Activity
Conditions
Amenities
Best Time to Visit
Highway 38
Highway 38 is a public boat ramp on Sturgeon River near Pelkie, Michigan. This beginner-level spot offers kayaking, canoeing. Amenities include boat ramp, parking, restrooms. Best visited in summer.
At a Glance
Water Body
River
Launch Type
Boat Ramp
Difficulty
Beginner
Hours
Open at all times
Activities
Kayaking, Canoeing
Parking
Parking lot available at boat ramp facility
Cell Service
Good
Gentle moving water with mild current. Suitable for beginners who are comfortable with basic paddle strokes and steering.
About This Location
Boat Ramp accessing Sturgeon River near Pelkie, Michigan. mild current conditions.
Paddlers heading out on Sturgeon River will find Highway 38 in Michigan a reliable starting point with established launch facilities.
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. Great Lakes paddling combines freshwater vastness with coastal-style conditions and scenery.
Expect mild current conditions on the water. The best time to visit is June through August. Facilities include boat ramp and parking and restrooms.
Highway 38 sits about 5 min from Pelkie, making it a convenient option for local and visiting paddlers.
Paddling Tips
- •Scout downstream from the launch before committing to your paddle.
- •Always face upstream when entering or exiting your boat at the ramp.
- •River levels change with rainfall — check the USGS gauge before you go.
- •Dress for the water temperature, not the air temperature.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How do I access Highway 38?
- Highway 38 is a public boat ramp in Michigan. There is no entrance fee. Hours: Open at all times.
- What activities are available at Highway 38?
- Highway 38 supports kayaking, canoeing. The difficulty level is rated beginner, making it great for all skill levels.
- What amenities are at Highway 38?
- On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking, restrooms. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.
- When is the best time to visit Highway 38?
- The best time to paddle at Highway 38 is during summer. June through August
- What are the water conditions at Highway 38?
- Water conditions at Highway 38 include mild current.
- Is Highway 38 good for beginners?
- Yes, Highway 38 is rated beginner difficulty, making it an excellent choice for first-time paddlers and families. Gentle moving water with mild current. Suitable for beginners who are comfortable with basic paddle strokes and steering.
Location data: USGS ScienceBase · Water conditions: USGS NWIS · Weather: National Weather Service · Coordinates: 46.7782, -88.6181
Quick Facts
- State
- Michigan
- Region
- Great Lakes
- Getting There
- ~5 min from Pelkie
46.7782, -88.6181
Best Paddling in Michigan
Read our complete guide →
Paddler Reviews
Write a Review
Trip Reports
Paddle Routes from Here
No paddle routes from this location yet.
Be the first to create one!
More Paddling on Sturgeon River
5 other launches on this water body

Loretto Sturgeon River
Michigan · 78.4 mi
River Road Bridge
Michigan · 79.5 mi

Rondo
Michigan · 216.3 mi

Meadows
Michigan · 218.3 mi
Cornwell Grade
Michigan · 221.5 mi
Nearby Paddling
Prickett Lake
Michigan · 5.6 mi
L'Anse Bay
Michigan · 6.3 mi
L'Anse Waterfront Park
Michigan · 7.8 mi
Otter Lake
Michigan · 9.2 mi
Otter Lake Dam
Michigan · 10.9 mi
Pike Lake
Michigan · 11.3 mi