Activity
Conditions
Amenities
Best Time to Visit
Norton Road
Norton Road is a public boat ramp on South Manisitique Lake near Gould City, 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
Good
Calm, flat water suitable for first-time paddlers. No significant current or wave hazards expected.
About This Location
Norton Road offers lake paddling on South Manisitique Lake in Michigan. Located near Gould City.
Lake paddlers in Michigan will appreciate Norton Road, which offers direct access to South Manisitique Lake and its surrounding waters.
Kayaking is the most popular activity here, with the water conditions supporting a range of skill levels. Canoeists can enjoy the calmer sections for a relaxed paddle.
You can expect calm and sheltered water when paddling here. The recommended season runs June through August. Facilities include boat ramp and parking and restrooms and dock and ada accessible.
Located about 5 min from Gould City, Norton Road is a convenient option for Gould City-area paddlers.
New to paddling? This is a great beginner spot.
Calm lake waters make Norton Road ideal for first-timers. Make sure you have the right gear:
Paddling Tips
- •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.
- •Hug the shoreline for the most interesting scenery and easier paddling.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How do I access Norton Road?
- Norton Road is a public boat ramp in Michigan. There is no entrance fee. Hours: Open at all times.
- What activities are available at Norton Road?
- Norton 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 Norton Road?
- On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking, restrooms, dock, ada accessible. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.
- When is the best time to visit Norton Road?
- The best time to paddle at Norton Road is during summer. June through August
- What are the water conditions at Norton Road?
- Water conditions at Norton Road include calm, sheltered.
- Is Norton Road good for beginners?
- Yes, Norton 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: 46.1587, -85.7543
Quick Facts
- State
- Michigan
- Region
- Great Lakes
- Getting There
- ~5 min from Gould City
46.1587, -85.7543
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 South Manisitique Lake
2 other launches on this water body
Nearby Paddling
South Manisitique Lake Campground
Michigan · 2.1 mi
Wolfe Road
Michigan · 2.4 mi
Portage Township Park
Michigan · 3.2 mi
Saw-Wa-Quato Street
Michigan · 3.6 mi
Log Cabin Resort and Campground
Michigan · 4.5 mi
Cooks Bay
Michigan · 4.6 mi