostly
primitive western upper peninsula stream. Good fishing and outstanding
canoeing. Some farming in watershed. |
|
| Ford
River, North Branch |
Dickinson |
Mouth
to source |
29
|
1982
|
|
S, R |
A narrow
stream in a primarily forested watershed with little development.
Good fishing and limited canoeing. |
|
| Fox
River |
Alger,
Luce, and Schoolcraft |
From
its source above Casey Lake at T48N, R14W, Sec.21, to the confluence
with the East Branch of the Fox River at T45N, R13W, Sec.25 |
35
|
1995
|
S
|
S, R,
F, O |
The
Fox is a Designated State Natural River. It has a largely undeveloped
watershed, heavily forested borders and a large marsh through
"Spreads" areas both below Seney on the mainstream and between
M-77 an M-28 on the East Branch. The Fox River Hiking Trail
runs parallel to the river, while campgrounds and the Seney
National Wildlife Refuge are nearby. In addition, it is one
of Michigan's Blue Ribbon Trout Streams and is also a top quality
brook trout stream. Interestingly enough, the Fox is the river
that Ernest Hemingway was actually writing about in his story
"The Big Two-Hearted River."
The state of Michigan considers
the following tributaries vital to the protection of the mainstream.
These include Casey Cr., West Branch, Spring Ponds, Little
Fox and Hudson Cr.
|
|
| Fox
River, East Branch |
Schoolcraft |
Mouth
to source |
30
|
1982
|
|
S, R |
A central
upper peninsula stream flowing in a heavily forested area. Some
cultural intrusions. Good fishing. |
|
| Fox
River, East Branch |
Schoolcraft |
Mouth
to source |
36
|
1995
|
S
|
S, R |
A state
designated Natural River, this central upper peninsula stream
flows into a heavily forested area. Some cultural intrusions.
Good fishing.
The state of Michigan considers
the following tributaries vital to the protection of the mainstem:
Clear Cr., Camp Seven Cr., Cold Cr., Deer Cr., and Bev. Cr.
|
|
| Grand
River |
Ottawa,
Kent, Ionia, Clinton, Eaton, Ingham, Jackson |
Eastmanville to Sec 13, T6N, R12-13W (18 rm); Hwy 131 to Maple
Rd. to Weber dam (50 rm); Portland dam to Clinton-Eaton Co.
line to Lansing dam (39 rm); Moores Park to Eaton Rapids (18
rm); Willow Cr. to Portage River (29 rm); Hague Rd. to Culver
Rd. (22) |
176
|
1982
|
|
S, R,
G, H, C |
A long
river comprising Michigan's largest watershed. Many access points.
A generally slow moving stream with few rapids and dams. The
stream offers excellent recreational opportunities. Good canoeing
and fishing. Flows through lower Michigan farmland, but has
mostly wooded banks. Flows through Jackson, Lansing, and Grand
Rapids SMSA's. The ledges at Grand Ledge are one of the few
significant rock outcroppings in lower Michigan. Many parks
along river. Proposed by the state for study for State Natural
Rivers System. Some historic and cultural value. |
|
| Huron
River |
Livingston
and Washtenaw |
From
the outfall of Kent Lake Dam in T01N, R06E, Sec. 01, Livingston
County, downstream to the East boundary of T02S, R05E, Sec.
12, Washtenaw County |
28
|
1995
|
R
|
S, R,
F |
The
Huron is one of Michigan's Designated State Natural Rivers.
Much of the river frontage is publicly owned; however, there
is little development and a wooded corridor offers river users
outstanding scenery and a sense of remoteness uncommon to this
highly populated area of southeast Michigan. The Huron receives
moderate canoe and kayak use, and offers the only "rapids" in
southeast Michigan. Island Lake State Recreation Area and Huron-Clinton
Metroparks offer limited rustic group camping, as well as numerous
day-use activities along the river, such as, hiking, bicycling,
nature study, picnicking and golf. The river also offers quality
smallmouth bass fishing and is managed as catch and release
trophy fishing in certain sections.
