Sturgeon River and Burt Lake - Rafting Northern Lower Michigan

All in the area know the Sturgeon River as the fastest river located in the lower peninsula of Michigan. With an average drop of fourteen feet every mile, it delivers an exciting raft or canoe trip. The Sturgeon is not a whitewater river, but is full of tricky turns and narrow passages. Logs, low overhanging trees and roots will test your abilities. As you maneuver through the clear water, you will find many natural obstacles that will challenge you as you make your way down the river. This will require that you stay alert even though you will be tempted to just sit back and let the current take you along. The river is not very deep, averaging 3-4 feet, and only 6-8 feet at its deepest point. It is very rapid, and is spring fed, so the water is cold. It is common to experience a tip-over in a canoe, but not in a raft. Regardless, you should plan to get wet.

Because the Sturgeon River passes through a state forest, there are many undeveloped areas. You will see wildlife along the way. Keep your eyes open for birds, deer and other little critters that build their homes in the northern Michigan forests. Sections of the route will carry you by lovely river cottages. Here you will enjoy "Venice-style" scenery and a cheerful "Hello" from locals enjoying the fresh air and watching all the water traffic.

My rafting trip was included in a Fall Color Nature Adventure offered by the Solace Spa. The Solace Spa is located at the Mountain Grand Lodge in Boyne Falls, Michigan. The Solace Spa is a full service spa and was named by Spa Magazine's Worldwide Spa Guide as one of the "Best Spas in the World". Solace Spa offers many seasonal and life inspiring packages. A stay in the Mountain Grand Lodge is not required to participate in any of the spa activities.

We were a group of 12, including Sean Handler, Solace Spa Director. As the event tour guide, he provided a great deal of local information during the 45-minute bus ride north to Indian River, completing the tour with a drive through the SoBo District of Boyne City.