Join the Grand Traverse Humanists for a paddle trip up the little-known Betsie River tributary of Pickerel Creek! This creek is a particular favorite of the trip leader, Linnaea–it’s a beautiful area and feels very remote.

The launch is located at Grass Lake Campground. Details here: https://www2.dnr.state.mi.us/parksandtrails/details.aspx…

The creek has no current to speak of, so this will be an out and back paddle. No shuttle required, as we’ll paddle out and return the same way. To paddle the full distance, at one point it will be required to get out of your boat to get over a beaver dam. Linnaea will assist anyone that needs help. Those who do not wish to go over the dam can turn around at this point and could also explore the nearby Grass Lake.

A few pointers and safety tips are always good to keep in mind:
*Bring water, a change of clothes in a dry sack, sunscreen, a snack or sack lunch, and appropriate, securely fastened footwear that you don’t mind getting wet. Flip flops not recommended, and bare feet are unacceptable.
*Bring your PFD/flotation device. Even if you don’t wear it, you’ll need to have one with you.
*Children and dogs are welcome, but must be controlled. There is a lot of wildlife on this waterway, and we don’t want to disturb it any more than necessary!
*Don’t forget your paddle (and kayak/canoe)!
*MOST IMPORTANTLY: THERE’S NOWHERE TO STOP ON THIS RIVER! Therefore there is nowhere to get out and go to the bathroom! Plan accordingly. There is an outhouse at the launch site.
We’ll meet at the launch site at 2 PM. The launch is at the far east end of the campground.
Email Linnaea to RSVP.