If you’re looking for a peaceful paddle wrapped in pure Upper Peninsula beauty, the Au Train River is your hidden gem. Flowing gently through lush forests and winding wetlands before spilling into Lake Superior, this scenic river offers a laid-back kayaking experience perfect for all skill levels. With crystal-clear water, quiet surroundings, and wildlife around every bend, kayaking the Au Train River is less about adrenaline—and more about soaking in the wild, untouched beauty of Michigan’s northwoods.

Overview: Kayaking the Au Train River

History of the Au Train River

The name “Au Train” comes from French voyageurs and roughly translates to “at the train” or “by the train,” referring to the movement of goods and furs through the region during the fur trade era.

• Native American tribes used the river as a travel corridor and fishing resource long before European arrival
• French traders and early settlers later relied on the river for transporting goods inland from Lake Superior
• Today, it remains a recreational treasure near Munising, offering one of the most accessible and relaxing paddling experiences in the area

What the Paddle Is Like

The Au Train River is known for its slow current and gentle flow, making it ideal for beginners, families, and anyone looking for a relaxing float.

• Typical trips range from 2–4 hours, depending on launch points
• Surrounded by dense forest, wetlands, and open sky stretches
• Ends near the mouth where the river meets Lake Superior
• Frequent wildlife sightings: birds, turtles, fish, and occasionally deer

This is more of a float-and-enjoy paddle than a technical kayaking challenge, like a long, relaxing lazy river.

Key Landmarks & Highlights

• M-28 Bridge Launch Area – A popular starting point for many paddlers
• Au Train River Mouth – Where the river meets Lake Superior, offering a scenic finish
• Sandbars & Calm Stretches – Great for stopping, relaxing, or wading in shallow water
• Forest Corridors – Peaceful sections where the river narrows and feels completely secluded

Fun Facts

• The Au Train River is part of the Lake Superior watershed
• Its calm nature makes it one of the most beginner-friendly rivers in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula
• Water clarity is often excellent, allowing you to see fish below your kayak
• The river flows through areas rich in wetlands and biodiversity

Tips for the Best Experience

• ✔ Bring a dry bag for essentials
• ✔ Wear water shoes or sandals for easy entry/exit
• ✔ Use sunscreen—some sections have limited shade
• ✔ Watch for shallow areas where you may need to walk your kayak briefly
• ✔ Plan your take-out point ahead of time to avoid drifting too far

Kayak Rentals & Trip Planning

Near Munising, several outfitters offer rentals and shuttle services:

• Au Train River Canoe & Kayak Rentals
  • Kayaks, canoes, tubes
  • Shuttle service included
  • Flexible trip lengths
• Northwoods Canoe & Kayak Rentals
  • Guided recommendations for routes
  • Family-friendly options

Many services allow you to park at the end point and shuttle upstream, making logistics easy.

Camping Options

• Au Train Lake Campground
  • Close to the river with easy access
• Hiawatha National Forest Campgrounds
  • Rustic, scenic, and less crowded
• Backcountry Camping
  • Available in nearby Hiawatha National Forest

Lodging Options

Stay near Munising or Au Train:

• Lakeside cabins and cottages
• Rustic lodges and vacation rentals
• Hotels in Munising for easy access to Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore

Other Nearby Adventures

• Kayak the cliffs of Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore
• Bike Grand Island
• Explore waterfalls around Munising
• Relax on Lake Superior beaches

Final Takeaway

Kayaking the Au Train River is all about slowing down and reconnecting with nature. With its calm waters, scenic surroundings, and easy access, it’s the perfect complement to the more rugged adventures of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. Whether you’re a first-time paddler or just looking for a peaceful float, the Au Train River delivers a simple, beautiful experience that’s hard to beat.