THE ADVENTURE COLLECTIVE® · Independent discovery and booking for outdoor travel
Glide along Lake Superior’s pristine shore from Au Train Beach to the stunning Scott Falls on a family-friendly paddle trip with UP Vacation. Experience powerful waterfalls, geological wonders, and tranquil waters in just a few hours.
Glide along Lake Superior’s pristine shore from Au Train Beach to the stunning Scott Falls on a family-friendly paddle trip with UP Vacation. Experience powerful waterfalls, geological wonders, and tranquil waters in just a few hours.
Book with UP Vacation
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by UP Vacation · Au Train, Michigan
The rugged northern shores of Lake Superior near Au Train, Michigan, offer one of the region’s most accessible and visually striking paddle routes: the Au Train Beach to Scott Falls journey. Operated by UP Vacation, this self-guided trip showcases the raw beauty of the Lake Superior shoreline while inviting paddlers of all skill levels to venture on a 3-mile route lasting 1 to 2 hours. From the moment you launch your kayak or paddleboard at Au Train Beach, the vastness of Superior’s cold, clear waters and the sweep of forested cliffs set the tone for an invigorating outdoor experience.
The highlight along this shoreline is undoubtedly Scott Falls, a cascading waterfall that drops dramatically into the lake’s edge. This isn’t just any waterfall—you can paddle close enough to step ashore and walk behind the thundering veil of water, a rare and captivating perspective afforded by the unique geological layout here. The cliffs framing Scott Falls are composed of volcanic basalt and sandstone layered over millennia, offering a textured, jagged shoreline emblematic of the Lake Superior basin’s glacial history.
UP Vacation’s route caters to families and pet owners, with calm waters and a manageable distance that makes the trip approachable without sacrificing scenic variety. Paddlers witness a blend of towering pines, rocky outcrops, and occasional sightings of local wildlife like bald eagles and freshwater loons. Beyond the natural elements, the area carries echoes of the region’s Ojibwe heritage and early logging communities shaped by the lake’s natural corridor.
This paddle trip stands out in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula as a vivid, hands-on way to connect with Lake Superior’s dramatic shoreline without the crowds. Whether you’re seeking a tranquil day on the water or a memorable outing with kids and dogs, UP Vacation’s offering blends adventure and ease, making it one of the top low-impact outdoor adventures in the region.
easy.
1–2 hours.
Suitable for all fitness levels; basic paddling stamina needed for this moderate distance.
Yes, the route is relatively calm with short distance, making it great for paddlers with basic skills.
Absolutely, the route accommodates pets comfortably and safely.
Au Train Beach has public parking near the launch area with easy access to the water.
Cellphone coverage may be spotty; prepare accordingly and inform someone of your plans.
UP Vacation offers this as a self-guided paddle trip, allowing for flexibility and personal pace.
Morning paddles typically offer calmer winds and smoother water conditions.
The Lake Superior shoreline near Au Train holds significance for the Ojibwe people and played a role in early logging transport routes.
Visitors are encouraged to practice Leave No Trace to preserve the lake’s pristine condition and sensitive shoreline habitats.
UP Vacation is a rental outfitter based in Au Train, Michigan, offering kayaks, canoes, and electric bike rentals for self-guided adventures on Au Train Lake, the Au Train River, and the shores of Lake Superior. The fleet includes premium sit-in and sit-on-top kayaks — including the 12' Cruise Premium, 13.5' Kraken Premium, and 12' JK Tripper — plus a lightweight 8' Bali SS designed for teens and small adults. Canoe rentals accommodate up to three people with a 700 lb capacity. The Lectric XP 3.0 electric bike is available for riders and passengers, with speeds up to 27 MPH and strong distance capability. UP Vacation lists flexible rental lengths, from eight-hour day rentals to week-long options, and equipment suited for fishing, recreational paddling, and scenic exploration. Popular self-guided routes include Au Train Lake to Doucette (approximately 9 miles), Cameron to Doucette (about 7 miles), Doucette to Au Train Beach, and Doucette to Scott Falls, many of which pass through Hiawatha National Forest and offer sandy beaches and convenient facilities. Most trips are family- and pet-friendly, with boat choices that prioritize stability and comfort. Detailed route descriptions, exact availability, and reservation instructions are provided through the business reservation channels.
Book with UP Vacation