Clear, Swift and Fun: Kayaking the Big Sable River
Adventure and the experience of a lifetime are yours to keep kayaking the Big Sable River with family and friends. Navigating the Big Sable (AKA the Big Sauble) offers kayakers an immersive experience as the river winds its way through Manistee National Forest. Truly pristine, everyone will appreciate the beauty and serenity of the natural river environment in all its wild, wet glory.
As the River Flows, So Should You
Sauble River Kayaks offers access to an upper course and a lower course of the river. Each course offers a unique and winding passage through the wilds of Michigan. Spring-fed, the Big Sable River eco-system system offers a clear water experience with a swift river current and tons of wildlife ranging from otters, herons, bears, deer, eagles and more!
Although there is no whitewater, the current is strong and steady. In most sections of the river, however, one can stand without the current taking you downriver. The river is generally less than three feet deep, although some spots can run shallower and slower or deeper and faster depending on the season.
Some Physicality Required
For the best kayaking experience, a bit of muscle, a well-placed paddle and some anticipation will go a long way. The river is in a preservation area where "snags" and "strainers" as well as other obstructions can easily capsize a kayak and slow passage downriver. To safely navigate the Big Sable’s swift river current, downed trees and deep oxbow bends, steady, deliberate and occasionally aggressive paddling is required. Known to mariners as “Hazards to Navigation” potential challenges include large trees draped across the river, log jams clogging many river bends, large, submerged logs, and always a favorite, sub-surface branch stubs known as “tippers.”
Things to Bring for A Safe, Fun Paddling
Your muscles: This is an adventure for children older than 10 teens and fit adults of any age. Paddling the Big Sable for three or more hours requires strength, stamina and agility. This includes the ability to swim and the strength to lift, drag, carry, and portage your kayak short distances as well as assist others in distress.
Knowledge of the river and the area: It’s always best to know your launch location, launch / exit points along the course of the river, roads and their bridges, as well as points of interest along the river. Don’t forget to ask SRK staff for a simple map, current river conditions and the best places to stop for pictures and a swim.
Life jacket, bug spray and hydration: Although kayakers are welcome to bring whatever they might need for fun, life jackets are not strictly required. However, they are highly recommended. Most experienced kayakers wear life jackets regardless of river conditions. Properly fitted life jackets DO save lives! SRK provides mandated flotation devices to all kayakers.
Familiarity with boats and kayaks: Bow, stern, cockpit, seat, backrest, scupper, drain plug, foot pegs, drywell, carry handles. Not sure what’s which or how things work? Be sure to ask a friendly SRK staffer and don’t forget your paddle!
Kayaking and canoeing experience: Absolute beginners will be challenged on the Big Sable. However, with the assistance of an experienced kayaker, even the least skilled will have a fun, safe experience. Ask for a demonstration on how to get in and out of your kayak without tipping. Basic paddling and maneuvering techniques should be practiced in open water just after launching. Kayakers need to understand how to manage an efficient, repeating stroke, use the paddle to change direction, back paddle and reverse direction.
A float plan to leave behind: Whether a note on paper or a text sent to friend on your phone, leave behind a “float plan” with emergency contacts and phone numbers in case of emergency.
Prepare Yourself for Maximum Fun
Be prepared for the full river experience including getting wet, accidentally capsizing, portaging around strainers and snags, and assisting others recovering their kayaks. Though generally sandy, the muck can get deep, especially where water is still or if the bank is steep. Thinking about wearing your favorite flip-flops? Think again. Phone Service - Is limited at best. Phone service should not be relied upon. Anticipate your phone will get wet, if you bring it. Again, dry bags can help but do leave behind anything of real value-sentimental or otherwise.
Lastly No Littering Please.
In the Manistee National Forest visitors are strongly encouraged to "Leave no Trace." If you take it in, you take it out." and" Take only pictures, leave only puddles"; is a simple guide to enjoying the Big Sable!