Sturgeon (Baraga)

NOTE regarding gauge ranges: We do not have first-hand awareness of runnable levels, thus ALL COLOR CODING and ALL GAUGE RANGES ARE TENTATIVE! We need your input! Create a 'Trip Report' stating listed flow and your impressions (low/moderate/high).

The principal attraction to this reach lies within the first mile and a half, through the sequence of ledges known as Tibbets Falls. From the Plains Rd bridge, boulderbed rapids increase as they lead to the 'falls' proper. The largest ledge is only around 4-5' in height (so this is really more a rapids than a true falls), but can generate a wicked hydraulic at higher flows. A steep 'S' turn rapid finishes the sequence, followed by boulderbed that eases off into little more than miles and miles of moving water.

There is parking and a riverside trail (river-right along the whole first 1.5 miles) to access Tibbetts Falls for viewing, scouting, and take-out if a short trip including just the falls is desired. This access/take-out point may be reached by driving north from the listed put-in and turning onto the first dirt road to the left (less than 1/2 mile). From here, look for the second two track road to the left, turn and drive to a small parking area at the end. There is a trail which leads down to the river at this point. In early season expect this road will be impassible or 4WD only.

Beyond the initial (1.2 mile) sequence, the remainder of the reach is primarily flat, with class I-II boulder bed encountered in the final mile or so. Take-out is at Sturgeon Gorge Road Campground or a pull-off just beyond (if campground is closed and impassible).