Trip Overview
Indian Bridge State Forest Campground to Johnson Bridge (1.5 hours paddling solo but 2-2.5 hours with company I'm sure):
Access is down a steep set of stairs. Not ideal but not that bad either. Make sure you have bug spray on this river.
The stretch from Indian Bridge to Johnson Bridge is (to this point) my favorite stretch on the Little Manistee. The Canoeing Michigan Rivers book calls this Bridge 1 although Spencer Bridge and Old Grade Campground have access above this point. I have not done those stretches yet but will very soon.
This stretch goes through Manistee National Forest for a significant percentage of the trip and there are not very many houses because of this. The houses you do see are really nice.
I saw at least 20 salmon and the highlight was a land bridge with soil and trees growing on it for a very long time. The concrete on the bridge was stamped "1908". Apparently, the bridge was used for trains back in the logging days. I cannot confirm that information however.
Safety Notes
Aggressive draw strokes needed
Portage Notes
Zero portages on this trip but beginners could easily be forced to portage a time or two.
Trip Details
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Trip Dates:
8/23/2024
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Sport/Activity:
Kayaking
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Skill Level:
Intermediate
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Water Type:
River/Creek (Up to Class II)
