Paint River Kayaking Guide

The Paint River runs 45.5 miles through Gogebic and Iron counties to the Brule River, and it is one of the few rivers in this series with real paddling documentation from the Michigan DNR. The DNR's trout-trail materials describe it as attractive water where kayak or canoe navigation is possible — with an honest caveat: low flows may require dragging over short distances.

The specifically documented paddling water is the South Branch below Forest Highway 16. The DNR also documents roadside parking for up to four vehicles at the South Branch bridge — west on US-2 from Iron River, north on Amvets Highway, west to National Forest 1470/Gold Mine Road, north to the bridge — with a DNR reference point at 46.208138, -88.76039. That is genuine, usable beta: a where-to-park and a where-to-paddle.

Do not transfer South Branch conditions to the entire river. The main stem runs 45.5 miles to the Brule, there is a Paint River Dam near Crystal Falls (about 46.10611, -88.33528), and no through-itinerary is documented. Paddle the documented water; treat the rest as unscouted.

Paddling the Paint River

South Branch below Forest Highway 16 (DNR-noted)

This is the documented paddle: the South Branch below Forest Highway 16, where the DNR says kayak or canoe navigation is possible. Expect attractive, forested trout water — and take the DNR's dragging warning seriously at low flows. Park at the documented roadside area (room for about four vehicles) at the South Branch bridge: from Iron River, west on US-2, north on Amvets Highway, west to NF-1470/Gold Mine Road, north to the bridge (DNR reference 46.208138, -88.76039).

The main stem (undocumented as a through-route)

The main Paint runs 45.5 miles to the Brule River, but no through-itinerary is documented, and the Paint River Dam near Crystal Falls breaks the river. Do not attempt a long through-trip without scouting every dam, rapid, and access point yourself.

Hazards & Portages

The Paint River Dam near Crystal Falls (about 46.10611, -88.33528) must be avoided or portaged — never approach a dam from upstream without a known safe portage. Low water means dragging over short distances on the South Branch. Expect strainers in a forested river, and note the small parking area: arrive early or have a backup plan.

Access & Parking

Documented: roadside parking for about four vehicles at the South Branch bridge per Michigan DNR directions (via US-2, Amvets Highway, and NF-1470/Gold Mine Road from Iron River). Otherwise, access is informal — verify ownership and parking locally.

Map

The marker below is an approximate reference point at the mouth of the Paint River — not a launch site. See the guide for the documented South Branch access.