Platte River in Michigan

Trip Overview

The Platte River from Lake Michigan is a very nice, easy paddle. There is a large parking lot at the river mouth, with picnic area, boat launch, and a nice sandy swimming area. There are usually quite a few fishermen, with boats and trailers at the launch site, depending on the time of year and the state of the salmon runs. We have paddled from the lake up to M-22 quite a few times. It is an easy paddle, starting with some river paddle, across Loon Lake, and some more river paddle. There is a campground at the bridge on one side, and a canoe livery/provisions store on the other side of the river. A nice easy paddle on a beautiful river. Up and back in about two hours

Directions:

M-72 from T. C. to Empire; M-22 to Platte River crossing; right (n.e.) to river mouth and launch point.