This is a lovely stretch of river that flows through the Mason Tract, a sanctuary that has been donated to the state and is set aside as a natural area. Although the current is not particularly swift, paddlers should be able to maneuver their boats to avoid some downed trees. It should be a delightful outing on one of the most scenic streams in the state. The water is fairly shallow (with a sand bottom) all the way.
We'll meet at Chase Bridge by 10:15 so that we can have our gear unloaded and be ready to move vehicles by 10:30 AM.
We will have a leisurely paddle from Chase Bridge to Smith Bridge, including a lunch stop at the site of Durant’s Castle. If time permits, we can also stop at the open air chapel alongside the river. The travel time from Traverse City is about an hour and a half, but it's worth it! Extra added attraction is a post-trip stop at Dawson and Stevens in Grayling for the world's best malts!
See driving directions on our website; go to South Branch of the AuSable (Chase Bridge)
Note: There are three decent routes that you can use to get to this launch, depending on where you live and how good your maps are (and how adventurous you are).