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North Country Trail: Au Sable River Section

Huron-Manistee National Forests, Michigan · 3 min read

Distance
9 mi
Elevation Gain
350 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
Developed
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Conditions, regulations, and fees change frequently. Verify with the local ranger district before your trip. Full disclaimer

At a Glance

  • Au Sable River, Michigan's most famous wild trout stream
  • North Country National Scenic Trail through jack pine and mixed forest
  • National Wild and Scenic River designation on the upper Au Sable
  • Fly fishing for brown trout and brook trout throughout the season
  • Lumbermen's Monument nearby for a historical side trip

Overview

The Au Sable River section of the North Country Trail offers a riverside experience along one of Huron-Manistee National Forests' most storied waterways. The 9-mile out-and-back follows the NCT through jack pine and mixed hardwood forest along the river corridor, with consistent access to the water and excellent fly fishing throughout. The Au Sable runs clear and cold over sand and gravel, and the forest along its banks is protected within the Huron unit's extensive trail network.

No permit is required.

The Route

Miles 0 to 3.0: Keystone Landing to Canoe Harbor. The NCT departs the Keystone Landing trailhead along the south bank of the Au Sable. The forest is jack pine with a mix of northern hardwoods in the wetter bottom areas near the water. The river is accessible at several points with flat sand bars suitable for fishing.

Miles 3.0 to 4.5: Canoe Harbor to river bend. The trail passes the Canoe Harbor canoe launch area and continues downstream along a more heavily wooded section. The river bends here and a broad pool forms below a gravel bar: excellent fly fishing territory. Common sightings include great blue herons, belted kingfishers, and bald eagles fishing the river.

Miles 4.5: Turnaround. Most day hikers turn around near a prominent river bend with views upstream and downstream. The NCT continues beyond to connect eventually to other parts of the Huron unit.

When to Hike

May through September for fishing. The Au Sable opens for fishing in late April; the best fly fishing is typically May through June and again in September.

October for fall color in the hardwood sections and the end-of-season fishing.

What to Bring

Many hikers carry 1.5 liters of water. River water is available but should be treated. Fishing gear strongly recommended for any angler. Waders and fly rod for serious Au Sable fishing.

Trailhead Access

Canoe Harbor Road from M-72 east of Mio, about 5 miles. Paved road to the trailhead area.

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 Lumbermen's Monument Trail is a short historical walk near this section of the river. The Mason Tract Pathway is another Au Sable river hike in the Huron unit. Follow Leave No Trace principles along the Wild and Scenic River corridor.

Trailhead Parking

Keystone Landing Trailhead on Canoe Harbor Road, south of Mio. Paved parking area near the Au Sable River. No fee.

← Back to Huron-Manistee National Forests

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I fish on the Au Sable from this trail?
Yes. The Au Sable is a National Wild and Scenic River and one of Michigan's premier fly fishing streams. Brown trout and brook trout are the primary targets throughout the season; rainbow trout are also present. Michigan fishing regulations include special regulations on portions of the Au Sable including fly-fishing-only and catch-and-release sections. Check Michigan DNR regulations before fishing (as of 2026).
Is the Au Sable River trail good for beginning hikers?
The Au Sable River section of the NCT is one of the gentler options in the Huron unit, with minimal elevation change and a well-maintained trail. The 9-mile out-and-back can be shortened significantly by turning around earlier. The section from Keystone Landing south to Mio Pond (about 3 miles each way) is accessible for most fitness levels.
What is the Au Sable River known for historically?
The Au Sable River valley was the center of Michigan's 19th-century timber industry and later became one of the foundational destinations in American fly fishing history. The river's clarity, cold temperature, and strong trout populations drew fly fishers in the early 20th century and inspired techniques still used today. The Lumbermen's Monument near Mio commemorates the logging era that preceded the national forest designation.