STAY SOBER 

• Operating a watercraft of any kind while intoxicated is illegal.

• Please, no more than one six pack of beer per canoe.

• Hard liquor, party balls, kegs, glass bottles, and styrofoam coolers are prohibited.

• We reserve the right to check coolers.

BE SAFE 

• Children under the age of six must wear life vests.  We provide life vests for all canoeists.

• Remember sunscreen and insect repellant.

• Leave valuables in the car and make sure your keys are secure. Gotts’ Landing sells floating key chains.

 DON’T LITTER 

• The Au Sable is a National Scenic river.  Please keep it clean for everyone.  Littering is punishable by a $400.00 fine.

• Use heavy coolers – not styrofoam!

• Leave plants and wildlife the way you found them.

 BE CONSIDERATE 

• Respect private property.  Don’t trespass, and stop only at public landings.

• There are many fishermen on the river.  Give them a wide berth, and pass them quietly.

• Leave loud radios and boom boxes at home.

• Don’t tie your canoes and rafts together – it is dangerous for fishermen, and makes it difficult for other paddlers to pass you.

Frequently Asked Questions

How deep is the  river?

It averages 2 to 3 feet.

How fast does the river flow? 

About 4 to 5 miles an hour with no white water.

Are picnic and camping areas available? 

Yes.  There are sites with water and rest rooms as well as primitive forest camping areas on the river.

What is the best trip? 

We recommend the 4 1/2 hour Mio to McKinley trip.

Is it safe for beginners?

It is fun and safe for all ages and levels of experience.

The policy of the United States Department of Agriculture Forest Service prohibits discrimination on the basis  of race, color,  national origin, age, religion, sex, disability, family status, and/or political affiliation.  Person believing that have been  discriminated against in any forest service related activity should write to:  Chief Forest  Service, USDA, P.O. Box 96090, Washington, DC 20090-6090.