The state of Michigan considers
the following tributaries vital to the protection of the mainstem:
Davis Cr., Arms Cr., and Mill Cr.
|
|
| Huron
River |
Oakland,
Livingston, Washtenaw, Wayne |
Mouth
to DT & I RR (12 river miles); DT & I RR to Ford dam
(25 rm); Barton dam to Porter dam (15 rm); Porter dam to Kent
dam (18 rm); Kent dam to Milford dam (9 rm); Wixom dam to source
(11 rm) |
90
|
1982
|
|
R, F,
H |
An all
around good river flowing through a heavily urbanized area in
southeast Michigan. Recieves considerable recreation, mainly
fishing and floating with swimming in the upper reaches. A pleasant
slow moving stream flowing through farmland, several cold water
lakes, several metro-parks, the City of Ann Arbor and the fringe
of Detroit SMSA. A designated State Natural River. |
|
| Huron
River, Including E. Br. and Little E. Br. |
Baraga |
Lake
Superior to Lake Phillips |
26
|
1982
|
|
S, G |
A small
but almost completely unspoiled stream. Watershed is 99 percent
wooded. Very little human disturbance. Fishing opportunity is
very good. Canoeing opportunity poor. Proposed for study by
state for its Natural Rivers System. |
|
| Jordan
River |
Antrim,
Charlevoix |
East
Jordan to SE of O'Brian Pond |
33
|
1982
|
|
S, R |
Very
scenic with some fast water. A small river flowing through heavily
wooded primitive watershed. Good canoeing and fishing. A designated
State Natural River. |
|
| Jordan
River |
Charlevoix
and Antrim |
From
its source in T31n, R05W, Sec.22, to Rogers Bridge in T32N,
R07W, Sec. 35 |
30
|
1995
|
S
|
S, R,
F |
The
Jordan is one of Michigan's Designated State Natural Rivers.
Its upper valley is noted for its wide, scenic, undisturbed
corridor. Moreover, the Jordan River Valley is a specially managed
scenic area with one of the most popular scenic forest drives
in the state following the Upper Jordan River. In addition,
the upper river valley has excellent fishing, hiking, hunting
and skiing opportunities, with the lower section offering canoeable
waters. A portion of the Polar-Equator Hiking Trail follows
the river for a few miles and the scenic Jordan River Pathway
weaves along and across the river. Furthermore, the upper section
of the Jordan offers outstanding brook trout, while the lower
part of the river offers seasonal steelhead and brown trout
fishing. Not surprisingly, the river is considered a Designated
Blue-Ribbon Trout Stream.
The state of Michigan considers
the following tributaries flowing into the mainstem vital
to the protection of the Jordan: Landslide Cr., Cascade Cr.
, Stevens Cr., Green River, Section 7 Cr., Tutstone Cr., Cokirs
Cr., Scotts Cr., Suttons Cr., Mill Cr., Martin Cr., Lilak
Cr., Gook Cr., Webster Cr., Severance Cr., and Bartholomew
Cr.
|
|
| Kalamazoo
(Lower) River |
Allegan |
From
Calkins Bridge Dam in T.O2N., R.14W., Sec.10 downstream to the
Hacklander Landing in T.O3N, R.16W., Sec.14 |
22
|
1995
|
S
|
S, F,
W, O |
The
Kalamazoo is part of Michigan's designated State Natural River
system. The majority of the designated section runs through
the Allegan State Game Area. The river corridor there is heavily
forested with little development due to the remoteness of its
location in southwestern Michigan. Large holdings of public
land along the river contain campgrounds, hiking and cross-country
ski trails. The river can be traveled by boat from Lake Michigan
upstream to the Allegan Dam. Futhermore, the river is a productive
fishery resource. Walleye and other warm-water fisheries are
found along the Kalamazoo and it also has significant fall and
spring runs of steelhead, sucker and salmon. Many wildlife viewing,
hunting and trapping opportunities exist along the river within
the Allegan Game Area and the Pottowottami Marsh. The game area
is also intensively managed for Canadian geese and wild turkey
and contains observation areas for viewing wildlife.
The state of Michigan considers
the following tributaries vital to the protection of the mainstem.
These include Rabbit River, Bear Creek, Sand Creek, Swan Creek,
and Mann Creek.
|
|
| Kalamazoo
River |
Allegan,
Calhoun, Kalamazoo |
Saugatuck
to Allegan dam (23 river miles); Allegan dam to Marshall (112
river miles) |
135
|
1982
|
|
R |
A long
southern Michigan stream with several dams and portages. Flows
through heavily farmed and hardwood forest areas. Banks generally
wooded. A good all around recreational stream receiving considerable
floating and fishing use. Contains several city and county parks.
