East and West River Trails in Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park – August 15, 2012
The East and West River Trail Loop ranks as one of the top short hikes in the state of Michigan. This 2 mile loop follows along the banks of the Presque Isle River as is plunges in spectacular fashion down to Lake Superior in it’s final mile. Along this route there are 3 major waterfalls and several other smaller falls and rapids. The water was pretty low on our hike in August. This made for smaller falls, but it allows you to get a good look at all of the interesting rock formations in the river. Looking at the river bed I can imagine that in the spring this area is really roaring.
We were staying at the Union Bay Campground and from there it takes a 25 mile drive around the outside of the park on South Boundary Road to get to the Presque Isle River Scenic Area. At this end of the park there is a 50 site rustic campground and a day use picnic area at the trailhead with a shelter and pit toilets.
The East and West River Trails can be made into a loop by using the suspension bridge shown above and the vehicle bridge on South Boundary Road that you cross on the way in.
The amazing scenery starts off with the view of the kettles or potholes area from the suspension bridge.
Reid ready for a ride in the back carrier.
A family pic before heading up the bank to the East River Trail.
Looking upstream from just above the kettles area.
Heading up the bank to the East River Trail.
Manabezho Falls from the East River Trail.
Some rough climbing along the East side of the river.
Taking a break near Nawadaha Falls.
Nawadaha Falls from the East River Trail.
Further along the east bank of the Presque Isle River.
One of the old timers near the end of the East River Trail. (Sorry for the bad photo)
Going down a rough section on the West River Trail.
Nawadaha Falls from the other side of the Presque Isle River.
Yes, we let them dress themselves.
Manido Falls.
The last section of the West River Trail has several sections of boardwalks and stairs near the end. The short 2 mile loop took our family just over 2 hours to complete. It could probably be done in just over an hour, but we decided to take it slow and enjoy the great views that we found at almost every step along the way.
We first saw this hike in our Best Hikes with Children in Michigan
After eating we went back across the suspension bridge and took the short trail down the rocky beach where the Presque Isle River empties into Lake Superior.
After the hike it felt good to soak our feet in the cool water, but it was getting warm and before too long we were all swimming in our clothes. If we would have taken our beach supplies we could have easily spent the rest of the afternoon here.
Porcupine Mountain Wilderness State Park Trail Map >>
Directions to the trailhead >>
If you are going to be outside hiking with children under 3 years old a good backpack carrier is a must. We started with a cheap off brand carrier, but quickly realized we needed to upgrade to the Kelty. The adjustable hip belt on the Kelty was the only one we found that was long enough for taller people. The integrated sun shade and side screen also helps keep the bugs off your little hiker.
Search for Kelty Child Carriers on Amazon >>
Advertising Disclosure: We may receive a commission if you click a link on our site and purchase one of the products or services that we recommend.
Leave a Reply