Drift down Michigan’s Au Train River on a peaceful paddle with UP Vacation. This self-guided trip winds through forested banks and quiet beaches before meeting Lake Superior's expansive shoreline.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
2–4 hours
Fitness Level
Basic paddling endurance is sufficient; suitable for beginners and casual paddlers.
Wildlife
History
The Au Train River flows through lands historically used by Ojibwe communities and later by Upper Peninsula logging industries.
Conservation
Efforts in the Hiawatha National Forest focus on maintaining water quality and protecting native fish and bird habitats along the Au Train River.
UP Vacation
Drift down Michigan’s Au Train River on a peaceful paddle with UP Vacation. This self-guided trip winds through forested banks and quiet beaches before meeting Lake Superior's expansive shoreline.
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.
Location
Au Train, MI
Gateway to Lake Superior adventures
Tours Offered
11
Diverse rentals and routes
Max Capacity
700 lbs
Canoe supports up to 700 lbs
Rental Lengths
8 hrs–1 week
Flexible day and week rentals
Choose a kayak, canoe, or the Lectric XP 3.0 e-bike for a day on Au Train Lake, the Au Train River, or along Lake Superior — book rental dates through UP Vacation.
Bring a waterproof bag
Protect your gear and electronics from river splashes and unexpected rain.
Watch for changing river currents
Currents can speed up near the river’s mouth; stay alert especially if new to paddling.
Plan rest stops at river beaches
Use sandy banks to stretch your legs and try your hand at fishing before continuing.
Check weather before launching
Wind and storms can affect safety, particularly near Lake Superior’s open water.
Personal Flotation Device (PFD)
Safety first—wear a properly fitted PFD for the entire paddle.
Waterproof dry bag
Keeps your valuables and clothing dry during river travel.
Bug spray
Protects against mosquitoes and blackflies common near wetlands and forests.
summer
Layered clothing
Adjust layers to stay comfortable as temperatures change on the water.
spring|fall