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Paddling Adventures in Michigan's Western Upper Peninsula

The Western Upper Peninsula is home to some of Michigan's most scenic paddling opportunities. From the crystal-clear lakes of Sylvania Wilderness to the winding rivers of the Ottawa National Forest, paddlers of all experience levels can find an adventure that fits their style. Whether you're planning a peaceful afternoon float, a wilderness canoe trip, or a day of kayak fishing, Two Rivers Motel & Cabins makes a convenient basecamp for exploring the region's waterways.

Why Paddle the Western U.P.?

The Western U.P. offers a unique paddling experience that combines remote wilderness, abundant wildlife, and uncrowded waterways. Many of the area's rivers and lakes are surrounded by public land, creating opportunities to experience the Northwoods much as they appeared generations ago.

Visitors can enjoy:

  • Scenic river floats

  • Quiet wilderness lakes

  • Canoe and kayak fishing

  • Wildlife viewing

  • Photography opportunities

  • Fall color paddling

  • Family-friendly outings

  • Advanced river adventures

Featured Paddling Desitinations

Sylvania Wilderness Canoe Area

One of the Midwest's premier paddling destinations, Sylvania Wilderness features dozens of interconnected lakes surrounded by old-growth forest. Clear water, quiet shorelines, and excellent wildlife viewing make this a favorite for families, photographers, and anyone seeking a peaceful day on the water.

👉 Read more about the Sylvania Wilderness Area

  • Best For:

    • ​Canoeing

    • Kayaking

    • Wildlife viewing

    • Photography

    • Beginner and intermediate paddlers

Sysco Chain of Lakes

The Cisco Chain offers miles of interconnected lakes along the Michigan-Wisconsin border. Paddlers can explore multiple lakes in a single day while enjoying excellent fishing, scenic shorelines, and plenty of opportunities to stop and explore.

  • Best For:

    • Recreational kayaking

    • Canoeing

    • Fishing

    • Full-day paddling trips

Bond Falls Flowage

While many visitors know Bond Falls, fewer discover the calm waters of Bond Falls Flowage. This area provides a relaxing paddling experience with beautiful scenery and excellent opportunities for wildlife viewing.

  • Best For:

    • Families

    • Beginner paddlers

    • Paddleboards

    • Sunset paddles

Featured Trips Near Two Rivers Motel & Cabins

The Western U.P. is home to numerous water trails that showcase the region's rivers, forests, and wilderness landscapes.

 

The following routes are part of the MI-TRALE Water Trails Program and offer additional kayaking and canoeing adventures throughout Michigan's Western Upper Peninsula.

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For current route information, launch locations, GPS coordinates, water conditions, and safety guidance, visit the MI-TRALE Water Trails Program. 

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Route information below is summarized from MI-TRALE resources for trip-planning purposes. Access points, mileage, classifications, and conditions may change over time.

Big Iron River

Forest Road 360 to Bonanza Falls

Max Difficulty

Class II+

Length

17 miles

Additional Information

To find the put-in on Forest Road 360, drive on State Highway M-64 for 5.5 miles south from L.P. Walsh Road. Take out above Bonanza Falls, just off State Highway M-64, south of Silver City

Put in GPS

46.678322, -89.651299

Take out GPS

46.817613, -89.570169

Ontonagon River - Cisco Branch

Old Gravel Pit to Forest Road 6930 Bridge

Max Difficulty

Class III

Length

6 miles

Additional Information

Put in at an old gravel pit off Forest Road 527 that runs roughly parallel to the Cisco Branch. Take out at the bridge on the Matchwood Tower Road / Forest Road 6930

Put in GPS

46.370944, -89.413395

Take out GPS

46.409415, -89.343563

Firesteel River

Wilderness Drive to Lakeshore Drive

Max Difficulty

Class II

Length

13.5 miles

Additional Information

Put in at the bridge on Wilderness Drive. Take out at the Lakeshore Drive Bridge, just upstream from Lake Superior

Put in GPS

46.872803, -89.104890

Take out GPS

46.933210, -89.194890

Ontonagon River - East Branch

Gardner Road to End of East Branch Road

Max Difficulty

Class I+

Length

5.5 miles

Additional Information

Put in at the bridge on Gardner Road. Take-out at the end of Each Branch Road

Put in GPS

46.658496, -89.046987

Take out GPS

46.687908, -89.072360

Find the Right Paddle for Your Adventure

Looking for great fall colors?

➡️ Big Iron River​

Want to get off the beaten path?

➡️ Firesteel River

Want a challenge?

➡️ Cisco Branch of the Ontonagon River

Paddling with the family?

➡️ Sturgeon River

A little bit of adventure?

➡️ Ontonagon River

Prefer calm lakes?

➡️ Sylvania Wilderness or Bond Falls Flowage

Before You Go

The Western Upper Peninsula offers incredible paddling opportunities, but conditions on rivers and lakes can change quickly. Taking a few simple precautions can help ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Safety Tips

  • Wear a U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket whenever kayaking, canoeing, or stand-up paddleboarding.

  • Check weather forecasts before launching and be prepared for changing conditions.

  • Verify river and lake conditions before your trip.

  • Bring drinking water, snacks, and a dry bag for important items.

  • Carry a charged cell phone whenever possible.

  • Dress appropriately for water temperatures, not just air temperatures.

Paddling Solo?

  • If you're paddling or fishing alone:

  • Always wear your life jacket.

  • Tell someone (could even be us!) where you're going.

  • Let them know your planned route.

  • Share your expected return time.

  • Schedule a check-in time after your trip.

Know Before You Go

  • Confirm access points and parking areas before leaving.

  • Plan transportation if your trip uses separate launch and take-out locations.

  • Paddle within your skill level.

  • Be especially cautious on rivers with rapids, changing water levels, or strong currents.

Additional Resources

Detailed route descriptions, launch locations, GPS coordinates, river classifications, and current trail information are available through these official resources:

👉 MI-TRALE Water Trails Program

👉 Sylvania Wilderness Recreation & Backcountry Camping Information (U.S. Forest Service)

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Please verify current conditions, access points, permits, regulations, and safety information before your trip.

Stay Near the Adventure

Two Rivers Motel & Cabins is centrally located near many of the Western U.P.'s most popular paddling destinations. After a day on the water, relax around the campfire, explore nearby waterfalls, or plan your next adventure.

Whether you're visiting for a weekend getaway or an extended U.P. vacation, Two Rivers provides a comfortable basecamp for exploring the region's rivers, lakes, forests, and trails.

Interactive Water Trails Map

Explore launch locations, take-out points, and water trail access points throughout Michigan's Western Upper Peninsula using the map below.

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This map includes:

Sylvania Wilderness access points​

Cisco Chain launch areas​

Bond Falls Flowage access​

Featured rivers trips as mentioned on the MI-TRALE Water Trails of Michigan webpage

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