— pulling live conditions from USGS —
Browse every tracked river, A–Z

Live float conditions for 62 Michigan rivers

Every river below is monitored through its USGS streamflow gauges, refreshed every 15 minutes and rated in plain language for kayak, canoe, raft and tube. Select a river for the live dashboard with current flow, trend, weather and community reports.

Au Sable River

Au Sable River is a mid-sized river in the Northern Lower region. Flows are dam-influenced — levels can jump with releases, so check the live gauge (and the generation schedule where posted) right before you launch. For kayaks and canoes the good float band at the Au Sable Near Red Oak (Upper / Grayling Reach) gauge runs roughly 590–970 cfs. Rafts want at least ~660 cfs. Tubing is best 410–680 cfs on warm days. Bands are estimated from long-term USGS flow percentiles — verify with local outfitters and American Whitewater before you commit.

Region: Northern Lower · Best for: Kayak & Canoe, Tubing, Rafting · USGS gauges: Au Sable near Red Oak (upper / Grayling reach), Au Sable at Mio, Au Sable near Curtisville (lower)

Live Au Sable River conditions →

Pere Marquette River

Pere Marquette River is a mid-sized river in the West Michigan region. Flows are dam-influenced — levels can jump with releases, so check the live gauge (and the generation schedule where posted) right before you launch. For kayaks and canoes the good float band at the Pere Marquette At Scottville gauge runs roughly 490–940 cfs. Rafts want at least ~560 cfs. Tubing is best 340–660 cfs on warm days. Bands are estimated from long-term USGS flow percentiles — verify with local outfitters and American Whitewater before you commit.

Region: West Michigan · Best for: Kayak & Canoe, Tubing, Rafting · USGS gauges: Pere Marquette at Scottville

Live Pere Marquette River conditions →

Upper Manistee River

Upper Manistee River is a small river in the Northern Lower region. Flows are dam-influenced — levels can jump with releases, so check the live gauge (and the generation schedule where posted) right before you launch. For kayaks and canoes the good float band at the Manistee Near Grayling (Wadeable Headwater) gauge runs roughly 170–220 cfs. It's generally too small to raft. Tubing is best 120–150 cfs on warm days. Bands are estimated from long-term USGS flow percentiles — verify with local outfitters and American Whitewater before you commit.

Region: Northern Lower · Best for: Kayak & Canoe, Tubing · USGS gauges: Manistee near Grayling (wadeable headwater), Manistee near Sherman (float water)

Live Upper Manistee River conditions →

Muskegon River

Muskegon River is a mid-sized river in the West Michigan region. Flows are dam-influenced — levels can jump with releases, so check the live gauge (and the generation schedule where posted) right before you launch. For kayaks and canoes the good float band at the Muskegon Near Croton gauge runs roughly 1,200–2,800 cfs. Rafts want at least ~1,500 cfs. Tubing is best 840–2,000 cfs on warm days. Bands are estimated from long-term USGS flow percentiles — verify with local outfitters and American Whitewater before you commit.

Region: West Michigan · Best for: Kayak & Canoe, Tubing, Rafting · USGS gauges: Muskegon near Croton

Live Muskegon River conditions →

Lower Manistee (below Tippy Dam)

Lower Manistee (below Tippy Dam) is a mid-sized river in the West Michigan region. Flows are dam-influenced — levels can jump with releases, so check the live gauge (and the generation schedule where posted) right before you launch. For kayaks and canoes the good float band at the Manistee Near Wellston (Tippy Tailwater) gauge runs roughly 1,400–2,000 cfs. Rafts want at least ~1,500 cfs. Tubing is best 980–1,400 cfs on warm days. Bands are estimated from long-term USGS flow percentiles — verify with local outfitters and American Whitewater before you commit.

Region: West Michigan · Best for: Kayak & Canoe, Tubing, Rafting · USGS gauges: Manistee near Wellston (Tippy tailwater)

Live Lower Manistee (below Tippy Dam) conditions →

South Branch Au Sable

South Branch Au Sable is a small river in the Northern Lower region. Flows are dam-influenced — levels can jump with releases, so check the live gauge (and the generation schedule where posted) right before you launch. For kayaks and canoes the good float band at the South Branch Near Luzerne (Mason Tract) gauge runs roughly 160–270 cfs. It's generally too small to raft. Tubing is best 110–190 cfs on warm days. Bands are estimated from long-term USGS flow percentiles — verify with local outfitters and American Whitewater before you commit.

Region: Northern Lower · Best for: Kayak & Canoe, Tubing · USGS gauges: South Branch near Luzerne (Mason Tract)

Live South Branch Au Sable conditions →

Huron River

Huron River is a small river in the Southeast region. Flows are dam-influenced — levels can jump with releases, so check the live gauge (and the generation schedule where posted) right before you launch. For kayaks and canoes the good float band at the Huron River Near Hamburg (Upper) gauge runs roughly 150–400 cfs. It's generally too small to raft. Tubing is best 100–280 cfs on warm days. Bands are estimated from long-term USGS flow percentiles — verify with local outfitters and American Whitewater before you commit.

