Floodwood River Kayaking Guide
The Floodwood River is an 11-mile river in Ontonagon County that flows north to Lake Superior west of the village of Ontonagon. Its source lies at about 46.72028, -89.38444 and its mouth at about 46.84944, -89.39750 — a short, direct run from the interior uplands to the big lake through the western UP's forest country.
At just 11 miles, the Floodwood is a small river even by UP standards, and it carries no documented paddling route, launch, or trip report. Short Lake Superior tributaries like this one are typically steep, rocky, and flashy — boatable, if at all, only during spring snowmelt — and the mouth opens directly onto an exposed Lake Superior shoreline. There is no published basis for planning a kayak trip on the Floodwood River.
Floodwood River at a Glance
- Region: Western UP — Ontonagon County
- Difficulty: Not documented
- Character: 11-mile river running north to Lake Superior
- Mouth: Approx. 46.84944, -89.39750
- Watch for: Short, likely flashy stream; exposed lake shoreline at the mouth
Paddling the Floodwood River
No established paddling route
No established kayaking or canoeing route is documented for the Floodwood River, and no public access point or portage is published. Its short length and direct drop to Lake Superior suggest the kind of small, steep tributary that is rarely floatable outside of high spring flows. Paddlers looking for western UP water have far better-documented options nearby, including the Ontonagon River system. If you scout the Floodwood, treat it as exploration: confirm public access, check flows, and be ready to walk away.
Hazards & Portages
No hazards are documented because no paddling route is documented. Small Lake Superior tributaries commonly hide logjams and beaver dams behind blind bends, and their mouths can carry surf and strong outflow currents where they meet the lake. Lake Superior's water is dangerously cold in every season — a capsize near the mouth without a drysuit and self-rescue skills can turn life-threatening in minutes.
Access & Parking
No public boat launch or carry-in access is documented for the Floodwood River. The map below marks the river's mouth west of Ontonagon. Verify land ownership and legal parking at any road crossing with Michigan DNR maps before visiting.
Map
Paddle It With the Club
The West Michigan Kayaking Club paddles rivers like the Floodwood River all season long. Come float with us!