Net River Kayaking Guide
The Net River is a Baraga County stream with a rustic launch reported near 46°25'44.4"N, 88°30'49.6"W — about 46.42900, -88.51378. A rustic launch is a starting point, not a route description, and no paddle itinerary, mileage, or portage information is documented for the river itself.
Important timing note: Net River Dam and access reconstruction work during summer and fall 2026 closed boating access. Depending on when you read this, conditions at the launch and around the dam may still be affected — verify the current status with local sources before planning any trip. Construction zones and dams are a combination to take seriously, not casually.
Beyond the launch area and the dam work, the Net River is undocumented paddling water. Treat any trip here as exploratory, keep the dam fully in mind, and confirm access is actually open before you drive out.
Net River at a Glance
- Region: Western Upper Peninsula — Baraga County
- Difficulty: Unknown — no route documented; dam present
- Character: Small stream with a rustic launch and a dam
- Signature reach: None documented
- Watch for: Net River Dam; 2026 construction closures — verify status
Paddling the Net River
The rustic launch area
A rustic launch is reported at about 46.42900, -88.51378. Rustic means what it sounds like: minimal facilities, and no documented downstream route, take-out, or mileage to plan around.
Current status warning
Dam and access reconstruction in summer–fall 2026 closed boating access at the Net River. Verify with Baraga County or local contacts that access has reopened and that conditions around the dam are safe before visiting. Do not assume a 2026 closure has lifted — confirm it.
Hazards & Portages
The Net River Dam is the defining hazard — never approach a dam from upstream without a known, safe portage, and construction-altered banks and channels may create new hazards. Upstream obstructions are undocumented; assume strainers and beaver dams. Verify access status before every trip until the post-construction situation is clearly established.
Access & Parking
A rustic launch is reported near 46.42900, -88.51378, but its status is uncertain because of the 2026 dam and access reconstruction, which closed boating access. Verify current status locally before visiting — do not count on this launch being open.
Map
The marker below is an approximate reference point at the reported rustic launch area — verify current access status before visiting (see below).
Paddle It With the Club
The West Michigan Kayaking Club paddles rivers like this one all season long. Come float with us!