Little Manistee River in Michigan

by  guest-paddler

A self-supported trip created by guest-paddler

Trip Overview

Paddled the stretch of the Little Manistee from 9 Mile to 6 Mile bridge.

There are many logjams and deadfalls blocking the river. The water is at 5 mph and you must be an expert in a small flat Boat to attempt this.
You will turn over and get wet. You may get hurt.
We had to portage 10 times. I would call the trip scary at times and not fun at all.

2 locals told us that this stretch is Never Never cleared. If there is a 3' cut through the trees it may be almost impossible to enter at a safe angle. I was rolled under a tree and the group after us was rolled also. They lost a paddle and one girl was hyperventilating for 20 minutes.

If you still want to do this make sure you have a paddle leash tie every thing into your boat, a bilge pump good shoes for portaging through mud and trees, all day to do it and a strong back.

Not fun. Hit the Pine River and have fun.

The river above 9 mile was fun.

Fees:

No permit needed.

Trip Details

  • Trip Duration: Day Trip
  • Sport/Activity: Kayaking, Canoeing
  • Skill Level: Advanced
  • Water Type: River/Creek (Up to Class II)

Trip Location