white and gray canoe beside gray wooden dock surrounded by body of water at daytime
Photo by Adam Perry on Unsplash

Activity

KayakingCanoeingSUPKayak FishingBeginner

Conditions

LakeCalmSheltered

Amenities

Boat RampParkingRestroomsDock

Best Time to Visit

Mar-Ral Road

Presque Isle, MI · Boat Ramp · Public

Mar-Ral Road is a public boat ramp on Long Lake near Presque Isle, Michigan. This beginner-level spot offers kayaking, canoeing, paddleboarding. Amenities include boat ramp, parking, restrooms. Best visited in summer.

At a Glance

Water Body

Lake

Launch Type

Boat Ramp

Difficulty

Beginner

Hours

Open at all times

Activities

Kayaking, Canoeing, SUP, Kayak Fishing

Parking

Parking lot available at boat ramp facility

Cell Service

Limited

Calm, flat water suitable for first-time paddlers. No significant current or wave hazards expected.

About This Location

Public launch on Long Lake in Michigan. Beginner-friendly lake paddling near Presque Isle.

Paddlers visiting Long Lake in Michigan can launch from Mar-Ral Road, a well-positioned access point on the lake.

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.

Conditions here tend to be calm and sheltered, making it suitable for paddlers of all skill levels. Plan your visit for June through August. Facilities include boat ramp and parking and restrooms and dock.

At about 10 min from Presque Isle, Mar-Ral Road is a practical choice for paddlers based in the Presque Isle area.

New to paddling? This is a great beginner spot.

Calm lake waters make Mar-Ral Road ideal for first-timers. Make sure you have the right gear:

Paddling Tips

  • Keep an eye on the weather — afternoon winds can pick up quickly on open water.
  • Hug the shoreline for the most interesting scenery and easier paddling.
  • Bring polarized sunglasses to reduce glare and spot submerged obstacles.
  • If fishing, try the coves and points where fish tend to congregate.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I access Mar-Ral Road?
Mar-Ral Road is a public boat ramp in Michigan. There is no entrance fee. Hours: Open at all times.
What activities are available at Mar-Ral Road?
Mar-Ral Road 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 Mar-Ral Road?
On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking, restrooms, dock. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.
When is the best time to visit Mar-Ral Road?
The best time to paddle at Mar-Ral Road is during summer. June through August
What are the water conditions at Mar-Ral Road?
Water conditions at Mar-Ral Road include calm, sheltered.
Is Mar-Ral Road good for beginners?
Yes, Mar-Ral Road 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: 45.2211, -83.5038

Quick Facts

Region
Great Lakes
Getting There
~10 min from Presque Isle
Get Directions

45.2211, -83.5038

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