green trees beside lake under white sky during daytime
Photo by Ethan Schut on Unsplash

Activity

KayakingCanoeingBeginner

Conditions

RiverMild Current

Amenities

Boat RampParkingRestroomsADA Accessible

Best Time to Visit

Highway 69

Crystal Falls, MI · Boat Ramp · Public

Highway 69 is a public boat ramp on Paint River near Crystal Falls, 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

Highway 69 offers river paddling on Paint River in Michigan. Located near Crystal Falls.

Located in Michigan, Highway 69 puts you on Paint River with room to explore upstream or downstream from the launch.

This is a solid spot for kayaking, with enough room to settle into a comfortable paddling rhythm. Canoeing works well here, especially for those looking for a peaceful day on the water.

Water conditions are generally mild current. June through August is the recommended window for paddling here. Facilities include boat ramp and parking and restrooms and ada accessible.

Getting here from Crystal Falls takes about 5 min, putting Highway 69 within easy reach for a day trip or afternoon paddle.

Paddling Tips

  • Know where your take-out is and how long the run takes before launching.
  • 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.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I access Highway 69?
Highway 69 is a public boat ramp in Michigan. There is no entrance fee. Hours: Open at all times.
What activities are available at Highway 69?
Highway 69 supports kayaking, canoeing. The difficulty level is rated beginner, making it great for all skill levels.
What amenities are at Highway 69?
On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking, restrooms, ada accessible. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.
When is the best time to visit Highway 69?
The best time to paddle at Highway 69 is during summer. June through August
What are the water conditions at Highway 69?
Water conditions at Highway 69 include mild current.
Is Highway 69 good for beginners?
Yes, Highway 69 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: 46.0973, -88.3208

Quick Facts

Region
Great Lakes
Getting There
~5 min from Crystal Falls
Get Directions

46.0973, -88.3208

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More Paddling on Paint River

1 other launch on this water body