Explore Michigan's Mason Tract Wilderness on a tranquil 5-hour paddle covering 10 miles from Chase Bridge to Smith Bridge. Perfect for nature lovers seeking peaceful river views and wildlife encounters.
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Difficulty
moderate
Duration
5 hours
Fitness Level
Participants should have moderate endurance and basic upper body strength for a sustained paddle over 10 miles.
Wildlife
History
The Mason Tract area has long been preserved as wilderness, protecting native habitats and offering a glimpse into Michigan’s natural heritage.
Conservation
Efforts by local groups and companies like Campbell's Canoes focus on minimizing environmental impact by promoting Leave No Trace principles during paddling trips.
Campbell's Canoes, Kayaks & Tubing
Explore Michigan's Mason Tract Wilderness on a tranquil 5-hour paddle covering 10 miles from Chase Bridge to Smith Bridge. Perfect for nature lovers seeking peaceful river views and wildlife encounters.
Campbell's Canoes, Kayaks & Tubing is a paddlesports rental outfitter based in Roscommon, Michigan, serving visitors and residents of Northern Michigan. The business provides canoe, kayak, and tubing rentals with multiple duration options and delivery to vacation homes. Rentals come equipped with lifejackets and paddles so customers can arrive and launch quickly.
Campbell's offers short river paddles and tubing floats as well as flexible rental packages. Short trips include a 2-hour paddle from Campbell's to Steckert Bridge (approximately 1.5–2 hours) and a 3-hour paddle from Campbell's to Chase Bridge (approximately 2.5–3 hours). The 3-hour float from Campbell's to Meads Landing is a leisurely tubing option offering open or closed bottom tubes and a cooler tube for refreshments along the 1.6-mile float.
For longer wilderness paddling, the 5-hour Mason Tract paddle travels about 10 miles through the Mason Tract Wilderness Area from Chase Bridge to Smith Bridge and includes a daily shuttle at 9:30 am. Rental durations also include half-day, full-day, 3-day, 5-day, and 7-day delivery packages to support extended stays.
Campbell's facilitates easy online booking and clear trip information so renters can choose the right route and equipment. All descriptions, trip durations, delivery options, and included gear are provided to help customers plan safe, enjoyable outings on Northern Michigan waterways.
Location
Roscommon, MI
Base for Northern Michigan paddling
Free Delivery
To vacation homes
Lifejackets & paddles included
Rentals Offered
Canoes, Kayaks, Tubes
Half-day to 7-day options
Trip Options
2–3 hrs to multi-day
Paddles from 1.5 hours to 10 miles
Book online for free delivery, included lifejackets and paddles — select dates and equipment for half-day to week-long rentals.
Start Early to Avoid Afternoon Winds
Begin your paddle with the 9:30 am shuttle to enjoy calm waters before winds pick up later in the day.
Wear Sunscreen
Open stretches on the river can expose you to sun, so apply sunscreen to protect your skin throughout the day.
Bring Enough Water and Snacks
Carry plenty of water and energy-boosting snacks to stay hydrated and fueled on this 5-hour trip.
Watch for Changing Weather
Weather can shift quickly in northern Michigan, so bring lightweight rain gear just in case.
Life Jacket (PFD)
Mandatory for safety during all paddling activities.
Waterproof Dry Bag
Keeps personal items dry during the paddle.
Sunscreen
Protects skin from UV rays during open river stretches.
summer
Light Rain Jacket
Useful for unpredictable spring showers and wind protection.
spring