Paddle & Play: Your Guide to Exploring the Au Sable River in Michigan
Winding through northern Michigan with calm currents and forested banks, the Au Sable River is one of the state’s most scenic escapes and is easy to get to from the Huron House. Stretching approximately 138 miles from Grayling to Lake Huron, this world-renowned waterway is known for its gentle flow, remarkable biodiversity, and year-round outdoor recreation. With an average speed of 3.5 mph and six hydroelectric dams generating more than 48,000 kilowatts of power, the Au Sable is both serene and strong.
Its steady current, clear water, and meandering bends make it perfect for canoeing, kayaking, tubing, or simply floating the day away. Whether you're planning a quick paddle or an all-day journey, this iconic stretch of northern Michigan invites you to slow down and soak up its natural beauty.
Easy Paddling with Oscoda Canoe Rental
One of the easiest ways to hit the water is through Oscoda Canoe Rental, located just minutes from Huron House. Their setup is simple: you’ll park at their riverside landing, check in, and they’ll shuttle you and your gear to your chosen launch point. From there, you’re free to paddle at your own pace. No time limits or check-in deadlines. Want to stop and swim? Drift slowly? Pull over for a picnic? It’s entirely up to you.
Their short trip option is ideal for beginners or anyone looking for a gentle two-hour float, launching from Whirlpool and covering six peaceful river miles. If you’re up for a longer adventure, try the four-hour trip from Rea Road or Foote Dam to Oscoda, which spans twelve river miles and offers a more immersive experience. They also offer tubing trips that run about four hours from Whirlpool to River Road Bridge, with morning departures and cooler tube rentals available for those who want to bring lunch and drinks along.
Pontoon Cruising with River Ratz Rentals
If you're more in the mood for a relaxed, full-day outing, River Ratz Rentals offers pontoon rentals with all the logistics handled for you: delivery, launch, gas, and pickup included. It's a perfect option for couples or small groups who want to enjoy the Au Sable without much effort.
As a locally owned and operated business, River Ratz specializes in making your time on the water simple, fun, and stress-free. Load up a cooler, bring your Bluetooth speaker, and spend the day exploring the shoreline or floating in the sun with nothing on your agenda but relaxing.
Tips for a Perfect Day on the Au Sable River
Regardless of how you choose to explore, spending a day on the Au Sable is one of the best ways to experience the natural beauty of the Oscoda area. Bring along sunscreen, water shoes, a waterproof bag for your essentials, and a towel or dry clothes for the ride back.
While staying at Huron House, you can also upgrade your experience with our signature Picnic Package, which includes homemade sandwiches, snacks, a chilled bottle of Prosecco or non-alcoholic sparkling wine, and souvenir flutes for 2, perfect for a romantic lunch along the riverbank.
Your Au Sable River Adventure Starts Here
The Au Sable River of Michigan is a peaceful escape, a floating retreat, and a reminder of the simple joys of summer. Whether you’re drifting in a tube, paddling alongside forested banks, or anchoring your pontoon in a quiet cove, you’ll have an authentic Pure Michigan experience you can't find anywhere else.
Book your stay at our Michigan bed and breakfast, spend the day (or weekend) on the river, and enjoy a perfect summer escape.