Region: Southeast · Best for: Kayak & Canoe, Tubing · USGS gauges: Huron River near Hamburg (upper), Huron River at Ann Arbor

Live Huron River conditions →

Grand River

Grand River is a mid-sized river in the West Michigan region. Flows are dam-influenced — levels can jump with releases, so check the live gauge (and the generation schedule where posted) right before you launch. For kayaks and canoes the good float band at the Grand River At Ionia (Upper Smallmouth Reach) gauge runs roughly 580–3,800 cfs. Rafts want at least ~930 cfs. Tubing is best 410–2,400 cfs on warm days. Bands are estimated from long-term USGS flow percentiles — verify with local outfitters and American Whitewater before you commit.

Region: West Michigan · Best for: Kayak & Canoe, Tubing, Rafting · USGS gauges: Grand River at Ionia (upper smallmouth reach), Grand River at Grand Rapids

Live Grand River conditions →

North Branch Au Sable

North Branch Au Sable is a small river in the Northern Lower region. For kayaks and canoes the good float band at the North Branch At Kellogg Bridge Near Lovells gauge runs roughly 140–220 cfs. It's generally too small to raft. Tubing is best 100–150 cfs on warm days. Bands are estimated from long-term USGS flow percentiles — verify with local outfitters and American Whitewater before you commit.

Region: Northern Lower · Best for: Kayak & Canoe, Tubing · USGS gauges: North Branch at Kellogg Bridge near Lovells

Live North Branch Au Sable conditions →

Boardman / Ottaway River

Boardman / Ottaway River is a small river in the Northern Lower region. Flows are dam-influenced — levels can jump with releases, so check the live gauge (and the generation schedule where posted) right before you launch. For kayaks and canoes the good float band at the Boardman Above Brown Bridge Rd Near Mayfield gauge runs roughly 100–140 cfs. It's generally too small to raft. Tubing is best 70–100 cfs on warm days. Bands are estimated from long-term USGS flow percentiles — verify with local outfitters and American Whitewater before you commit.

Region: Northern Lower · Best for: Kayak & Canoe, Tubing · USGS gauges: Boardman above Brown Bridge Rd near Mayfield

Live Boardman / Ottaway River conditions →

Jordan River

Jordan River is a small river in the Northern Lower region. For kayaks and canoes the good float band at the Jordan Near East Jordan gauge runs roughly 170–220 cfs. It's generally too small to raft. Tubing is best 120–150 cfs on warm days. Bands are estimated from long-term USGS flow percentiles — verify with local outfitters and American Whitewater before you commit.

Region: Northern Lower · Best for: Kayak & Canoe, Tubing · USGS gauges: Jordan near East Jordan

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St. Joseph River

St. Joseph River is a large river in the Southwest region. Flows are dam-influenced — levels can jump with releases, so check the live gauge (and the generation schedule where posted) right before you launch. For kayaks and canoes the good float band at the St. Joseph River At Niles gauge runs roughly 1,700–5,500 cfs. Rafts want at least ~2,100 cfs. Tubing is best 1,200–3,800 cfs on warm days. Bands are estimated from long-term USGS flow percentiles — verify with local outfitters and American Whitewater before you commit.

Region: Southwest · Best for: Kayak & Canoe, Tubing, Rafting · USGS gauges: St. Joseph River at Niles

Live St. Joseph River conditions →

Sturgeon River

Sturgeon River is a small river in the Northern Lower region. For kayaks and canoes the good float band at the Sturgeon River At Wolverine gauge runs roughly 180–250 cfs. It's generally too small to raft. Tubing is best 130–180 cfs on warm days. Bands are estimated from long-term USGS flow percentiles — verify with local outfitters and American Whitewater before you commit.

Region: Northern Lower · Best for: Kayak & Canoe, Tubing · USGS gauges: Sturgeon River at Wolverine

Live Sturgeon River conditions →

Rogue River

Rogue River is a small river in the West Michigan region. Flows are dam-influenced — levels can jump with releases, so check the live gauge (and the generation schedule where posted) right before you launch. For kayaks and canoes the good float band at the Rogue River Near Rockford gauge runs roughly 160–340 cfs. It's generally too small to raft. Tubing is best 110–240 cfs on warm days. Bands are estimated from long-term USGS flow percentiles — verify with local outfitters and American Whitewater before you commit.

Region: West Michigan · Best for: Kayak & Canoe, Tubing · USGS gauges: Rogue River near Rockford

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Pigeon River

Pigeon River is a small creek in the Northern Lower region. Flows are dam-influenced — levels can jump with releases, so check the live gauge (and the generation schedule where posted) right before you launch. For kayaks and canoes the good float band at the Pigeon River Near Vanderbilt gauge runs roughly 80–100 cfs. It's generally too small to raft. Tubing is best 55–75 cfs on warm days. Bands are estimated from long-term USGS flow percentiles — verify with local outfitters and American Whitewater before you commit.

