About the Platte River

Lower Platte River

Platte River

Gentle flowing river with easy gradual turns. As you head down the river you will come into a small lake called Loon Lake. This is part of the lower Platte river, you simply paddle along the right hand side and you will pick the river back up again. This takes approx. 20 minutes to get through. You will also pass through the State of Michigan's Fish Weir. This is a contraption that has gates that can be lowered into the river to stop the migrating Salmon from going up stream. The weir is in operation from the end of August until October. During these month portaging around the weir is necessary. River depth on average is between 2-3 feet deep with a few holes that are deeper. This is a great trip for the whole family or the beginning canoers. It truly is for all ages and abilities. Total trip time takes 2-21/2 hrs and ends at a sandy beach on Lake Michigan with a beautiful picnic area and modern restroom facilities. You will get out of the river well before it dumps into Lake Michigan

Upper Platte River

Much faster than the lower Platte River. More oriented towards the experienced canoer. The river on average is between 2-3 feet deep with tight turns, fast current, and underwater obstacles. A lot of wildlife can be seen including deer, ducks, loons, bald eagles, fish, otters.. just to name a few. This section of the Platte river is exceptionally scenic with limited places to stop along the way. A real trip....or should we say tip? Total trip time is about 3 1/2 hours and ends about 1 mile from The Trading Post on Deadstream Road.