Harlow Creek Kayaking Guide
Harlow Creek is the short stream connecting Harlow Lake to Lake Superior in Marquette County, with its mouth at approximately 46.6357624, -87.4684703 and Harlow Lake sitting just inland at about 46.6375, -87.5049. It lies in the Little Presque Isle recreation area, a stretch of Lake Superior shoreline beloved by hikers — the creek corridor is documented far more for its trails than for any boating.
No kayaking or canoeing route down Harlow Creek is documented. The creek is short, small, and essentially a lake outlet dropping to the big lake — not a paddling run. What draws people here is the hiking around Harlow Lake and the Lake Superior shoreline, plus the sea-kayaking possibilities on the lake itself for properly equipped paddlers. The creek is scenery, not a route.
Harlow Creek at a Glance
- Region: Central UP — Marquette County
- Difficulty: Not documented
- Character: Short stream connecting Harlow Lake to Lake Superior
- Mouth: Approx. 46.6357624, -87.4684703
- Watch for: Area known for hiking; creek itself is not a paddling route
Paddling the Harlow Creek
No established paddling route
No established route down Harlow Creek is documented, and none is plausible: it is a short lake-outlet stream, not a floatable river. Paddlers visiting the area have two real options nearby — flatwater paddling on Harlow Lake itself, and Lake Superior sea kayaking along the Little Presque Isle shoreline for experienced, properly equipped sea kayakers. Do not confuse the creek with either. Check local sources for current access and conditions at Harlow Lake.
Hazards & Portages
No hazards are documented because no paddling route is documented. The relevant water hazards here belong to Lake Superior: cold water in every season, fog, and weather that changes fast along this exposed shoreline. Anyone paddling the lake near the creek's mouth needs sea-kayak skills, immersion gear, and a marine forecast — the creek itself is not the venue.
Access & Parking
No creek launch is documented, because the creek is not a paddling route. Trailheads serving Harlow Lake and the Little Presque Isle area provide access for hikers and for carry-in boating on Harlow Lake where permitted. The map below marks the creek's mouth on Lake Superior. Confirm current access rules with the managing agency before visiting.
Map
Paddle It With the Club
The West Michigan Kayaking Club paddles rivers like the Harlow Creek all season long. Come float with us!