Region: Northern Lower · Best for: Kayak & Canoe, Tubing · USGS gauges: Pigeon River near Vanderbilt

Live Pigeon River conditions →

Kalamazoo River

Kalamazoo River is a mid-sized river in the Southwest region. Flows are dam-influenced — levels can jump with releases, so check the live gauge (and the generation schedule where posted) right before you launch. For kayaks and canoes the good float band at the Kalamazoo River At Comstock (Wadeable Reach) gauge runs roughly 470–1,500 cfs. Rafts want at least ~620 cfs. Tubing is best 330–1,000 cfs on warm days. Bands are estimated from long-term USGS flow percentiles — verify with local outfitters and American Whitewater before you commit.

Region: Southwest · Best for: Kayak & Canoe, Tubing, Rafting · USGS gauges: Kalamazoo River at Comstock (wadeable reach), Kalamazoo River near Allegan (lower)

Live Kalamazoo River conditions →

Menominee River

Menominee River is a mid-sized river in the Upper Peninsula region. Flows are dam-influenced — levels can jump with releases, so check the live gauge (and the generation schedule where posted) right before you launch. For kayaks and canoes the good float band at the Menominee River At Us Hwy-2 Near Iron Mountain, Mi gauge runs roughly 860–2,300 cfs. Rafts want at least ~1,100 cfs. Tubing is best 600–1,600 cfs on warm days. Bands are estimated from long-term USGS flow percentiles — verify with local outfitters and American Whitewater before you commit.

Region: Upper Peninsula · Best for: Kayak & Canoe, Tubing, Rafting · USGS gauges: Menominee River At Us Hwy-2 Near Iron Mountain, Mi, Menominee River Near Vulcan, Mi, Menominee River At White Rapids Dam Near Banat, Mi, Menominee River At Koss, Mi

Live Menominee River conditions →

Rifle River

Rifle River is a small river in the Northern Lower region. For kayaks and canoes the good float band at the Rifle River Near Sterling gauge runs roughly 200–350 cfs. It's generally too small to raft. Tubing is best 140–240 cfs on warm days. Bands are estimated from long-term USGS flow percentiles — verify with local outfitters and American Whitewater before you commit.

Region: Northern Lower · Best for: Kayak & Canoe, Tubing · USGS gauges: Rifle River near Sterling

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Clinton River & Paint Creek

Clinton River & Paint Creek is a small river in the Southeast region. Flows are dam-influenced — levels can jump with releases, so check the live gauge (and the generation schedule where posted) right before you launch. For kayaks and canoes the good float band at the Clinton River At Auburn Hills (Upper Wade Reach) gauge runs roughly 100–230 cfs. It's generally too small to raft. Tubing is best 70–140 cfs on warm days. Bands are estimated from long-term USGS flow percentiles — verify with local outfitters and American Whitewater before you commit.

Region: Southeast · Best for: Kayak & Canoe, Tubing · USGS gauges: Clinton River at Auburn Hills (upper wade reach), Clinton River at Mt. Clemens (lower)

Live Clinton River & Paint Creek conditions →

White River

White River is a mid-sized river in the West Michigan region. Flows are dam-influenced — levels can jump with releases, so check the live gauge (and the generation schedule where posted) right before you launch. For kayaks and canoes the good float band at the White River Near Whitehall gauge runs roughly 300–580 cfs. Rafts want at least ~350 cfs. Tubing is best 210–410 cfs on warm days. Bands are estimated from long-term USGS flow percentiles — verify with local outfitters and American Whitewater before you commit.

Region: West Michigan · Best for: Kayak & Canoe, Tubing, Rafting · USGS gauges: White River near Whitehall

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Escanaba River

Escanaba River is a small river in the Upper Peninsula region. Flows are dam-influenced — levels can jump with releases, so check the live gauge (and the generation schedule where posted) right before you launch. For kayaks and canoes the good float band at the Middle Branch Escanaba Near Princeton (Wadeable Trout) gauge runs roughly 100–210 cfs. It's generally too small to raft. Tubing is best 70–150 cfs on warm days. Bands are estimated from long-term USGS flow percentiles — verify with local outfitters and American Whitewater before you commit.

Region: Upper Peninsula · Best for: Kayak & Canoe, Tubing · USGS gauges: Middle Branch Escanaba near Princeton (wadeable trout), Escanaba River at Cornell (lower mainstem)

Live Escanaba River conditions →

Platte River

Platte River is a small river in the Northern Lower region. For kayaks and canoes the good float band at the Platte River At Honor, Mi gauge runs roughly 110–150 cfs. It's generally too small to raft. Tubing is best 75–100 cfs on warm days. Bands are estimated from long-term USGS flow percentiles — verify with local outfitters and American Whitewater before you commit.

