Data Disclaimer: Water level data is provided by USGS and NOAA for informational purposes only. Verify conditions on-site before any water activities.
Learn more
I EasyII NoviceIII IntermediateIV AdvancedV Expert/ExtremeVI Unrunnable
Position relative to this access site:Put-in at this locationThis location is on the runTake-out at this location Downstream from hereUpstream from here
Maple Creek in Ironwood Township, Gogebic County offers a whitewater put-in for paddlers looking to access a medium-sized river system. This is a headwater stream located near the source of the watershed, with an elevation drop of 405 feet over 42 miles, resulting in a steep average gradient of 9.6 feet per mile. The stream order of 4 indicates this is a substantial flowing river rather than a small creek, though the average flow of 6.06 cubic feet per second and velocity of 0.96 feet per second should be considered when planning trips.
Paddlers using this put-in should expect moving water with moderate gradient. The high elevation gain relative to distance traveled means this section will have faster current than lower stretches downriver. Water conditions will be significantly influenced by recent rainfall and snowmelt, particularly important for a headwater stream in Michigan's Upper Peninsula. Spring and early summer typically provide the best water levels for whitewater paddling on such systems.