Paddling The Upper Boardman River

The best of the Boardman is the Upper River that begins when two small streams, the North & South branches, converge near Supply Rd. & Brown Bridge Rd., about 15 miles Southeast of Traverse City.

Here, the river is narrow, quick, and shallow, averaging 15-20 feet wide and 2-4 feet deep. The riverbanks are mostly forested, with some open meadows and a few scattered cottages.

The final couple miles along the Upper stretch are quite open, and its banks are filling in with fresh growth as the ‘new’ river flows through the former Brown Bridge Pond area.

** Notice: Like Life, the Boardman River constantly ‘flows’ with change: the info. below is general, to the best of our knowledge, and always subject to change. Float times are approximate and may vary.

Be prepared for downed trees and varying conditions.

ALWAYS wear your life jacket: it’s your ‘seatbelt’ while traveling by water.

LAUNCHES

Note: Ranch Rudolf is located between Forks & Scheck’s, but there is NO public landing or launch. Ranch Rudolf is the only commercial livery permitted to operate on the Upper Boardman. The Michigan Department of Natural Resources (MDNR) does not allow commercial use on any of their launches or landings.