Region: Northern Lower · Best for: Kayak & Canoe, Tubing · USGS gauges: Platte River At Honor, Mi

Live Platte River conditions →

Thornapple River

Thornapple River is a small river in the West Michigan region. Flows are dam-influenced — levels can jump with releases, so check the live gauge (and the generation schedule where posted) right before you launch. For kayaks and canoes the good float band at the Thornapple River Near Hastings gauge runs roughly 160–520 cfs. It's generally too small to raft. Tubing is best 110–360 cfs on warm days. Bands are estimated from long-term USGS flow percentiles — verify with local outfitters and American Whitewater before you commit.

Region: West Michigan · Best for: Kayak & Canoe, Tubing · USGS gauges: Thornapple River near Hastings

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Ontonagon River

Ontonagon River is a mid-sized river in the Upper Peninsula region. For kayaks and canoes the good float band at the Ontonagon River Near Rockland, Mi gauge runs roughly 510–1,400 cfs. Rafts want at least ~650 cfs. Tubing is best 360–980 cfs on warm days. Bands are estimated from long-term USGS flow percentiles — verify with local outfitters and American Whitewater before you commit.

Region: Upper Peninsula · Best for: Kayak & Canoe, Tubing, Rafting · USGS gauges: Ontonagon River Near Rockland, Mi, Middle Branch Ontonagon River Near Paulding, Mi, West Branch Ontonagon River Near Bergland, Mi

Live Ontonagon River conditions →

Tahquamenon River

Tahquamenon River is a mid-sized river in the Upper Peninsula region. For kayaks and canoes the good float band at the Tahquamenon River Near Paradise gauge runs roughly 350–1,000 cfs. Rafts want at least ~410 cfs. Tubing is best 240–700 cfs on warm days. Bands are estimated from long-term USGS flow percentiles — verify with local outfitters and American Whitewater before you commit.

Region: Upper Peninsula · Best for: Kayak & Canoe, Tubing, Rafting · USGS gauges: Tahquamenon River near Paradise

Live Tahquamenon River conditions →

Tittabawassee River

Tittabawassee River is a mid-sized river in the Saginaw / Thumb region. Flows are dam-influenced — levels can jump with releases, so check the live gauge (and the generation schedule where posted) right before you launch. For kayaks and canoes the good float band at the Tittabawassee River At Midland, Mi gauge runs roughly 490–2,600 cfs. Rafts want at least ~710 cfs. Tubing is best 340–1,700 cfs on warm days. Bands are estimated from long-term USGS flow percentiles — verify with local outfitters and American Whitewater before you commit.

Region: Saginaw / Thumb · Best for: Kayak & Canoe, Tubing, Rafting · USGS gauges: Tittabawassee River At Midland, Mi, Tittabawassee River At Sanford, Mi, Tittabawassee River At Secord Dam Nr Gladwin, Mi

Live Tittabawassee River conditions →

Pine River (Manistee)

Pine River (Manistee) is a small river in the Northern Lower region. For kayaks and canoes the good float band at the Pine River At High School Bridge Nr Hoxeyville, Mi gauge runs roughly 230–310 cfs. Rafts want at least ~350 cfs. Tubing is best 160–220 cfs on warm days. Bands are estimated from long-term USGS flow percentiles — verify with local outfitters and American Whitewater before you commit.

Region: Northern Lower · Best for: Kayak & Canoe, Tubing, Rafting · USGS gauges: Pine River At High School Bridge Nr Hoxeyville, Mi, East Branch Pine River Near Tustin, Mi

Live Pine River (Manistee) conditions →

Manistique River

Manistique River is a mid-sized river in the Upper Peninsula region. Flows are dam-influenced — levels can jump with releases, so check the live gauge (and the generation schedule where posted) right before you launch. For kayaks and canoes the good float band at the Manistique River Near Manistique, Mi gauge runs roughly 650–1,600 cfs. Rafts want at least ~770 cfs. Tubing is best 450–1,100 cfs on warm days. Bands are estimated from long-term USGS flow percentiles — verify with local outfitters and American Whitewater before you commit.

Region: Upper Peninsula · Best for: Kayak & Canoe, Tubing, Rafting · USGS gauges: Manistique River Near Manistique, Mi

Live Manistique River conditions →

Cass River

Cass River is a small creek in the Saginaw / Thumb region. For kayaks and canoes the good float band at the Cass River At Cass City (Upper) gauge runs roughly 170–360 cfs. It's generally too small to raft. Tubing is best 120–170 cfs on warm days. Bands are estimated from long-term USGS flow percentiles — verify with local outfitters and American Whitewater before you commit.

