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Au Sable River - North Branch

Crawford County, Michigan Inland Lake Connected Water
2 launchesFree launch availableRec Passport required
Au Sable River - North Branch Access Map 2 launches
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Boat Launches on Au Sable River - North Branch
Lovells Bridge Boat Launch
Lovells Township · Carry-in only ramp, 0 lane, 5 trailer spots
Open Kayak Free
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Sheep Pasture Boat Launch
Hartwick Pines State Park · Carry-in only ramp, 0 lane
Open Kayak Rec Passport
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Connected Waterways

The North Branch is a major tributary of the Au Sable River, joining the mainstream in Crawford County. The full Au Sable system flows 138 miles southeast to its mouth at Lake Huron at the communities of Au Sable and Oscoda. The Au Sable's headwaters and branches — including the North Branch, South Branch, and mainstream — form one of Michigan's most important coldwater river systems, draining a large portion of the Northern Lower Peninsula.

Winter & Ice Safety

As a flowing river, the North Branch does not freeze solid and is not suitable for ice fishing in most conditions. Some slower pools may develop ice, but river ice is inherently unpredictable and dangerous. Winter steelhead fishing by wading is an option on some Au Sable stretches.

Frequently Asked Questions
What fish are in the North Branch of the Au Sable River?
Brown trout and brook trout are the primary targets. The Au Sable system is designated a blue ribbon trout stream by the Michigan DNR and is widely considered one of the best brown trout fisheries east of the Rocky Mountains. You may also encounter rainbow trout in some stretches.
Can you kayak the North Branch of the Au Sable?
Yes — the North Branch is excellent kayak and canoe water. It's a narrow, winding river with a gentle current, sandy bottom, and overhanging cedars. Two launch sites provide access in Crawford County. This is small-water paddling, not wide-open lake paddling.
Can you use a motorboat on the North Branch of the Au Sable?
No. The North Branch is a narrow, shallow river — it's canoe, kayak, and drift boat water only. There are motor restrictions on much of the Au Sable system to protect the trout fishery and river habitat.
Where is the North Branch of the Au Sable River?
The North Branch flows through Crawford County in Michigan's Northern Lower Peninsula. It joins the mainstream Au Sable River, which continues southeast for 138 miles to Lake Huron at Oscoda. The town of Grayling is the nearest hub for services and outfitters.
Is there camping near the North Branch of the Au Sable?
Yes — there are campgrounds along the Au Sable River system in the area. Crawford County has multiple state forest campgrounds and private campgrounds that cater to river users. Many are rustic, riverside sites accessible by canoe.
Can you swim in the North Branch of the Au Sable?
You can wade and cool off, but this isn't swimming-hole water in the traditional sense. The river is cold, narrow, and shallow in most spots. Beach access points along the Au Sable exist nearby for more traditional river swimming.
Is there a fee to launch on the North Branch of the Au Sable?
Public access sites on the Au Sable system in Crawford County are typically free, though some may require a Michigan Recreation Passport on your vehicle. Check signage at each launch point.
What is the Au Sable River named for?
The name comes from the French 'Rivière au sable,' meaning 'Sand River' — a reference to the sandy bottom that characterizes much of the river system. An older 1795 map labeled it the Beauais River.
Scout's Notes
Lake Vibe & Fishing Intel

The North Branch of the Au Sable River flows through Crawford County before joining the mainstream Au Sable — one of the most celebrated trout streams east of the Rockies. The full Au Sable runs 138 miles from its headwaters in the Northern Lower Peninsula southeast to Lake Huron at Oscoda. The North Branch is classic small-river water: narrow, shaded, sand-bottomed, and cold enough to support wild brook trout and brown trout year-round. The Michigan DNR designates the Au Sable system as a blue ribbon trout stream, and the North Branch is a key part of that reputation.

There are two launches in this stretch, and with a 5-star Google rating you're looking at well-maintained access points that cater mostly to kayakers, canoeists, and wade fishermen — not powerboats. This is drift-and-cast water. The North Branch Outing Club operates nearby as a private club with a long history tied to the river's trout fishing heritage. Crawford County is ground zero for Michigan fly fishing culture — Grayling sits just to the south, and the entire area revolves around the Au Sable system. If you're putting in here, bring a fly rod and expect sand, cedar, and quiet current.

Sources: Wikipedia, Google Reviews, DNR data, campground & beach reviews, ShorelineScout enrichment

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