Platte River Trail

The Platte River Trail offers families a memorable paddle through one of northern Michigan's most beautiful waterways. With gentle rapids perfect for beginners and calm stretches ideal for wildlife spotting, this scenic route lets kids experience the thrill of river kayaking or canoeing in a safe, manageable setting. The crystal-clear water and sandy bottom make it less intimidating for first-time paddlers, while the stunning natural scenery keeps everyone engaged.

• ✓Gentle Class I rapids that give kids an exciting taste of whitewater without being scary
• ✓Crystal-clear water where you can see trout swimming below your boat
• ✓Wildlife spotting including turtles sunning on logs, blue herons, and occasional deer along the banks
• ✓Sandy beaches perfect for stopping to swim, skip stones, or have a snack break
• ✓Stunning views of northern Michigan forests and sand dunes

1. 1.Rent from local outfitters who provide shuttle service back to your car, saving you the hassle of arranging two vehicles.
2. 2.Bring water shoes with good grip as you may need to get out and walk your boat through shallow areas.
3. 3.Pack snacks and drinks in a dry bag, along with sunscreen and bug spray, as you will be on the water for several hours.
4. 4.Visit on weekday mornings during summer to avoid the busiest times and have a more peaceful experience.
5. 5.Bring waterproof phone cases or cameras to capture the gorgeous scenery and wildlife, including blue herons, turtles, and trout in the clear water.

Late spring through early fall (May through September) offers the best conditions, with summer providing warmest water temperatures. Weekday mornings are ideal for avoiding crowds, especially during peak summer months. Water levels are typically best in late spring and early summer, making paddling easier.

Rental fees for kayaks and canoes are budget-friendly (typically $30-50 per boat), and most local outfitters include life jackets and shuttle service. There are no facilities along the river itself, so plan bathroom breaks before launching and pack out all trash.

The river is paddleable from late April through October, though outfitters typically operate Memorial Day through Labor Day. Spring offers higher water levels but colder temperatures, while late summer can have lower water requiring occasional walking through shallow spots. Fall foliage makes September especially beautiful but requires wetsuits due to cold water.

Stop at the Riverside Canoe Trips snack bar for quick bites, or drive 15 minutes to downtown Honor for family-friendly options like the Honor Trading Post Deli with sandwiches and ice cream.