Region: Saginaw / Thumb · Best for: Kayak & Canoe, Tubing · USGS gauges: Cass River at Cass City (upper), Cass River at Frankenmuth

Live Cass River conditions →

Presque Isle River

Presque Isle River is a small river in the Upper Peninsula region. For kayaks and canoes the good float band at the Presque Isle River Near Connorville, Mi gauge runs roughly 100–400 cfs. It's generally too small to raft. Tubing is best 70–240 cfs on warm days. Bands are estimated from long-term USGS flow percentiles — verify with local outfitters and American Whitewater before you commit.

Region: Upper Peninsula · Best for: Kayak & Canoe, Tubing · USGS gauges: Presque Isle River Near Connorville, Mi

Live Presque Isle River conditions →

Sturgeon River (Baraga)

Sturgeon River (Baraga) is a small creek in the Upper Peninsula region. For kayaks and canoes the good float band at the Sturgeon River Near Sidnaw, Mi gauge runs roughly 160–250 cfs. It's generally too small to raft. Tubing is best 110–160 cfs on warm days. Bands are estimated from long-term USGS flow percentiles — verify with local outfitters and American Whitewater before you commit.

Region: Upper Peninsula · Best for: Kayak & Canoe, Tubing · USGS gauges: Sturgeon River Near Sidnaw, Mi, Sturgeon River Near Alston, Mi

Live Sturgeon River (Baraga) conditions →

Flint River

Flint River is a small river in the Saginaw / Thumb region. For kayaks and canoes the good float band at the Flint River Near Otisville, Mi gauge runs roughly 120–640 cfs. It's generally too small to raft. Tubing is best 85–390 cfs on warm days. Bands are estimated from long-term USGS flow percentiles — verify with local outfitters and American Whitewater before you commit.

Region: Saginaw / Thumb · Best for: Kayak & Canoe, Tubing · USGS gauges: Flint River Near Otisville, Mi, Flint River Near Flint, Mi, Flint River Near Fosters, Mi

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Michigamme River

Michigamme River is a mid-sized river in the Upper Peninsula region. For kayaks and canoes the good float band at the Michigamme River Near Crystal Falls, Mi gauge runs roughly 230–1,200 cfs. Rafts want at least ~400 cfs. Tubing is best 160–760 cfs on warm days. Bands are estimated from long-term USGS flow percentiles — verify with local outfitters and American Whitewater before you commit.

Region: Upper Peninsula · Best for: Kayak & Canoe, Tubing, Rafting · USGS gauges: Michigamme River Near Crystal Falls, Mi

Live Michigamme River conditions →

Shiawassee River

Shiawassee River is a small river in the Saginaw / Thumb region. For kayaks and canoes the good float band at the Shiawassee River At Owosso, Mi gauge runs roughly 140–620 cfs. It's generally too small to raft. Tubing is best 100–400 cfs on warm days. Bands are estimated from long-term USGS flow percentiles — verify with local outfitters and American Whitewater before you commit.

Region: Saginaw / Thumb · Best for: Kayak & Canoe, Tubing · USGS gauges: Shiawassee River At Owosso, Mi, Shiawassee River Near Fergus, Mi

Live Shiawassee River conditions →

Dowagiac River

Dowagiac River is a small river in the Southwest region. For kayaks and canoes the good float band at the Dowagiac River At Sumnerville, Mi gauge runs roughly 240–430 cfs. Rafts want at least ~350 cfs. Tubing is best 170–300 cfs on warm days. Bands are estimated from long-term USGS flow percentiles — verify with local outfitters and American Whitewater before you commit.

Region: Southwest · Best for: Kayak & Canoe, Tubing, Rafting · USGS gauges: Dowagiac River At Sumnerville, Mi, Dowagiac River At State Hwy 51 Near Dowagiac, Mi

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Black River (Gogebic)

Black River (Gogebic) is a small creek in the Upper Peninsula region. For kayaks and canoes the good float band at the Black River Near Bessemer, Mi gauge runs roughly 160–240 cfs. It's generally too small to raft. Tubing is best 110–160 cfs on warm days. Bands are estimated from long-term USGS flow percentiles — verify with local outfitters and American Whitewater before you commit.

Region: Upper Peninsula · Best for: Kayak & Canoe, Tubing · USGS gauges: Black River Near Bessemer, Mi

Live Black River (Gogebic) conditions →

Paint River

Paint River is a small creek in the Upper Peninsula region. For kayaks and canoes the good float band at the Paint River Near Alpha, Mi gauge runs roughly 260–340 cfs. It's generally too small to raft. Tubing is best 180–240 cfs on warm days. Bands are estimated from long-term USGS flow percentiles — verify with local outfitters and American Whitewater before you commit.

Region: Upper Peninsula · Best for: Kayak & Canoe, Tubing · USGS gauges: Paint River Near Alpha, Mi

Live Paint River conditions →

Thunder Bay River

Thunder Bay River is a small river in the Northern Lower region. Flows are dam-influenced — levels can jump with releases, so check the live gauge (and the generation schedule where posted) right before you launch. For kayaks and canoes the good float band at the Thunder Bay River At Herron Road Near Bolton, Mi gauge runs roughly 320–600 cfs. Rafts want at least ~350 cfs. Tubing is best 220–420 cfs on warm days. Bands are estimated from long-term USGS flow percentiles — verify with local outfitters and American Whitewater before you commit.

