Henry David Thoreau said it best: “Everyone must believe in something. I believe I’ll go canoeing.”
For all those Michiganders who have taken Thoreau’s advice (or even those who think it a wise idea) author Doc Fletcher’s got the guide for you: Weekend Canoeing in Michigan: The Rivers, The Towns, The Taverns. From the Ontonagon River in the western Upper Peninsula to the Huron River in southeastern Lower Michigan, Doc gives you the information and the desire to take up your paddles on twenty adventures down rivers across the state of Michigan.
For the casual canoeist looking for a fun two- to four-hour trip, Weekend Canoeing in Michigan has everything you need to get the most out of your time on the water. You’ll find an overview of the river, level of difficulty, details about the nearest canoe livery, what music you’ll need to get you in the proper frame of mind, the local radio station to tune in Tigers’ games, how far it is from various Michigan towns (and Milwaukee, home of Pabst Blue Ribbon Beer), plus the tavern where you can grab a bite to eat and a beer after the trip.
While you’re on the river, Doc provides you with landmarks to help determine the speed, depth and width of the river, as well as obstacles you might encounter and camping locations. From well-researched sources like tavern placemats, barkeeps and their patrons, he also offers insider accounts on nearby towns and stories to round out the book.
Weekend Canoeing in Michigan, a paperback, retails at $17.95. Order online at arbutuspress.com or ask for it at your local bookstore.