The Salmon Trout River in Marquette County is a pristine Upper Peninsula paddling destination, cherished for its crystal-clear waters, vibrant ecosystem, and tranquil natural beauty. Flowing through dense forests and untouched landscapes, it offers a serene float trip ideal for nature enthusiasts and anglers, culminating at Lake Superior.

The river is renowned for its thriving salmon and trout populations—a picturesque escape where paddlers can experience diverse wildlife, old-growth forests, and the refreshing, clear waters.

Its upper sections are wilder and more remote, while the lower stretch offers a gentle path towards Lake Superior.

 

📍 Location & Access

Main Region

• Central Upper Peninsula, Marquette County, Michigan
• Near Big Bay and Marquette
• Mouth: Lake Superior

Key Access Points

🟢 Upper River Access (Forest Road Put-in)

• Various forest roads leading to upstream points (check maps for current access)
• Popular starting point for multi-day trips
• Requires careful planning due to remoteness

🔵 Lower River Access (Public Sites & Big Bay Area)

• Public access points near Big Bay
• Various public access points closer to the mouth

The lower section, especially around Big Bay, is easily accessible.

 

🧭 River Character

🌲 Upper Sections (Wilderness Float Zone)

• Slow to moderate current, occasional swift sections
• Remote and undeveloped, dense forest views
• Few signs of civilization
• Very peaceful and challenging feel
• Popular for multi-day camping trips and wildlife viewing

🌊 Lower Sections (Wider & Lake-bound)

• Wider river, gentle current as it nears Lake Superior
• Approaches Lake Superior, some cottages and open areas
• Easy, continuous paddling towards Lake Superior

The river flows moderately for most of its length, without significant rapids that require portaging.

 

⚠️ Difficulty Rating

• Upper River: Class I-II (intermediate, some moving water)
• Lower River: Class I (beginner-friendly, leisurely float)
• Overall: Beginner to intermediate due to length and remoteness

Why it's moderate:

• Can be long, committing trips with limited access points
• Water levels can fluctuate, affecting current and obstacles
• Remoteness requires self-sufficiency

 

🛶 Recommended Kayaking Experience

🚣 Best Paddling Style

✔ Recreational River Paddling

• Multi-day wilderness trips
• Experienced day trips (shuttle required)
• Wildlife photography
• Fishing from kayak/canoe

✔ Canoeing

• Classic choice for longer river trips
• Ability to carry more gear for camping

 

🧠 Trip Planning Strategy

🟢 Option 1: Multi-Day Wilderness Trip (from upstream to Lake Superior)

• Approximately 1-3 days of paddling, depending on starting point
• Covers the wilder sections and requires camping
• Requires significant planning and shuttle logistics

🔵 Option 2: Day Trip Near Big Bay

• Approximately 2-4 hours of paddling
• Most popular and accessible option
• Experience the river's beauty in a manageable timeframe

🔴 Option 3: Explore Lake Superior (from river mouth)

• Paddle the river's mouth and venture onto Lake Superior
• Good for combining with beach activities and lake paddling
• Can be very windy and wavy on the open lake

 

🌲 Scenery & Highlights

• Old-growth forests (hemlock, cedar, pine)
• Clear, pristine waters
• Diverse wildlife (bear, moose, deer, numerous bird species, abundant fish)
• Picturesque wetlands near Lake Superior

 

🐻 Hazards & Safety

• Remoteness means limited assistance in emergencies
• Mosquitoes and biting flies, especially in summer
• Cold water temperatures, even in summer (be prepared for capsizing)
• Limited to no cell service in remote sections

Essential gear:

• PFD (mandatory)
• Sunscreen and insect repellent
• Plenty of water and food
• Maps, compass/GPS, first-aid kit
• Appropriate clothing for weather conditions and potential immersion

 

📅 Best Time to Paddle

🌸 Spring (April - May)

• Higher water levels, more challenging current
• Cooler temperatures, fewer bugs initially
• Lush green foliage emerging

☀️ Summer (June - August)

• Warmest temperatures, ideal for swimming (though water is cool)
• Most popular time, can be busy around access points
• Lower water, can expose more obstacles upstream

🍂 Fall (September - October)

• Stunning fall colors, truly spectacular
• Fewer crowds, cooler temperatures
• Excellent for photography and wilderness experience

 

🧭 Who This River Is For

✔ Ideal For:

• Beginner to intermediate paddlers
• Nature lovers and wilderness campers
• Anglers seeking prime fishing spots
• Those seeking a peaceful and rewarding adventure

❌ Not Ideal For:

• Those looking for white-water thrills
• Paddlers who prefer highly developed access points

 

🛶 Summary

The Salmon Trout River is a true natural gem of the Upper Peninsula, offering a quintessential Michigan paddling adventure:

• Pristine waters = unforgettable natural beauty
• Remote wilderness = peaceful and rewarding escape

For paddlers, it provides a perfect combination of:
spectacular scenery + abundant wildlife + serene fishing opportunities

WEST MICHIGAN KAYAKING CLUB

WILD RIVERS.RUGGED TRAILS.REAL ADVENTURE .