Cedar River Kayaking Guide
The Cedar River is a Menominee County stream in Michigan's central Upper Peninsula, flowing to Green Bay. It is a low-gradient coastal river rather than a whitewater run — the kind of waterway paddlers use for relaxed flatwater outings near the bay rather than for a point-to-point river trip.
The one firmly documented access is the Cedar River Mouth Ramp at the river's mouth (45.38807, -87.36693), listed among Michigan water-trail access points. A local outfitter and rental business operates in the Cedar River area, which makes arranging a boat straightforward even for visitors passing through.
What public sources do not provide is a supported point-to-point paddling route or mileage on the Cedar River. Treat the mouth ramp as a launch for exploring the lower river and the nearby Green Bay shoreline, and check Michigan DNR boating access maps for any additional upstream access before planning more.
Cedar River at a Glance
- Region: Central UP — Menominee County, flowing to Green Bay
- Difficulty: Easy flatwater at the mouth; no rapids documented
- Character: Low-gradient coastal river meeting Green Bay
- Signature access: Cedar River Mouth Ramp (45.38807, -87.36693)
- Watch for: Green Bay wind and waves; no documented upstream route or mileage
Paddling the Cedar River
Cedar River Mouth Ramp and the lower river
The documented way onto the water is the Cedar River Mouth Ramp near the river's mouth at Green Bay. From here paddlers can explore the slow lower river and the sheltered shoreline nearby. Because no upstream mileage or route description is published, plan this as an out-and-back outing from the mouth rather than a through-trip, and stay within conditions you are comfortable handling on open bay water.
Hazards & Portages
No dams, rapids, or portages are documented on the paddled portion of the Cedar River. The real hazard is Green Bay itself: wind can build waves quickly on the open bay, and the water stays cold well into summer. Paddle the river mouth and shoreline conservatively, wear a PFD, and dress for cold-water immersion.
Access & Parking
The Cedar River Mouth Ramp (45.38807, -87.36693) is the documented public access at the river's mouth. A local outfitter in the area offers rentals for visitors without their own boats. No other launches are confirmed in public sources — verify any additional access on Michigan DNR boating access maps before relying on it.
Map
Paddle It With the Club
The West Michigan Kayaking Club paddles Michigan's waterways all season long. Come float with us!