Flows through city of Battle Creek and Kalamazoo SMSA. Under
study by the state for State Natural Rivers System. |
|
| Little
Manistee |
|
The
segment within the Huron-Manistee National Forest. |
0
|
1982
|
|
|
This
river is under Congressional study for designation to the Wild
and Scenic River System. It is currently under the full protection
of the Wild and Scenic Rivers Act pursuant to Section 7 (b)
of the Act. |
|
| Little
Manistee River |
Lake,
Mason, Manistee |
From
the Highway 37 crossing near Old Grebe Campground in Section
3, T.19 N., R.13 W. to backwater of State fish weir in T.21
N., R.16 W. |
51
|
1993
|
S
|
R, F |
One
of best cold water fisheries. Provides consistent supply of
unusually high quality water. Opportunities for fly fishing
and canoeing. |
|
| Little
Muskegon River |
Mecosta |
Croton
Dam Impoundment to Morley Impoundment |
25
|
1982
|
|
S, R |
A small
tributary of Muskegon River. Flows through central Michigan
forest and farm lands. Corridor generally wooded. Good fishing
and canoeing. Located in part on Huron-Manistee National Forest. |
|
| Little
Muskegon River |
Mecosta,
Montcalm, Newaygo |
Morley
Dam in T.13 N., R.10 W. to Croton Dam Pond in T.12 N., R.11
W. |
24
|
1982/ 1993
|
S
|
S |
Many
high, steep forest covered banks along a narrow, tortuous river
with overhanging trees. |
|
| Manistique
River |
Luce,
Schoolcraft |
From
Paper Company flowage at Manistique to Manistique Lake |
64
|
1982
|
|
S, R |
A good
recreational river with good fishing and floating. High percentage
of state owned land. Generally undisturbed and forested watershed.
Good fishing and outstanding floating. |
|
| Manistique
River, West Branch |
Schoolcraft |
From
confluence with Manistique River to source |
45
|
1982
|
|
S, R,
G |
River
corridor largely undeveloped. Outstanding character of this
river is the many sand bars in lower portion. Flows through
central upper peninsula wild country near Seney National Wildlife
Refuge. Empties into Lake Michigan near town of Manistique.
Mouth has scenic sand beaches. |
|
| Menominee
River |
Menominee,
Dickinson |
Backwaters
of Grand Rapids Dam to dam at White Rapids |
26
|
1982
|
|
R |
Flows
on boundary between Wisconsin and Michigan. A broad river with
good flow thtough heavily forested country. Good fishing and
canoeing. Several portages. |
WI
|
| Miners
River |
Alger |
County
Road H-58 to mouth at Lake Superior (within Pictured Rocks National
Lakeshore) |
9
|
1993
|
S
|
S, G,
F |
Forms
Miners Falls and Lake where drops 30 feet into broad valley.
Flows over Ordovician Au Train formation and through a sandstone
gorge. |
|
| Montreal
River |
Keweenaw |
Entire
stream |
27
|
1982
|
|
S |
An essentially
primitive stream with very minimal human encroachment. Overall
recreational opportunity is limited. Falls near mouth. |
|
| Mosquito
River |
Alger |
Entire
segment within Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, from mouth
at Lake Superior to Section 17, T48N, R17W |
6
|
1993
|
W
|
S, R,
G, F |
Mosquito
Falls, a branch of river, cascades over wall of former glacial
meltwater channel. Excellent water quality and minimal cultural
development. Popular trout fishery and hiking destination. |
|
| Muskegon
River |
Newago |
Croton
dam to Muskegon-Newago County Line |
31
|
1982
|
|
S, R |
A western
lower peninsula stream flowing through sand hill country into
Lake Michigan. Many high, forested banks. Excellent canoeing
stream with good flow. Close to Grand Rapids SMSA. Under study
by the state for State Natural Rivers System. |
|
| Muskegon
River |
Muskegon,
Newago, Mecosta, Osceola |
U.S.
31 to SR 213 (13 river miles); Hardy dam to Rogers dam (30 rm);
Penn Central RR to Evart (25 rm); Evart to Hoffmeyer drain (8
rm); Hoffmeyer drain to SR 61 (17 rm) |
93
|
1982
|
|
S, R,
F |
An exceptional
central Michigan stream with good to excellent recreation values.
