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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.

Ontonagon River - Middle Branch

Agate Falls to Military Hill Bridge

Max Difficulty

Class III

Length

29 miles

Additional Information

Much of this run is a designated Wild and Scenic River. The put-in is difficult, as you must negotiate a steep slope to get to the bottom of Agate Falls. Take out is easy using a 2-track road on the south side of the US Highway 45 (Military Hill) Bridge that takes you to the confluence of the Middle and East Branches of the Ontonagon River.

Put in GPS

46.481320, -89.090008

Take out GPS

46.699232, -89.158461

Ontonagon River - Middle Branch

Burned Dam to Interior Bridge

Max Difficulty

Class II

Length

6.5 miles

Additional Information

Put in at Burned Dam Campground. Take out on the right on the upstream side of Interior Bridge on Forest Road 5250.

Put in GPS

46.315569, -89.054473

Take out GPS

46.356519, -89.076672

Ontonagon River - Middle Branch

Watersmeet to Burned Dam

Max Difficulty

Class II

Length

10 miles

Additional Information

Put in at the bridge on US-45 in Watersmeet. Take out just upstream of Mex-i-min-e Falls, on the right

Put in GPS

46.274736, -89.176421

Take out GPS

46.312564, -89.053820

Ontonagon River - South Branch

Choate Rd to Ewen

Max Difficulty

Class II

Length

18 miles

Additional Information

Put in on Choate Road at Bluff Creek underpass. Take out at the State Highway M-28 bridge in Ewen

Put in GPS

46.418685, -89.240672

Take out GPS

46.534584, -89.276509

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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