Little Hemlock River Kayaking Guide
The Little Hemlock River is a 7.8-mile tributary of the Hemlock River in Iron County in the western Upper Peninsula, joining the larger stream at about 46.23301, -88.46069. It is a small, remote tributary in the Paint River watershed — headwaters country of smallmouth streams and trout water, not developed paddling country.
One clarification matters here: the main Hemlock River is known for named rapids that attract experienced whitewater paddlers. Those rapids belong to the Hemlock River itself, not to this 7.8-mile tributary. Do not transfer the main river's whitewater reputation — or its hazards — onto the Little Hemlock.
No established paddling route, mileage, or public launch is documented for the Little Hemlock River. A stream this small, in terrain this remote, offers at best a brief high-water float for self-sufficient explorers — and the sources consulted contain no trip report confirming even that. Treat it as unscouted water.
Little Hemlock River at a Glance
- Region: Western Upper Peninsula — Iron County
- Difficulty: Not a documented paddling route
- Character: 7.8-mile Hemlock River tributary in remote headwaters country
- Known for: Being the small, quiet sibling of a whitewater-known river
- Watch for: The Hemlock's named rapids are not on this stream; no verified access
Paddling the Little Hemlock River
No established route
No kayak itinerary is documented for the Little Hemlock River. The 7.8-mile stream joins the Hemlock River at approximately 46.23301, -88.46069, and the sources consulted record no put-ins, take-outs, or mileage. Spring runoff is the only plausible float window for a stream this size, and it is unconfirmed.
Don't confuse it with the Hemlock
Whitewater paddlers who know the Hemlock River's rapids should understand that this tributary is a different, much smaller water with none of that documented character. If you want the Hemlock's whitewater, paddle the Hemlock — with the skills and safety setup its rapids demand. The Little Hemlock is a separate scouting proposition entirely.
Hazards & Portages
Expect the standard remote small-stream hazards: strainers, logjams, beaver dams, and shallow water, with no documented portages because there is no documented route. This is wild country — cell coverage is unreliable, so scout and paddle with a partner and a float plan left with someone reliable.
Access & Parking
No public boat launch or confirmed river access is documented for the Little Hemlock River. Verify ownership at every road crossing using DNR maps and Iron County plats before parking or putting in.
Map
Map shows the documented mouth reference point for this stream; no public launch is confirmed there.
Paddle It With the Club
The West Michigan Kayaking Club paddles rivers like the Little Hemlock River all season long. Come float with us!