U, U, U, Upper Pigeon River

Upper upper upper upper PIGEON RIVER

There is limited room at the put in, IT WILL BE EASIER FOR EVERYONE IF YOU SHARE RIDES AND CARPOOL FROM THE CAMPGROUND

This section is rarely paddled, hence not much info or beta is available. we paddled a portion in 2021 and the whole section in 2022,23,24 the river south of Sturgeon Valley road, approximately 1 1/2 miles, has been reclaimed after a dam removal.

Bring Lunch, snacks, water for the day.

FUN CHALLENGES AND PORTAGES, some very narrow areas
PRINT MAPS BEFORE YOU GO NORTH, THERE IS NO CELL SERVICE
Skill Level: Intermediate River

I will plan to leave Burt Lake SP at 9:01am. If you need to follow or you are willing to lead, please meet us at the front of the park by 9:00am.

When we get to the put in we will all help each other unload, together we will leave to drive to the take out, and get in as few vehicles as possible to shuttle back to the put in. (can you make room in your vehicle?)

U U U Upper Pigeon river

Put in: Old Vanderbuilt road, GPS 45.1281473, -84.5067469

Take-out: Ford Lake road,bridge, GPS 45.1775007, -84.4260672

Fast water, and challenges. One or two portages.
About a 3-4 hour paddle through the remote Pigeon River Country State Forest Area.

River information from the Big Bear Adventures site (http://www.bigbearadventures.com/Home/RiverServices) below

“Flowing through the heart of the Pigeon River Country State Forest, the Pigeon is one of Michigan's most beautiful and remote rivers (and home to the largest free roaming Elk herd this side of the Mississippi River!) However, the remote sections and fast current make this river a poor choice for inexperienced paddlers. Though the Pigeon River is not the main river that we service, we do occasionally offer special paddling trips. The Pigeon River is a very narrow, winding stream that is swift and challenging at times and not regularly cleared, great for "die-hard" wilderness paddlers. Please Note: Low water levels can affect the enjoyment of this trip. There are portages and a few rather large beaver dams to contend with. It takes a certain kind of person to enjoy this kind of challenge.”

More Pigeon River information from Fishweb (http://www.fishweb.com/maps/cheboygan/pigeon/)

Our sport is inherently dangerous. By signing up for this event you assume full responsibility for your and your quests safety, equipment and well being. The event includes but is not limited to loading, unloading, transport of equipment and shuttle participation. Failure to sign up for this event precludes participation in this group's events.

1. PFD Required to be worn properly at all times
2. It's a good idea to bring dry clothes in a dry bag and some in your car.
3. Please be aware that 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.