Upper Upper Manistee River

UPPER UPPER MANISTEE RIVER

Leave the Campground at 9:30AM. Meet at the Put-In at 10:15AM on C-38/ Mancelona Rd/ (from
Old Highway 27 go west 7.7 miles on C-38/Mancelona Road to the bridge over the Manisee River), unload boats. Shuttle vehicles at 10:30AM. Once the drivers return, we will provide a safety brief, then do a group photo before anyone goes on the river.

The Manistee through this section starts very tight with some logs and beaver dams to hop and a narrow channel around the root ball of a fallen tree. Boats over 11-ft may have to portage this obstacle. After about 1 mile it opens up but there are many man made fish structures to maneuver around so it will keep you on your toes. You will encounter sweepers and a few strainers along the way with current at about 3.5 miles per hour so the are no real hazardous parts in this paddle. The scenery and technical boat handling at the start will make this a fun paddle for experienced river paddlers and a real challenge for less experienced paddlers.

The trip will cover approximately 10 miles takes about 4.5 hours including a lunch stop. We will take out at Cameron Bridge. Just west of Hiawatha Dr. on W. Cameron Bridge Rd. 44.799878, -84.840321

Volunteers for shuttle drivers are highly appreciated, and earn the "Guide" title in your profile. (please text Kristina to remind her 616.916.0133)
Please remember you are responsible for your own safety.

1. PFD Required
2. Dry clothes optional but recommended
3. we enjoy our alcoholic beverages off-river only due to safety and other concerns. Please respect the event host (It's awkward approaching someone mid-trip) and the clubs position on this matter. We’ll enjoy one with you after the trip.
4. We leave on time to make sure that those who have to drop out with out contacting us can do so. We also can't wait for those who will be running late to keep the paddle in order. Please be on time or early.
5. We leave together after the safety talk and picture. Please remain on land until the host has completed their duties in this regard. Your event host is authorized to accept donations that help keep WMKC running smoothly.