Activity
Conditions
Amenities
Best Time to Visit
Ellwood Mattson Lower Harbor Park
Ellwood Mattson Lower Harbor Park is a public boat ramp on Lake Superior near Marquette, Michigan. This beginner-level spot offers kayaking, canoeing, paddleboarding. Amenities include boat ramp, parking. Best visited in summer.
At a Glance
Water Body
Lake
Launch Type
Boat Ramp
Difficulty
Beginner
Activities
Kayaking, Canoeing, SUP, Kayak Fishing
Parking
Parking lot available at boat ramp facility
Cell Service
Good
Calm, flat water suitable for first-time paddlers. No significant current or wave hazards expected.
About This Location
Lake access at Ellwood Mattson Lower Harbor Park near Marquette, Michigan. Good for kayaking and canoeing.
Situated on Lake Superior in Michigan, Ellwood Mattson Lower Harbor Park is a launch point for kayakers, canoeists, and SUP enthusiasts.
Kayakers will find the waters here well-suited to touring and exploration. The waters here are approachable for canoes, making it a good option for family outings.
You can expect calm and sheltered water when paddling here. The recommended season runs June through August. Facilities include boat ramp and parking.
Located about 5 min from Marquette, Ellwood Mattson Lower Harbor Park is a convenient option for Marquette-area paddlers.
New to paddling? This is a great beginner spot.
Calm lake waters make Ellwood Mattson Lower Harbor Park ideal for first-timers. Make sure you have the right gear:
Paddling Tips
- •Bring polarized sunglasses to reduce glare and spot submerged obstacles.
- •If fishing, try the coves and points where fish tend to congregate.
- •Morning hours offer the calmest water and best wildlife viewing on the lake.
- •Keep an eye on the weather — afternoon winds can pick up quickly on open water.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How do I access Ellwood Mattson Lower Harbor Park?
- Ellwood Mattson Lower Harbor Park is a public boat ramp in Michigan. There is no entrance fee.
- What activities are available at Ellwood Mattson Lower Harbor Park?
- Ellwood Mattson Lower Harbor Park supports kayaking, canoeing, stand up paddleboarding, kayak fishing. The difficulty level is rated beginner, making it great for all skill levels.
- What amenities are at Ellwood Mattson Lower Harbor Park?
- On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.
- When is the best time to visit Ellwood Mattson Lower Harbor Park?
- The best time to paddle at Ellwood Mattson Lower Harbor Park is during summer. June through August
- What are the water conditions at Ellwood Mattson Lower Harbor Park?
- Water conditions at Ellwood Mattson Lower Harbor Park include calm, sheltered.
- Is Ellwood Mattson Lower Harbor Park good for beginners?
- Yes, Ellwood Mattson Lower Harbor Park is rated beginner difficulty, making it an excellent choice for first-time paddlers and families. Calm, flat water suitable for first-time paddlers. No significant current or wave hazards expected.
Location data: USGS ScienceBase · Water conditions: USGS NWIS · Weather: National Weather Service · Coordinates: 46.5434, -87.3856
Quick Facts
- State
- Michigan
- Region
- Great Lakes
- Getting There
- ~5 min from Marquette
46.5434, -87.3856
Best Paddling in Michigan
Read our complete guide →
Paddler Reviews
Write a Review
Trip Reports
Share a trip report
Sign in to write a detailed trip report for Ellwood Mattson Lower Harbor Park
Sign InMore Paddling on Lake Superior
6 other launches on this water body
Presque Isle
Michigan · 2.6 mi
Burns Landing
Michigan · 25.4 mi
Munising Municipal
Michigan · 35.4 mi
L'Anse Waterfront Park
Michigan · 52.9 mi
L'Anse Bay
Michigan · 54.6 mi
Big Traverse Bay Harbor Marina
Michigan · 60.1 mi
Nearby Paddling
Presque Isle
Michigan · 2.6 mi
West Main Street
Michigan · 3.6 mi

Chocolay River M-28 Bridge
Michigan · 4.6 mi
Forestville Road Bridge
Michigan · 4.6 mi
Highway 510 Bridge
Michigan · 7.6 mi
Goose Lake
Michigan · 8.0 mi