Paddle the peaceful AuTrain River with a solo HERON kayak rental from Northwoods Resort. Enjoy serene waters, quiet wildlife, and a full day of independent adventure in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
3–6 hours
Fitness Level
Basic fitness recommended; comfortable sitting and paddling for several hours
Wildlife
History
The AuTrain River area has long been valued by the Ojibwe people who historically used the river for transportation and fishing.
Conservation
Northwoods Resort promotes leave-no-trace principles and supports local efforts to maintain clean waterways and preserve native habitats.
Northwoods Resort
Paddle the peaceful AuTrain River with a solo HERON kayak rental from Northwoods Resort. Enjoy serene waters, quiet wildlife, and a full day of independent adventure in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula.
Northwoods Resort is a family-owned lakefront outfitter located in Au Train, Michigan, offering a range of boat and paddlecraft rentals on AuTrain Lake and the AuTrain River.
The resort provides pontoon rentals — including a 24' pontoon for up to 12 people and a Sylvan luxury pontoon called Blue Moon — smaller pontoons like a 14' Playbuoy with a 9.9hp motor, and a versatile 16' flat-bottom "Duck" boat for up to five guests. Paddle options include kayaks (OutLaw, Solora 120, Twin Heron, Malibu XL, Banzai) and a canoe with a popular 2.5–3 hour float route from Cameron Crossing to Doucette Bridge. Rentals include life jackets, essential gear, and fuel where noted, with durations ranging from a few hours to full-day or weekly options.
Northwoods Resort serves anglers, families, and paddling enthusiasts seeking shoreline views, quiet river floats, or group outings on AuTrain Lake. On-water equipment is maintained to industry standards and staff provide local navigation guidance and safety reminders at checkout. Booking details, availability, rates, and specific gear inclusions are provided at reservation. The property’s location in Au Train offers direct access to both lake and river environments, making it practical for fishing, tubing add-ons on select pontoons, and scenic paddles.
Visitors should confirm specific vehicle or trailer arrangements at booking and review any age or weight recommendations for individual craft. Northwoods Resort maintains local knowledge of seasonal water conditions and rental options to match guest needs. Customers can view current availability and specific craft details when scheduling reservations online or by phone directly.
Location
Au Train, MI
Direct access to AuTrain Lake and River
Tours Offered
11 rentals
Pontoons, boats, kayaks, canoe
Max Capacity
12 people
Largest pontoon fits 12 guests
Rental Durations
Hours to Week
Options from a few hours to a week
Choose a pontoon, kayak, or canoe for a few hours, a full day, or a week — check availability and included gear to plan your day on the water.
Check Water Levels Before You Go
River conditions can vary from season to season—confirm current water levels at Northwoods Resort to ensure safe paddling.
Bring Sunscreen and a Hat
The river’s open sections offer little shade—sun protection will keep you comfortable during your full-day paddle.
Pack a Dry Bag
Keep your phone, snacks, and extra layers protected from splashes and unexpected rain.
Wear Appropriate Footwear
Durable water shoes or sandals with grip will help with launching and exiting the kayak safely on rocky shores.
Personal Flotation Device (PFD)
Mandatory for safety while paddling solo on the river.
Waterproof Dry Bag
Protects your gear and electronics from water exposure.
Sun Hat
Provides crucial sun protection during extended daylight hours.
summer
Water Shoes
Grips slippery riverbanks and keeps feet safe when launching or landing.