Paddle together down Michigan’s scenic AuTrain River in the Dirigo Tandem Plus kayak. Perfect for groups craving a shared river experience amid nature’s peaceful backdrop.
Paddle together down Michigan’s scenic AuTrain River in the Dirigo Tandem Plus kayak. Perfect for groups craving a shared river experience amid nature’s peaceful backdrop.
Book with Northwoods Resort
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by Northwoods Resort · Marquette, Michigan
The AuTrain River in Michigan's Upper Peninsula offers a refreshing paddling experience accessible to both novices and seasoned kayakers alike. The Dirigo Tandem Plus kayak, designed to hold up to three paddlers, transforms a simple river trip into a shared adventure on the water. This versatile kayak model allows family members or friends to glide together downstream, taking in the quiet ripples and lush riverbanks that mark this tranquil waterway.
Beginning near AuTrain, MI, the river flows gently through a landscape marked by mixed hardwood forests and rocky shores, characteristic of the region’s glacial history. The water readily reflects the vivid greens of summer and the fiery shades of autumn, making every journey distinct with the seasons. The kayak’s stability and innovative design reduce balancing concerns, allowing paddlers to focus more on the natural scenery than the technical challenges of maneuvering.
What sets the Dirigo Tandem Plus experience apart here is its accommodation of groups who want to share both the effort and thrill of kayaking. Whether floating past exposed cliffs formed by ancient geologic shifts or spotting local wildlife such as white-tailed deer and great blue herons, this trip offers intimate interaction with nature without sacrificing comfort.
This kayak also encourages longer paddling days without fatigue, perfect for families seeking a calm retreat or adventurous friends eager to cover more water. The nearby city of Marquette serves as the best base for travelers, providing easy access to the river and other recreational opportunities in the region. The AuTrain River’s mixture of calm waters and subtle currents, combined with the Dirigo Tandem Plus, creates one of Michigan's standout river adventures for group paddlers.
moderate.
2–4 hours.
Should be in moderate physical shape, able to paddle continuously for several hours.
Yes, it’s designed for stability and ease of paddling, making it beginner-friendly.
Up to three paddlers can comfortably share this kayak.
Basic paddling skills help but are not required since the boat is stable and easy to maneuver.
All paddlers must wear an approved life jacket (PFD) throughout the trip.
This listing does not specify; check with local outfitters for guided options.
Common sightings include white-tailed deer near the riverbanks and great blue herons wading in the shallows.
The AuTrain River area reflects the glacial shaping of Michigan's Upper Peninsula and was once important to local indigenous tribes for fishing and travel.
Efforts to maintain water quality and preserve native flora around the river help keep this destination pristine and sustainable for future paddlers.
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.
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