Region: Northern Lower · Best for: Kayak & Canoe, Tubing, Rafting · USGS gauges: Thunder Bay River At Herron Road Near Bolton, Mi

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River Raisin

River Raisin is a small river in the Southeast region. For kayaks and canoes the good float band at the River Raisin Near Adrian, Mi gauge runs roughly 170–570 cfs. It's generally too small to raft. Tubing is best 120–390 cfs on warm days. Bands are estimated from long-term USGS flow percentiles — verify with local outfitters and American Whitewater before you commit.

Region: Southeast · Best for: Kayak & Canoe, Tubing · USGS gauges: River Raisin Near Adrian, Mi, River Raisin Near Monroe, Mi

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Dead River

Dead River is a small river in the Upper Peninsula region. Flows are dam-influenced — levels can jump with releases, so check the live gauge (and the generation schedule where posted) right before you launch. For kayaks and canoes the good float band at the Dead River At Marquette, Mi gauge runs roughly 140–360 cfs. It's generally too small to raft. Tubing is best 100–250 cfs on warm days. Bands are estimated from long-term USGS flow percentiles — verify with local outfitters and American Whitewater before you commit.

Region: Upper Peninsula · Best for: Kayak & Canoe, Tubing · USGS gauges: Dead River At Marquette, Mi

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Au Gres River

Au Gres River is a small creek in the Saginaw / Thumb region. For kayaks and canoes the good float band at the E Br Au Gres R At E Andrews Rd Nr Alabaster, Mi gauge runs roughly 70–90 cfs. It's generally too small to raft. Tubing is best 50–65 cfs on warm days. Bands are estimated from long-term USGS flow percentiles — verify with local outfitters and American Whitewater before you commit.

Region: Saginaw / Thumb · Best for: Kayak & Canoe, Tubing · USGS gauges: E Br Au Gres R At E Andrews Rd Nr Alabaster, Mi

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Ford River

Ford River is a small river in the Upper Peninsula region. For kayaks and canoes the good float band at the Ford River Near Hyde, Mi gauge runs roughly 100–440 cfs. It's generally too small to raft. Tubing is best 70–290 cfs on warm days. Bands are estimated from long-term USGS flow percentiles — verify with local outfitters and American Whitewater before you commit.

Region: Upper Peninsula · Best for: Kayak & Canoe, Tubing · USGS gauges: Ford River Near Hyde, Mi

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Chippewa River

Chippewa River is a small river in the Saginaw / Thumb region. For kayaks and canoes the good float band at the Chippewa River Near Mount Pleasant, Mi gauge runs roughly 200–440 cfs. Rafts want at least ~350 cfs. Tubing is best 140–310 cfs on warm days. Bands are estimated from long-term USGS flow percentiles — verify with local outfitters and American Whitewater before you commit.

Region: Saginaw / Thumb · Best for: Kayak & Canoe, Tubing, Rafting · USGS gauges: Chippewa River Near Mount Pleasant, Mi, Chippewa River At S Homer Rd Nr Midland

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Sturgeon River (Nahma)

Sturgeon River (Nahma) is a small river in the Upper Peninsula region. For kayaks and canoes the good float band at the Sturgeon River Near Nahma Junction, Mi gauge runs roughly 100–250 cfs. It's generally too small to raft. Tubing is best 70–180 cfs on warm days. Bands are estimated from long-term USGS flow percentiles — verify with local outfitters and American Whitewater before you commit.

Region: Upper Peninsula · Best for: Kayak & Canoe, Tubing · USGS gauges: Sturgeon River Near Nahma Junction, Mi

Live Sturgeon River (Nahma) conditions →

Little Muskegon River

Little Muskegon River is a small river in the West Michigan region. For kayaks and canoes the good float band at the Little Muskegon River Near Oak Grove, Mi gauge runs roughly 240–430 cfs. Rafts want at least ~350 cfs. Tubing is best 170–300 cfs on warm days. Bands are estimated from long-term USGS flow percentiles — verify with local outfitters and American Whitewater before you commit.

Region: West Michigan · Best for: Kayak & Canoe, Tubing, Rafting · USGS gauges: Little Muskegon River Near Oak Grove, Mi

Live Little Muskegon River conditions →

Paw Paw River

Paw Paw River is a mid-sized river in the Southwest region. For kayaks and canoes the good float band at the Paw Paw River At Riverside, Mi gauge runs roughly 280–670 cfs. Rafts want at least ~350 cfs. Tubing is best 200–470 cfs on warm days. Bands are estimated from long-term USGS flow percentiles — verify with local outfitters and American Whitewater before you commit.

