Salmon Trout River Kayaking Guide

Michigan has two Salmon Trout Rivers, and this is the western one: a 14.7-mile stream in Houghton County that rises in Adams Township just north of M-26 between Painesdale and Toivola, then flows to Lake Superior on the west side of the Keweenaw Peninsula near Redridge, at approximately 47.15278, -88.77278.

It should not be confused with its more famous namesake in Marquette County's Huron Mountains — the coaster brook trout river that runs through restricted Huron Mountain Club land. The Houghton County Salmon Trout is a smaller, lesser-known Keweenaw-side stream in copper country, flowing through a landscape of old mining lands, forests, and rural townships.

No paddling route is documented on the Houghton County Salmon Trout River, and no public launch was confirmed. Its gradient, obstructions, and surrounding ownership are not described in paddling sources, so it belongs firmly in the undocumented category.

Paddling the Salmon Trout River

Adams Township to Redridge

The river runs about 14.7 miles from its headwaters north of M-26 to Lake Superior near Redridge. Without documentation, nothing reliable can be said about rapids, falls, deadfall, or portages along this course.

The Lake Superior mouth

At approximately 47.15278, -88.77278 the river meets the big lake near Redridge and its historic dam. Superior's shoreline here is exposed, cold, and weather-driven — a serious environment at the end of an undocumented stream.

Hazards & Portages

Undocumented gradient and obstructions; likely deadfall in a small forested stream; no documented portages; Lake Superior exposure, cold water, and weather at the mouth.

Access & Parking

No confirmed public access point was found for the Houghton County Salmon Trout River. Check current Michigan DNR maps, verify land ownership, and seek local knowledge before any visit.

Map