Au Sable River: Grayling to Stephan Bridge
A 13-mile paddle on Michigan's most famous trout stream through the Holy Waters, the birthplace of American fly fishing.
At a Glance
Distance
13 miles
Estimated Time
4-5 hours
Difficulty
Beginner
Route Type
One-Way
Water Body
Au Sable River
Activities
Best Seasons
Route Map
About This Route
The Au Sable River is Michigan's most famous canoe stream and the birthplace of the modern fly fishing movement. This classic section from Grayling to Stephan Bridge flows through northern Michigan's pine and hardwood forests, past the legendary Mason Tract — one of the state's most pristine river stretches.
The river is narrow (40-60 feet), clear, and cold with a sand and gravel bottom. The current is steady, carrying paddlers downstream through a canopy of cedar, pine, and birch. Brown and brook trout rise in the pools, and the Au Sable is catch-and-release only through the Mason Tract.
This route is the course of the annual Au Sable River Canoe Marathon — a 120-mile overnight race that's been running since 1947.
Highlights
- •Michigan's most famous canoe stream
- •Mason Tract — pristine fly fishing water
- •Annual Au Sable River Canoe Marathon course
- •Brown and brook trout in cold clear water
Safety & Hazards
Narrow river with occasional downed trees. Be prepared to maneuver. Flies-only, catch-and-release trout rules apply in the Holy Waters stretch. Give anglers a wide, quiet berth.
Shuttle Information
Drop vehicle at Stephan Bridge access, then drive west to Grayling (~20 min via M-72).
Frequently Asked Questions
- How difficult is Au Sable River: Grayling to Stephan Bridge?
- Au Sable River: Grayling to Stephan Bridge is rated beginner difficulty. Narrow river with occasional downed trees. Be prepared to maneuver. Flies-only, catch-and-release trout rules apply in the Holy Waters stretch. Give anglers a wide, quiet berth.
- How long does Au Sable River: Grayling to Stephan Bridge take?
- Au Sable River: Grayling to Stephan Bridge covers 13 miles and typically takes 4-5 hours.
- Do I need a shuttle for Au Sable River: Grayling to Stephan Bridge?
- Au Sable River: Grayling to Stephan Bridge is a one-way route. Drop vehicle at Stephan Bridge access, then drive west to Grayling (~20 min via M-72).
- When is the best time to paddle Au Sable River: Grayling to Stephan Bridge?
- The best seasons for Au Sable River: Grayling to Stephan Bridge are summer and fall. Au Sable River: Grayling to Stephan Bridge is on Au Sable River.
- What activities are available on Au Sable River: Grayling to Stephan Bridge?
- Au Sable River: Grayling to Stephan Bridge supports Kayaking, Canoeing, Kayak Fishing. Highlights: Michigan's most famous canoe stream, Mason Tract — pristine fly fishing water, Annual Au Sable River Canoe Marathon course, Brown and brook trout in cold clear water.
Quick Facts
- Take-out
- Stephan Bridge Access
- Water Body
- Au Sable River
- State
- Michigan
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