Fall Color River Rafting: 8 Places in Michigan that Will Hook You Up

Splash Into Michigan’s Fall Colors – Float Down a River!

Michigan is on the map when it comes to captivating fall colors. And while driving or even taking a chairlift ride is a common way to take in the scenery, have you considered rafting?

Rafting gives you a whole new perspective – and it’s a perfect activity for people who haven’t paddled much. Bring the toddlers and the grandparents – the whole family can likely fit into your raft and enjoy the experience together. And, because river rafts are super stable, it’s hard to tip over.

The key – you need someone who knows how to steer. Everyone else just needs to paddle a little here and there.

Fall River Rafting Spots

If that sounds good, here’s a list of top places in Michigan offering fall river rafting rentals:

1 – Riverside Canoe Trips

5042 N Scenic Hwy, Honor, MI 49640
River: Platte River

Tucked away in the famous Sleeping Bear Dunes, the Platte River offers a tranquil float that promises vibrant colors and serene nature views. Plus, in October, the salmon are running and you’ll likely see the sturdy fish swimming upstream! Beyond that, you’ll end up at Lake Michigan, too, which is an added treat.

2 – Pine River Paddlesports

9590 M – 37, Wellston, MI 49689
River: Pine River

The Pine River, near Cadillac, is a fast-moving river that is filled with twists and turns. Navigate through the breathtaking Pine River surrounded by Michigan’s signature fall colors – and if you’re in a raft – you will probably stay dry on your trip.

Pine River

3 – Jordan Valley Outfitters

311 N Lake St, East Jordan, MI 49727
River: Jordan River

Jordan River Outfitters allows up to eight people per raft. The Jordan River is one of the faster-moving rivers in Michigan. It’s spring-fed, crystal clear, and about three to four feet deep. Running through the State Forest, you’ll see a lot of cedar trees and hardwoods hugging its banks. The river is peppered with sticks, branches, and beaver dams that turn your paddling journey into a game of “how good can you steer? and duck?!” It’s a lot of fun!

Trip Duration options are for 1.5 or 3 hours

Jordan River

4 – Hinchman Acres

702 N Morenci Box 220, Mio, MI 48647
River: AuSable River

The AuSable River is one of Michigan’s most lovely rivers. It’s pristine. And it runs through miles of protected forest. It’s also a “Blue Ribbon Trout Stream.” Famous with canoers, it’s also a nice place to float in a raft. High banks covered with trees yield amazing fall color scenes. Nearby River Road and Lumberman’s Monument are also worth a stop if you’re in the area.

5 – Wisner Rents Canoes

25 West Water St, Newaygo, MI 49337
River: Big Muskegon River

This section of the Big Muskegon River is perfect for paddlers of all skill levels. The river, carving through high banks and low tree-covered areas, offers stunning scenery at every bend. From pine, oak, maple, beech, and aspen trees, you get a visual treat. Also, don’t forget to spot the majestic bald eagles nesting nearby.

Trip Options- Thornapple to Newaygo Long Raft trip (4.5 hrs) & Newaygo to Anderson Short Raft Trip (2.5 hrs)

6 – Big Bear Adventures

4271 S Straits Hwy, Indian River, MI 49749
River: Sturgeon River

The Sturgeon River is the fastest river in Michigan’s Lower Peninsula, although it doesn’t qualify as whitewater. Its swift current, leaning trees, stumps, and logs are not a problem on a raft trips, though, thanks to the raft’s added stability. All river trips end at Burt Lake State Park.

Please Call Ahead on May and October weekdays.

Sturgeon River

7 – Sturgeon River Sports

12961 S Straits Hwy #2, Wolverine, MI 49799
River: Sturgeon River

Sturgeon River Paddlesports in downtown Wolverine is a full service livery offering Kayak, Canoe, Raft and Tube rentals on the upper portion of the Sturgeon River.

They service all sorts of trips. In the fall, you need to call ahead and make a reservation.

8 – AAA Canoe and Kayak Rentals

11858 Northland Dr NE, Rockford, MI 49341
River: Rogue River

AAA Canoe & Kayak Rentals is the Rockford area’s finest full service provider of canoe, kayak and tube float trips on the scenic Rogue River for 45 years. Whether a beginner or an experienced paddler, the Rogue River offers a relaxing and leisurely adventure.

Fun Twist for Fall

All in all, Michigan just keeps offering more ways to appreciate the fall colors!

And, with the option of river rafting, now more people can enjoy a tranquil fall float down the river.

What do you think? Will you go on a fall river float? If you’ve been, let us know about your trip in the comments.