I put in on the Huron River from the Spring Street site in Ypsilanti. It's less than a half mile to Ford Lake under a railroad bridge, a foot bridge to the long closed Ford Plant, and under I-94. The lake was formed 80 years ago by damming the Huron River, so it is several miles long. The first thing to notice on your right is the North Bay Park which has wildlife trails and numerous footbridges. You can enter it from the S. Huron St. Park and Ride but it has no boat access. The west end of Ford Lake has a golf course and considerable natural shoreline. The homes and condos are high above most of the lake and many of them are totally hidden by trees. Given the size (nearly a thousand acres) of the lake, surprisingly few pontoons or power boats are seen. Big Island is a popular spot in the middle of the lake on weekends and has trails and a small beach. Pack a lunch if you plan to paddle the full length to Ford Dam and back. There is one other launch at Ford Lake Park on the south side, but it requires fees or a membership.
Safety Notes
Stay clear of the Ford Dam itself.
The Huron River has a serious current to contend with during spring high water. The put-in is on the outside of a big bend which accentuates this.
Portage Notes
The lake ends at the Ford Dam which can be portaged to the park area below the dam, but not easily. If you do continue, the Huron River flows into Belleville Lake.