Region: Southwest · Best for: Kayak & Canoe, Tubing, Rafting · USGS gauges: Paw Paw River At Riverside, Mi

Live Paw Paw River conditions →

Red Cedar River

Red Cedar River is a small creek in the Central Lower region. For kayaks and canoes the good float band at the Red Cedar River Near Williamston, Mi gauge runs roughly 120–180 cfs. It's generally too small to raft. Tubing is best 85–120 cfs on warm days. Bands are estimated from long-term USGS flow percentiles — verify with local outfitters and American Whitewater before you commit.

Region: Central Lower · Best for: Kayak & Canoe, Tubing · USGS gauges: Red Cedar River Near Williamston, Mi, Red Cedar River At East Lansing, Mi

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Iron River

Iron River is a small creek in the Upper Peninsula region. For kayaks and canoes the good float band at the Iron River At Caspian, Mi gauge runs roughly 80–100 cfs. It's generally too small to raft. Tubing is best 55–75 cfs on warm days. Bands are estimated from long-term USGS flow percentiles — verify with local outfitters and American Whitewater before you commit.

Region: Upper Peninsula · Best for: Kayak & Canoe, Tubing · USGS gauges: Iron River At Caspian, Mi

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Maple River

Maple River is a small river in the Central Lower region. For kayaks and canoes the good float band at the Maple River At Maple Rapids, Mi gauge runs roughly 100–650 cfs. It's generally too small to raft. Tubing is best 70–320 cfs on warm days. Bands are estimated from long-term USGS flow percentiles — verify with local outfitters and American Whitewater before you commit.

Region: Central Lower · Best for: Kayak & Canoe, Tubing · USGS gauges: Maple River At Maple Rapids, Mi

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Galien River

Galien River is a small creek in the Southwest region. For kayaks and canoes the good float band at the Galien River Near Sawyer, Mi gauge runs roughly 90–120 cfs. It's generally too small to raft. Tubing is best 65–85 cfs on warm days. Bands are estimated from long-term USGS flow percentiles — verify with local outfitters and American Whitewater before you commit.

Region: Southwest · Best for: Kayak & Canoe, Tubing · USGS gauges: Galien River Near Sawyer, Mi

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Cedar River

Cedar River is a small creek in the Upper Peninsula region. For kayaks and canoes the good float band at the Cedar River At County Road 366 Nr Cedar River, Mi gauge runs roughly 170–390 cfs. It's generally too small to raft. Tubing is best 120–170 cfs on warm days. Bands are estimated from long-term USGS flow percentiles — verify with local outfitters and American Whitewater before you commit.

Region: Upper Peninsula · Best for: Kayak & Canoe, Tubing · USGS gauges: Cedar River At County Road 366 Nr Cedar River, Mi

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Black River (South Haven)

Black River (South Haven) is a small creek in the Southwest region. For kayaks and canoes the good float band at the South Branch Black River Near Bangor, Mi gauge runs roughly 120–150 cfs. It's generally too small to raft. Tubing is best 85–110 cfs on warm days. Bands are estimated from long-term USGS flow percentiles — verify with local outfitters and American Whitewater before you commit.

Region: Southwest · Best for: Kayak & Canoe, Tubing · USGS gauges: South Branch Black River Near Bangor, Mi

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Salmon Trout River

Salmon Trout River is a small creek in the Upper Peninsula region. Flows are dam-influenced — levels can jump with releases, so check the live gauge (and the generation schedule where posted) right before you launch. For kayaks and canoes the good float band at the Salmon Trout River Near Big Bay, Mi gauge runs roughly 40–55 cfs. It's generally too small to raft. Tubing is best 30–40 cfs on warm days. Bands are estimated from long-term USGS flow percentiles — verify with local outfitters and American Whitewater before you commit.

Region: Upper Peninsula · Best for: Kayak & Canoe, Tubing · USGS gauges: Salmon Trout River Near Big Bay, Mi

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Clam River

Clam River is a small river in the Northern Lower region. For kayaks and canoes the good float band at the Clam River At Vogel Center, Mi gauge runs roughly 100–170 cfs. It's generally too small to raft. Tubing is best 70–120 cfs on warm days. Bands are estimated from long-term USGS flow percentiles — verify with local outfitters and American Whitewater before you commit.

Region: Northern Lower · Best for: Kayak & Canoe, Tubing · USGS gauges: Clam River At Vogel Center, Mi

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Pine River (Alma)

Pine River (Alma) is a small river in the Saginaw / Thumb region. For kayaks and canoes the good float band at the Pine River Near Midland, Mi gauge runs roughly 150–440 cfs. It's generally too small to raft. Tubing is best 100–310 cfs on warm days. Bands are estimated from long-term USGS flow percentiles — verify with local outfitters and American Whitewater before you commit.