Flows through generally wooded corridor with a 50 percent farmed
watershed. Clear water with a good current provides excellent
canoeing. Very good trout and salmon fishing. Depth in lower
reaches supports power boating. Under study by the state for
the State Natural Rivers System. |
|
| Muskegon
River |
Newaygo |
Croton
Dam in T.12 N., R.11 W. to city of Newaygo in T.12 N., R.12
W. |
12
|
1982/ 1993
|
R
|
S, H |
Wide
meandering river with high-steep-forested banks. Contains archaeological
sites that provide unique record of prehistory Michigan. |
|
| Muskegon
River |
Clare,
Missaukee, Roscommon |
SR 61
in Clare County to 40 Reedsburg dam |
71
|
1982
|
|
S, R |
A central
lower peninsula stream with little development and good water
quality. River meanders through terrain varying from marsh to
heavily forested areas with high sand and gravel banks. |
|
| Net
River, Including W. Br. |
Iron,
Baraga |
From
confluence with Paint River to source |
33
|
1982
|
|
S |
A western
upper peninsula river with generally good fishing and floating
opportunity. Watershed is primarily forested with some farming. |
|
| Ocqueoc
River |
Presque
Isle |
Mouth
at Lake Huron to Sportsman dam |
32
|
1982
|
|
S, F |
Located
in northern lower peninsula. Flows through heavily forested
watershed. Country varies from swamp to hilly. A small stream
with good fishing. Some cultural intrusion. Falls at Ocqueoc. |
|
| Ontonagon |
|
The
West Branch from the Michigan State Highway 28 crossing to Cascade
Falls; the South Branch from the confluence of the Cisco Branch
and Ten Mile Creek to the confluence with West Branch Ontonagon. |
0
|
1982/ 1995
|
|
|
This
river is under Congressional study for designation to the Wild
and Scenic River System. It is currently under the protection
of the Wild and Scenic Rivers Act pursuant to Section 7 (b)
of the Act. |
|
| Ontonagon
River |
Ontonagon |
Mouth
to confluence with E. and Middle Br. |
25
|
1982
|
|
S, R,
G, F |
Main
stem of the Ontonagon River system. Flows through western upper
peninsula wild country. Watershed heavily forested with very
little development. Excellent floating and fishing. Located
in a deeply incised valley in an area of high hills with land
flattening out near mouth. Many high gravel banks. Proposed
by state for study for inclusion in State Natural Rivers System. |
|
| Ontonagon
River, East Branch |
Ontonagon,
Houghton, Iron |
Confluence
with main stem to source |
51
|
1982
|
|
S, R,
F |
A tributary
to Ontonagon. Good fishing and floating. Flows in part through
land owned by the U.S. Forest Service. Good to excellent water
quality. Receives moderate recreational use.
THE SEGMENT FROM ITS ORIGIN
TO THE OTTAWA NATIONAL FOREST BOUNDARY WAS ADDED AS A COMPONENT
OF THE NATIONAL WILD AND SCENIC rivers SYSTEM ON 3/3/92.
|
|
| Ontonagon
River, Middle Branch |
Ontonagon |
Confluence
with E. Br. to source at Crooked lake |
58
|
1982
|
|
S, R,
F |
A tributary
to Ontonagon River. Flows through largely primitive watershed.
Good fishing and can be canoed (difficult at times). Flows through
very scenic valley with no cultural intrusions in lower 25 miles.
THE SEGMENT FROM ITS ORIGIN
TO THE NORTHERN BOUNDARY OF THE OTTAWA NATIONAL FOREST WAS
ADDED AS A COMPONENT OF THE NATIONAL WILD AND SCENIC rivers
SYSTEM ON 3/3/92.
|
|
| Ontonagon
River, South Branch |
Ontonagon |
Confluence
with West Br. to Cisco Lake (including the Cisco Branch) |
60
|
1982
|
|
S, R |
Part
of the Ontonagon system. Essentially primitive with small amount
of farming. Flows in part in Ottawa National Forest. Good recreational
opportunity.
