Grand River in Michigan

Trip Overview

Afternoon paddle on the Grand River that went from Tompkins Rd. In Jackson County, to Baldwin Park in Onondaga. A very sunny Memorial Day with highs in the low 90's.

The launch at Tomkins Rd. is nice with a concrete ramp. Total trip time was about three hours. Water was about a foot lower then normal. Average water depth was about two to three feet. Very secluded part of the river, there is only about four to five houses along the way. This section of the river has many curves and downed trees that keep you very busy navigating. We had to portage twice because of logs. This part of the river could be very dangerous with high water and a strong current.

We definitely had a back woods feel to the trip. Spotted three herons, and numerous turtles of all sizes, along the way, which was nice for the middle of the day. Along the way as you're traveling north you cross into Ingham County.

We concluded our trip at Baldwin Park in Onondaga with a cookout. It's a beautiful park along the river with numerous grills, and a pavilion. The launch at the Park is old and somewhat rickety, so I land on the southern edge at the bottom of the hill (as do most people), with easy access in and out of the boat.

Overall very enjoyable.
If you want a wider section of river with no problems of downed trees I suggest the next part of the river. Start by putting in At Baldwin Park, and taking it down to Gale Rd. Landing in Ingham County. That trip is about 2 hours, a little more developed but you won't feel like your going thru an obstacle course

Accommodations:

Vault toilet.

Fees:

No fees

Directions:

Tomkins Rd. Landing is located in Northern Jackson county between Grand River Rd. and Barson.

Baldwin park is located in the village of Onondaga in Ingham County. It is Onondaga Rd. between Old Plank Rd. and Baseline Rd.