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Mason Tract Pathway

Huron-Manistee National Forests, Michigan · 3 min read

Distance
7 mi
Elevation Gain
200 ft
Difficulty
moderate
Route Type
Out-And-Back
Best Season
May through October
Dog Friendly
Yes
Difficulty Score
5 / 10

Trailhead Amenities

Restroom
Vault Toilet
Parking
Free
Cell Service
Limited
Water
Nearby
Camping
None
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Conditions, regulations, and fees change frequently. Verify with the local ranger district before your trip. Full disclaimer

At a Glance

  • South Branch Au Sable River, one of Michigan's premier fly fishing streams
  • Mason Tract, donated to the state and now managed for conservation
  • Old-growth jack pine and white pine in the river corridor
  • Exceptional clarity and cold temperatures of the South Branch
  • Quiet pathway with limited off-trail development throughout

Overview

The Mason Tract Pathway is a quiet river walk along the South Branch Au Sable River in the Huron unit of Huron-Manistee National Forests. The 7-mile out-and-back follows the river corridor through jack pine and white pine forest donated to conservation by George Mason in the 1950s. The South Branch is narrower and more intimate than the main Au Sable, a classic Michigan trout stream flowing through a pine-and-cedar valley that feels unchanged from the early 20th century.

No permit required.

The Route

Miles 0 to 2.0: Chase Bridge to Canoe Harbor. The pathway departs Chase Bridge along the east bank of the South Branch. The river is immediately present, running clear over sand and fine gravel. Old white pine and jack pine line the high banks. Fly fishers work the river throughout the season; the Mason Tract is well known in Michigan's fly fishing community.

Miles 2.0 to 3.5: Deep river bend section. The pathway enters the most remote section of the tract, where the river bends away from any road access and the forest closes around both banks. River otter, mink, and belted kingfisher are regularly seen here. The old-growth pine on the inside bends are particularly fine.

Mile 3.5: Turnaround. The pathway meets a downstream access point. Most day hikers turn around here for the return.

When to Hike

May and June for spring fishing and wildflowers. September and October for fall fishing and color.

What to Bring

Many hikers carry 1.5 liters of water. Fishing gear recommended. Waders for anglers.

Trailhead Access

Chase Bridge Road from M-76 south of Roscommon. About 20 miles from Grayling.

Practical Details

No permit is required for day hiking on this trail. Dogs are welcome on leash. Vault restrooms are available at the trailhead. Water sources are present along the trail but require treatment before drinking. Cell service is limited in this area; downloading offline maps before your visit is recommended.

The recommended season for this trail is May through October. Conditions outside this window may include challenging weather, trail closures, or reduced accessibility. Always verify current conditions with the Huron-Manistee National Forests ranger district before visiting, particularly at the beginning and end of the recommended season when conditions are most variable.

Before any visit, review the Leave No Trace seven principles and our checking conditions guide for current fire restrictions, trail closures, and ranger district advisories. The America the Beautiful pass covers day use fees at developed recreation areas where applicable. Veterans and active military have additional access options covered in our veteran benefits guide.

Nearby

The North Country Trail: Au Sable River is on the main branch of the Au Sable downstream. The Lumbermen's Monument Trail is a historical walk in the same watershed. Follow Leave No Trace principles on this conservation corridor.

Trailhead Parking

Mason Tract Pathway trailhead on Chase Bridge Road south of Roscommon. Paved parking area. No fee.

← Back to Huron-Manistee National Forests

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Mason Tract?
The Mason Tract is a stretch of South Branch Au Sable River corridor donated by George Mason, a prominent Michigan conservationist and former AMC Rambler automobile company president, to the State of Michigan in the 1950s. Mason's intent was to protect the river corridor from development and maintain it as a premium fly fishing destination. The tract is now managed cooperatively between Michigan DNR and the U.S. Forest Service as part of the Huron-Manistee National Forests.
Is the Mason Tract fly fishing only?
The South Branch Au Sable in the Mason Tract has special regulations including fly fishing only and catch-and-release requirements on certain reaches. Check current Michigan DNR regulations before fishing (as of 2026). The regulations protect the wild brown trout population and maintain the quality of the fishery. Wading is common on the South Branch; it is relatively shallow and wadeable in most conditions.
Are dogs allowed on the Mason Tract Pathway?
Dogs are permitted on leash on the Mason Tract Pathway. The trail follows the river on a natural surface path. The river is accessible at multiple points; swimming with dogs is possible in the slower river sections. Keep dogs leashed to minimize disturbance to wildlife and other visitors, particularly anglers on the river.