THE SEGMENT FROM ITS ORIGIN
AT CISCO LAKE DAM TO ITS CONFLUENCE WITH TEN-MILE CREEK SOUTH
OF EWEN WAS ADDED AS A COMPONENT OF THE NATIONAL WILD AND
SCENIC rivers SYSTEM ON 3/3/92.
|
|
| Ontonagon
River, South Branch |
Gogebic,
Ontonagon |
The
South Branch from the confluence of the Cisco Branch and Tenmile
Creek to the confluence with the West Branch Ontonagon |
20
|
1982/ 1993
|
|
S, R,
F |
Scenic
attraction especially when river is running full usually during
spring breakup and in late fall. Native brook trout fishing
. Popular for canoeing. |
|
| Ontonagon
River, West Branch |
Ontonagon |
Victoria
Reservoir Spillway to SR 28 east of Bergland |
27
|
1982
|
|
S |
Part
of Ontonagon River system. Excellent canoeing and good fishing
opportunity. Flows through western upper peninsula wild country
with minimal cultural intrusions.
THE SEGMENT FROM ITS CONFLUENCE
WITH CASCADE FALLS TO VICTORIA RESERVOIR WAS ADDED AS A COMPONENT
OF THE NATIONAL WILD AND SCENIC rivers SYSTEM ON 3/3/92.
|
|
| Ontonagon
River, West Branch |
Ontonagon |
Michigan
Highway 28 to confluence with Cascade Falls |
12
|
1982/ 1993
|
R
|
S, R |
View
of Trap Hills to north. Flows through gorge-like landscape. |
|
| Paint |
|
Main
stem-Eastern boundary of Ottawa National Forest to Crystal Falls;
confluence of Net River with East and West branches to its confluence
with the Paint River; East Branch of Net River from source to
confluence; West Branch from source to confluence. |
0
|
1982/ 1995
|
|
|
This
river is under Congressional study for designation to the Wild
and Scenic Rivers System. It is currently under protection of
the Wild and Scenic Rivers Act pursuant to Section 7 (b) of
the Act. |
|
| Paint
River, Including N. Br. |
Iron |
Backwaters
of Crystal Falls Reservoir to Mallard Lake |
32
|
1982
|
|
R, F |
A western
upper peninsula stream flowing through essentially primitive
watershed. Outstanding fishing and good canoeing opportunity.
Proposed by the state for study for inclusion in State Natural
Rivers System. |
|
| Paint
River, South Branch |
Iron,
Gogebic |
Confluence
with N. Br. to Paint River Springs |
28
|
1982
|
|
R, F |
Tributary
of Paint River. Flows through western upper peninsula forest
lands with few cultural intrusions. Outstanding fishing. Good
floating potential. |
|
| Paw
Paw and N. Br. |
Van
Buren |
2 miles
downstream of Berrien County line to SR 43 |
38
|
1982
|
|
S, R,
C |
Located
in southern Michigan and considered outstanding. Good fishing
and excellent canoeing. Flows through a well wooded corridor
with minimum cultural development. Some agriculture provides
outstanding views of surrounding countryside. Under study by
the state for the State Natural Rivers System. |
|
| Paw
Paw River |
Berrien |
Mouth
to dam at Watervliet |
23
|
1982
|
|
S, R |
An outstanding
southern Michigan river flowing through generally forested corridor
with a heavily farmed watershed. Many long, scenic stretches
with little development. A good canoeing stream receiving much
fishing use. Under study by the state for State Natural Rivers
System. |
|
| Pentwater
River |
Oceana |
Entire
river both branches |
37
|
1982
|
|
S, R |
A small
stream flowing into Lake Michigan through mainly forested land
with a minimal amount of farming. Offers generally good canoeing
and some boating in lower reaches. A cold water stream with
fishing a major use. |
|
| Pere
Marquette River |
Mason,
Lake, Newaygo, and Oceana |
From
the confluence of the Middle Branch and the Little South Branch(The
Forks), T17N, R13W, Sec. 22, to the US-31 highway bridge, including
all channels |
66
|
1995
|
S
|
S, R,
F, O |
Although
this entire segment is on the National Wild and Scenic River
System, it is listed here because it is also a State Designated
Natural River. The state of Michigan considers the following
tributaries vital to the protection of the mainstem: Swan Cr.,
Weldon Cr., Big South Branch, Cedar Cr., Ruby Cr., Carr Cr.,
Sweetwater Cr., Kinney Cr., Danaher Cr., Baldwin Cr., North
B. Cole Cr., South B. Cole Cr., Bray Cr., Sandborn Cr., Leverntz
Cr., Middle Branch, Blood Cr., Little South Branch, McDuffee
Cr., and Pease Cr.