Region: Saginaw / Thumb · Best for: Kayak & Canoe, Tubing · USGS gauges: Pine River Near Midland, Mi

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Looking Glass River

Looking Glass River is a small river in the Central Lower region. For kayaks and canoes the good float band at the Looking Glass River Near Eagle, Mi gauge runs roughly 100–350 cfs. It's generally too small to raft. Tubing is best 70–210 cfs on warm days. Bands are estimated from long-term USGS flow percentiles — verify with local outfitters and American Whitewater before you commit.

Region: Central Lower · Best for: Kayak & Canoe, Tubing · USGS gauges: Looking Glass River Near Eagle, Mi

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Tobacco River

Tobacco River is a small river in the Saginaw / Thumb region. For kayaks and canoes the good float band at the Tobacco River At Glidden Road At Beaverton, Mi gauge runs roughly 220–410 cfs. Rafts want at least ~350 cfs. Tubing is best 150–290 cfs on warm days. Bands are estimated from long-term USGS flow percentiles — verify with local outfitters and American Whitewater before you commit.

Region: Saginaw / Thumb · Best for: Kayak & Canoe, Tubing, Rafting · USGS gauges: Tobacco River At Glidden Road At Beaverton, Mi

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Portage River (Three Rivers)

Portage River (Three Rivers) is a small river in the Southwest region. For kayaks and canoes the good float band at the Portage River At Fifth Avenue At Three Rivers, Mi gauge runs roughly 100–290 cfs. It's generally too small to raft. Tubing is best 70–200 cfs on warm days. Bands are estimated from long-term USGS flow percentiles — verify with local outfitters and American Whitewater before you commit.

Region: Southwest · Best for: Kayak & Canoe, Tubing · USGS gauges: Portage River At Fifth Avenue At Three Rivers, Mi

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Prairie River

Prairie River is a small creek in the Southwest region. For kayaks and canoes the good float band at the Prairie River Near Nottawa, Mi gauge runs roughly 120–170 cfs. It's generally too small to raft. Tubing is best 85–120 cfs on warm days. Bands are estimated from long-term USGS flow percentiles — verify with local outfitters and American Whitewater before you commit.

Region: Southwest · Best for: Kayak & Canoe, Tubing · USGS gauges: Prairie River Near Nottawa, Mi

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Pigeon River (Thumb)

Pigeon River (Thumb) is a small creek in the Saginaw / Thumb region. For kayaks and canoes the good float band at the Pigeon River At Limerick Road Near Caseville, Mi gauge runs roughly 70–160 cfs. It's generally too small to raft. Tubing is best 50–70 cfs on warm days. Bands are estimated from long-term USGS flow percentiles — verify with local outfitters and American Whitewater before you commit.

Region: Saginaw / Thumb · Best for: Kayak & Canoe, Tubing · USGS gauges: Pigeon River At Limerick Road Near Caseville, Mi

Live Pigeon River (Thumb) conditions →

Saline River

Saline River is a small creek in the Southeast region. For kayaks and canoes the good float band at the Saline River Near Saline, Mi gauge runs roughly 60–85 cfs. It's generally too small to raft. Tubing is best 40–60 cfs on warm days. Bands are estimated from long-term USGS flow percentiles — verify with local outfitters and American Whitewater before you commit.

Region: Southeast · Best for: Kayak & Canoe, Tubing · USGS gauges: Saline River Near Saline, Mi

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Pinnebog River

Pinnebog River is a small creek in the Saginaw / Thumb region. For kayaks and canoes the good float band at the Pinnebog River At Kinde Rd Near Pinnebog, Mi gauge runs roughly 65–150 cfs. It's generally too small to raft. Tubing is best 45–65 cfs on warm days. Bands are estimated from long-term USGS flow percentiles — verify with local outfitters and American Whitewater before you commit.

Region: Saginaw / Thumb · Best for: Kayak & Canoe, Tubing · USGS gauges: Pinnebog River At Kinde Rd Near Pinnebog, Mi

Live Pinnebog River conditions →

Michigan river conditions — FAQ

How current is the Michigan river data?

Flow readings come straight from USGS gauges and refresh every 15 minutes. Every Michigan river shows the exact reading time for each gauge, so you always know how fresh the number is.

Which Michigan rivers are safe to float or paddle right now?

All 62 Michigan rivers we track are rated Wadeable, Caution, Limited, or Blown out against thresholds tuned to each individual gauge. Open the dashboard for a live top-to-bottom read of every river.

What does CFS mean for floating?

CFS — cubic feet per second — is how much water is moving past the gauge. Higher CFS means faster, deeper, pushier water. The safe range differs on every river, which is why each gauge carries its own thresholds rather than one blanket number.

How much rain fell on Michigan rivers, and how much is coming?

Each river page shows total observed rainfall over the last 48 hours plus the forecast for the next 48 hours at that gauge — the fastest way to tell whether the water is about to blow out or start clearing.

Do you cover my Michigan river?

We track 62 Michigan rivers behind live USGS gauges. Open any river for live conditions, species timing, public access points, and recent rainfall.