Stephans Bridge Boat Launch

There's no actual boat ramp here — no concrete, no lanes. This is a carry-in spot for kayaks, canoes, and small inflatables. Don't show up with a trailered boat expecting to back in.

There are two separate spots along the bank to get on or off the river, which keeps things moving even when a livery group is piling out. Makes a huge difference on Saturday afternoons in July.

Most paddlers use this as either a put-in heading downstream to Parmalee Bridge or a takeout coming from Burton's Landing (roughly a two-hour float). It's a well-established waypoint on the Au Sable, so expect company on summer weekends.

Eight trailer spots on paper, but since almost nobody's trailering here, the lot handles a solid number of cars with roof-rack boats. I've never seen it completely full, even on holiday weekends, though it gets snug by mid-morning in peak season.

If you're wading the Au Sable for trout, this is a legit access point with easy entry to the water. The bank is manageable and the river bottom here is firm enough to wade without sinking in muck.