09/26 Big Manistee River – Hodenpyl Dam to Red Bridge
It was no wonder that we had such a big turnout today. The weather was a perfect upper seventies
with low humidity and very little wind that was very comfortable paddling. The river was running about
950 cfs and was extremely clear. Everyone knows the paddling season is coming to an end for this year
which also prompted people to participate.
We had 19 paddlers which we split into two groups. Besides TAPC Members we had guests from the
Traverse City Area and Florida. We had 2 tandem canoes, 2 solo canoes and the remainder were kayaks.
Shuttler Extraordinaire, Marv Puska provided the shuttle service for today’s trip.
We divided into two groups for safety reasons. We stopped at Flower Flats for a lunch break. I was very
impressed how well this trip worked out with this many participants. I credit everyone for their spirit of
cooperation and cheerful attitudes for the success of this large group. There were no issues and a good
time was had by all.
We didn’t see any other paddlers and only a few hikers along the stream bank. That is very unusual for
this section of river which tends to be one of the most popular sections of the Manistee River for
paddlers. The North Country Trail on the north side of the river and Manistee River Trail along the south
side of the river usually has more activity with hikers and backpackers. We saw some waterfowl and
shorebirds during this trip.
I was also very impressed with the usage this section of river has had this summer to see almost no
litter, we did retrieve one can from the bottom of the river. Amazing how thoughtful and considerate
the vast majority of river users have become.
This is a spectacular section of the Manistee River and we were very fortunate to experience the area
with ideal paddling conditions and such an enjoyable group of paddlers.
