How do I access Route 480?

Route 480 is a public boat ramp in Michigan. There is no entrance fee. Hours: Open at all times.

What activities are available at Route 480?

Route 480 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 Route 480?

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 Route 480?

The best time to paddle at Route 480 is during summer. June through August

What are the water conditions at Route 480?

Water conditions at Route 480 include calm, sheltered.

Is Route 480 good for beginners?

Yes, Route 480 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.

green and brown boat on body of water during daytime

Photo by Mary Farrell on Unsplash

Activity

KayakingCanoeingSUPKayak FishingBeginner

Conditions

LakeCalmSheltered

Amenities

Boat RampParkingRestroomsDockADA Accessible

Best Time to Visit

Summer

Route 480

Curtis, MI · Boat Ramp · Public

Route 480 is a public boat ramp on Manisitique Lake near Curtis, 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

Launch into Manisitique Lake near Curtis, Michigan. Beginner level with calm and sheltered water.

Route 480 is a public access point on Manisitique Lake in Michigan, giving paddlers a convenient entry to 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.

Expect calm and sheltered conditions on the water. The best time to visit is June through August. Facilities include boat ramp and parking and restrooms and dock and ada accessible.

Route 480 sits about 5 min from Curtis, making it a convenient option for local and visiting paddlers.

New to paddling? This is a great beginner spot.

Calm lake waters make Route 480 ideal for first-timers. Make sure you have the right gear:

Kayaks →Life Jackets →Paddles →

Paddling Tips

•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.
•Bring polarized sunglasses to reduce glare and spot submerged obstacles.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I access Route 480?: Route 480 is a public boat ramp in Michigan. There is no entrance fee. Hours: Open at all times.
What activities are available at Route 480?: Route 480 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 Route 480?: 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 Route 480?: The best time to paddle at Route 480 is during summer. June through August
What are the water conditions at Route 480?: Water conditions at Route 480 include calm, sheltered.
Is Route 480 good for beginners?: Yes, Route 480 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: 46.2629, -85.8293