The entire watershed contains
large holdings of state and national forest lands. River corridors
provide a variety of vegetation and topography, from high
sand hills to braided channels flowing through extensive marshlands.
The mainstream was one of the first rivers in the nation designated
for study under the 1968 Federal Wild and Scenic Rivers Act
and is now designated as a scenic river. The Pere Marquette
is an excellent canoeing stream for much of its length; the
mainstream offers many opportunities for extended canoe trips
and the "Spreads" through Nelan's Marsh provides an opportunity
for wildlife viewing in a remote setting. In addition, the
Big South Branch is considered a good canoeing stream and
the rest of the mainstream offers hiking, fishing, hunting,
bird watching, camping, snowmobiling, and cross-country skiing
opportunities. Also, a section of the North Country Trail
crosses the mainstream and many of its tributaries. Although
the Pere Marquette is considered a world famous steelhead
and salmon river, the upper mainstream and tributaries also
offer fine brook, brown, and rainbow trout fishing; warmwater
species of fish are predominant in the river from Nelan's
Marsh downstream. Historically the river is significant due
to evidence of early trapper, trader, French Jesuit and Native
American occupation. The area was also part of the Michigan
White Pine Lumbering era and many of the old "High Rollways"
are still visible from the river.
|
|
| Pere
Marquette River, Baldwin River |
Mason,
Lake, Newaygo, and Oceana |
From
widewaters in T19N, R12W, Sec. 32 to the mainstream at T17N,
R13W, Sec. 16 |
8
|
1995
|
S
|
S, R,
F |
See
Pere Marquette River comments. |
|
| Pere
Marquette River, Big South Branch |
Mason,
Lake, Newaygo, and Oceana |
From
Beaver Creek in T15N, R14W, Sec. 11 to the mainstream at T18N,
R16W, Sec. 22. |
42
|
1995
|
S
|
S, R,
F |
See
Pere Marquette River comments. |
|
| Pere
Marquette River, Little South Branch |
Mason,
Lake, Newaygo, and Oceana |
From
FS Road 5309 in T15N, R12W, Sec. 9 to The Forks at T17N, R13W,
Sec. 22 |
10
|
1995
|
S
|
S, R,
F |
See
Pere Marquette River comments. |
|
| Pere
Marquette River, Middle Branch |
Mason,
Lake, Newaygo, and Oceana |
From
Bonney Road in T17N, R11W, Sec. 7 to The Forks at T17n, R13W,
Sec. 22 |
12
|
1995
|
S
|
S, R,
F |
See
Pere Marquette River comments. |
|
| Pigeon
River |
Cheboygan |
Mullet
Lake to source |
40
|
1982
|
|
S, R,
W |
A high
quality stream suited for most types of river recreation. Good
water quality and flow. Outstanding scenery makes a good float
trip. Flows through outstanding Pigeon River State Forest which
supports only large elk population in state. |
|
| Pigeon
River |
Otsego
and Cheboygan |
From
its headwaters in Osego County to Pigeon River Road Bridge in
T35N, R02W, Sec.16 |
42
|
1995
|
S
|
S, R,
F, W |
The
Pigeon is one of Michigan's State Designated Natural Rivers.
The largely undisturbed river corridor runs through Pigeon River
Country State Forest which offers camping, hiking, and other
recreational pursuits. A section of the Michigan Shore-to-Shore
equestrian trail crosses the river. Furthermore, the lower part
of the river offers fast water and riffles over bedrock for
canoeists. The Pigeon is a Blue Ribbon Trout Stream for most
of its length and contains both blue and brown members of that
species. The river is also home to the largest elk herd east
of the Mississippi River. |
|
| Platte
River |
Benzie |
Lake
Ann to mouth |
16
|
1982
|
|
S, R,
F |
A small
northern stream heavily used for trout and salmon fishing. A
slow stream flowing through generally forested land with some
farming. Medium canoeing use. Located in highly scenic northwestern
Michigan sand dune area. |
|
| Platte
R | |
