The South Branch is one of several major tributaries of the Ontonagon River, which flows 25 miles north to Lake Superior at the village of Ontonagon. The river system includes the East Branch, Middle Branch, and West Branch as well, all converging to form the main stem. The watershed drains a large swath of the western Upper Peninsula's forested interior.
Where is the South Branch of the Ontonagon River?
Can you launch a boat on the South Branch of the Ontonagon River?
What fish are in the South Branch of the Ontonagon River?
Is the Ontonagon River a Wild and Scenic River?
Are there waterfalls near the South Branch of the Ontonagon River?
Is the South Branch of the Ontonagon River good for kayaking or canoeing?
The South Branch of the Ontonagon River is one of several major tributaries that feed the Ontonagon River system in Michigan's western Upper Peninsula. The main stem of the Ontonagon runs 25 miles to Lake Superior at the village of Ontonagon, but the branches extend much farther into the rugged, forested interior of Ontonagon County. Portions of the river system carry National Wild and Scenic River designation, and the watershed is home to notable waterfalls including Bond Falls and Agate Falls. This is remote, wild country — expect limited development along the shoreline and genuine Upper Peninsula solitude.
The South Branch access point is one of just a handful of launch options on this river system. It's primarily a paddling and fishing river rather than a powerboat waterway — expect shallow stretches, current, and rocky substrate. The river holds brook trout, brown trout, and steelhead depending on the reach and season, with spring and fall runs drawing anglers from across the U.P. If you're launching here, you're looking for backcountry river experience, not a day at the lake.