These storied lodging destinations have been welcoming generations of travelers to find peace and adventure along the legendary Au Sable river.
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The Au Sable is one of the best-known rivers in Michigan, and one of the finest trout streams in the Midwest. It flows more than 100 miles between Grayling and Oscoda, winding through dense coniferous forest and past sandy bluffs and wetlands to Lake Huron, with scenic views always waiting just around the bend. Book a room and experience it for yourself.
Photo by North Branch Outing Club
Historic Fly-Fishing Lodge: North Branch Outing Club
Since 1916, visitors from around the world have traveled to the North Branch Outing Club to fish for trout on the North Branch of the Au Sable.
At the turn of the century, the historic lodge overlooking 400 feet of shoreline, was known as the Douglas Hotel. Owned by lumber baron T.E. Douglas, the hotel welcomed some of the time’s most influential people—Henry and Edsel Ford, the Dodge brothers, John D. Rockefeller, Harvey Firestone, Thomas Edison and Ernest Hemingway—to fish and dine in the lavish Northwoods retreat.
Guests today at the two-story inn are warmly reminded of the bygone era: old fishing nets hang on the walls beside wicker creels, wildlife carvings and historical photos. Down at the river’s banks, you might spot bald eagles, osprey, muskrats and mink, along with another reminder of days gone by—Au Sable longboats.
The long (typically 24 feet), shallow-bottom boats were first built in the 1870s and are still used today. The craft is pushed by a pole from the stern, and allowed lumber companies to move tools and equipment up and down the narrow, twisting river system. The design, which has remained basically unchanged over the last century, also allows fly fishers to quietly approach trout while maneuvering in tight spots. Fishing from one of these Au Sable longboats is a truly a one-of-a-kind experience.
Photo by North Branch Outing Club
Photo by North Branch Outing Club
Family-Friendly Getaway: Borchers Bed & Breakfast
Borchers has been a destination for paddlers on the Au Sable for nearly 90 years, since opening in Grayling in 1936. It’s owners, Abigail and Justin Davis, understand the allure. For years, Abigail and her family made the four-hour drive from their home in Fort Wayne, Indiana, to Grayling, Michigan. The trips to the riverside B&B began in high school, and like so many others, “We loved it so much it became an annual tradition,” Abigail says. More than a decade later, Abigail and her husband Justin still make the trek to Borchers; only now, it’s home, and it’s just a walk across the lawn.
Guests also know the charm of the place, but if you haven’t visited before, picture this: a quaint, four-room B&B tucked on nearly two acres with 130 feet of water frontage and an on-site livery. The two larger rooms overlook the river and each has a second-story balcony that’s a treat on warm evenings. There’s a big yard with picnic tables and fire pits. Breakfasts are served family-style, the table set in front of a wood-burning fireplace. You can spend a few hours paddling then walk six blocks to downtown and grab a bite or brew.
If you don’t want to spend the night but are looking for a beautiful paddling day trip, Justin and Abigail recommend the eight-mile stretch between Borchers and Burtons Landing. It takes between two and two-and-a-half hours to paddle, is very family-friendly and it’s easy to stop along the way for a picnic or to use the restroom. The Borchers team will pick you up at the end and take you back to your car. There are plenty of options for longer paddles, including multi-night camping trips, too.
Photo by Dave Weidner