Sturgeon River (LP)
🍃 Natural River
Otsego / Cheboygan Co. · 45 mi · Class I–II
—CFS
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Optimal: 150–600 CFS · USGS #04131980
⚡Flow data is live from USGS·Rapid classifications and CFS ranges need community verification·Know this river?
45 mi
Length
Class I–II
Difficulty
150–600 cfs
Optimal
260 cfs
Avg Flow
234 cfs
Hist. Median
#04131980
USGS Gauge
Michigan Natural River

The fastest river in the Lower Peninsula with good current and Class I-II water that can challenge beginners. A scenic, forested paddle through the northern LP with reliable flow and a reputation for swift water. Designated a Michigan Natural River, the 45-mile run from Wolverine to Burt Lake features its fastest water through state forest above Rondo.

Trip sections
Upper — Wolverine to Rondo, fast current through state forest
Lower — Rondo to Burt Lake, gentler but still moving
Outfitters
Sturgeon River Paddlesports
Canoe and kayak rentals in Wolverine
72-Hour Flow Forecast
NOAA NWPS
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10-Year Flow Patterns
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Your Optimal Range
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Data Quality

River conditions are community-verified. CFS ranges, difficulty ratings, and trip sections may not reflect every flow level or seasonal change. Always check current conditions, scout unfamiliar rapids, and paddle within your skill level. If you spot an error, use the Improve This River button at the top of the page — your local knowledge is what makes this atlas accurate.