Thrilling Tube Trips on Sturgeon River, Michigan
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
2–4 hours
Fitness Level
Participants should be in moderate physical condition able to paddle and maneuver through obstacles for several hours.
Overview
Discover tubing adventures on Michigan's Sturgeon River! Perfect for all skill levels, enjoy scenic paddling and exciting water fun with Big Bear Adventures.
Tube Trips
Ages 6+ • 1.5 & 2.5 Hours
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About This Adventure
Experience the thrill of tubing down the stunning Sturgeon River in Northern Michigan! This exciting adventure requires paddling and navigating obstacles, perfect for those seeking a fun challenge. Choose from beginner-friendly or more advanced trips, and enjoy a memorable day on the water with friends and family. Book your adventure today!
Adventure Down the River in a Tube!
About
Looking for the perfect way to spend a hot, sunny afternoon in beautiful Northern Michigan? Adventure down the clear, refreshing Sturgeon River in a tube! River Tubing is a wet and incredibly fun group experience.
Note: This is NOT a lazy river—you'll need to watch where you're going, paddle occasionally, and push away from logs and sticks. This adds to the excitement for those with an adventurous spirit! Tubing is best enjoyed on sunny days with temperatures of at least 70 degrees.
Please Note: Tubes move slower than rafts, so a 2-hour raft trip will take about 2.5 hours by tube. Upgrades to DELUXE Tubes and Cooler Tubes are available!
- Large Groups: Please carpool together.
Trip Options
- 1.5 Hour Trip: Great for beginners and families.
- 2.5 Hour Trip: Offers more excitement for the advanced. Not recommended for youth.
More Info
- Age Requirement: Ages 6 and older only (no lap riders allowed).
- Skill Requirement: Tubers must be comfortable and confident in, on, and around water. Please consider your/your group's abilities.
- Recommendations: We strongly recommend the short trip for families and Sturgeon River first-timers.
- Safety: Life jackets are required for minors (17 years old and under) and non-swimmers.
- End Point: Trips end at our designated point inside Burt Lake State Park. Tubers carry their tubes on a 4-minute walk back to Big Bear.
- You are responsible for any lost, stolen, or damaged equipment.
Book your tubing adventure now and enjoy a refreshing, fun-filled day on the river!
Adventure Tips
Wear Water Shoes
Protect your feet from rocks and slippery riverbeds by wearing sturdy water shoes.
Bring Waterproof Gear
Use waterproof bags to keep your valuables dry during the trip.
Know Your Skill Level
Choose beginner or advanced tubing routes based on your comfort with river obstacles.
Hydrate Before and After
Bring plenty of water and stay hydrated throughout your outdoor adventure.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Bald Eagles often spotted near the river
- Beavers building dams along quieter stretches
History
The Sturgeon River area was historically used by Native American tribes for fishing and travel, reflecting its long-standing importance to local communities.
Conservation
Big Bear Adventures emphasizes Leave No Trace principles to protect the river’s ecosystem and sponsors local clean-up efforts.
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Adventure Hotspots in Gaylord
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Inflatable Tube with Handle
Provides a comfortable and maneuverable float for the river trip.
summer specific
Personal Flotation Device (PFD)
Required for safety, helps keep you afloat in any water conditions.
Waterproof Dry Bag
Keeps valuables like phones and keys safe and dry.
Sun Protection (Hat & Sunscreen)
Protects your skin from harmful UV rays during sunny days on the water.
summer specific