Activity
Conditions
Amenities
Best Time to Visit
Route 4001 Bridge
Route 4001 Bridge is a public boat ramp on Au Sable River near South Branch, Michigan. This beginner-level spot offers kayaking, canoeing. Amenities include boat ramp, parking. Best visited in summer.
At a Glance
Water Body
River
Launch Type
Boat Ramp
Difficulty
Beginner
Activities
Kayaking, Canoeing
Parking
Parking lot available at boat ramp facility
Cell Service
Limited
Gentle moving water with mild current. Suitable for beginners who are comfortable with basic paddle strokes and steering.
About This Location
Route 4001 Bridge offers river paddling on Au Sable River in Michigan. Located near South Branch.
Located in Michigan, Route 4001 Bridge puts you on Au Sable River with room to explore upstream or downstream from the launch.
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. Great Lakes paddling combines freshwater vastness with coastal-style conditions and scenery.
Conditions here tend to be mild current, making it suitable for paddlers of all skill levels. Plan your visit for June through August. Facilities include boat ramp and parking.
At about 10 min from South Branch, Route 4001 Bridge is a practical choice for paddlers based in the South Branch area.
Paddling Tips
- •River levels change with rainfall — check the USGS gauge before you go.
- •Dress for the water temperature, not the air temperature.
- •Know where your take-out is and how long the run takes before launching.
- •Scout downstream from the launch before committing to your paddle.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How do I access Route 4001 Bridge?
- Route 4001 Bridge is a public boat ramp in Michigan. There is no entrance fee.
- What activities are available at Route 4001 Bridge?
- Route 4001 Bridge supports kayaking, canoeing. The difficulty level is rated beginner, making it great for all skill levels.
- What amenities are at Route 4001 Bridge?
- On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.
- When is the best time to visit Route 4001 Bridge?
- The best time to paddle at Route 4001 Bridge is during summer. June through August
- What are the water conditions at Route 4001 Bridge?
- Water conditions at Route 4001 Bridge include mild current.
- Is Route 4001 Bridge good for beginners?
- Yes, Route 4001 Bridge 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: 44.6116, -83.8368
Quick Facts
- State
- Michigan
- Region
- Great Lakes
- Getting There
- ~10 min from South Branch
44.6116, -83.8368
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 Au Sable River
6 other launches on this water body
County Park No. 2
Michigan · 2.4 mi
Alcona Park
Michigan · 3.2 mi
McKinley Landing
Michigan · 5.6 mi
Comins Creek
Michigan · 10.6 mi
Mio Au Sable River
Michigan · 14.7 mi
Parmalee Bridge State Forest
Michigan · 22.9 mi
Nearby Paddling
County Park No. 2
Michigan · 2.4 mi

Alcona Park East Campground
Michigan · 2.6 mi
Alcona Park
Michigan · 3.2 mi
Horseshoe Lake
Michigan · 3.6 mi
McKinley Landing
Michigan · 5.6 mi
Comins Creek
Michigan · 10.6 mi