Technically named the Manistee River High Banks Rollaway, most people know it as just the Manistee River. Whether you're keen on its proper name or like to keep it simple, it's certain that there can be agreement on its wonderous views and incredible trail systems. The bends and banks are unforgettable, and the trees in the fall- priceless. If you need somewhere new to explore in Northern Michigan or are looking to disappear into the essence of fall for a few hours, this is your next destination.

The River That Keeps Running

There is a lot more to the Manistee River than most realize. This United States river flows 190 miles throughout the lower peninsula of Michigan, giving a reliable source of recreation, appreciation, education, and fishing opportunities to the counties surrounding its shores.

This river touches its edges with towns throughout the northwestern area of the lower peninsula, running through places such as Sharon, Mesick, Antrim County, and even into Grand Traverse County- a hotspot for tourism. The diversity of people and places that this river encounters are a large part of its fame. If you were to make a trip from start to finish of this river, it would be an interesting one, to say the least (which is why most people don’t go but a few miles). The river is very popular with canoers and kayakers despite the length, as the water flow is stable and clean.

Historical Scope

The history of this remarkable riverway is slightly sad. Still, it does cap off with a bright future as the locals surrounding it are working to restore the habitats and its serine value to this beautiful area. The first interaction the High Rollaway Manistee River had with humans began with the Ottawa and Chippewa Indians. In fact, the name originates from the Chippewa's language, though its true meaning has faded over time. The Ottawa reservation was established in 1836 after settlers claimed the land and still stands to this day in Manistee County (as well as in Mason County).

For settlers, the Manistee River was initially known for its rewarding fishery, located in Grayling. It was rated as one of the most efficient of its time until 1880 when the logging industry took over the area. Logging led to devastation for the waterways and all the life that relied on it. The silt runoff truly changed the water quality and led to a significant impact on the fish, thus fading the industry into the background of things. At this moment in time, though, the logging industry's effects have become less impactful with the intervention of ecosystem restoration.

Not only were the trees surrounding the river beneficial to the progress of settlers, but the river itself turned out to be very reliable for transporting the processed lumber. This transporting system helped provide resources for constructing major Midwestern Cities in the United States, such as Chicago and Grand Rapids. If you are ever touring the waters, keep your eyes peeled at the bottom of the river as you may spot some of the logs that were lost on the commute and left to rest where they lay.

The Best Places to Start Your Adventure

The Manistee River has various places to enjoy its beauty, its sounds, and its footpaths. If you feel uncertain which starting point best meets your destination desires, read through these descriptions, and get a feel for the scenery and location. If you seek the best of Northern Michigan autumn views, you have come to the right place, regardless of your starting point!

Riverwalk: Manistee

Make a day trip out of this location and enjoy Manistee's city in the process of appreciating the river. The Riverwalk is a 1.75-mile Riverwalk that includes 25 plaques of information on the river's history and its effect on the county. Once you are finished with this walk, it may be worth your time and interest to visit the Manistee County Historical Museum, which is located at 425 River Street.

Manistee's city is a prominent place for enthusiastic people about the High Rollaway Manistee River, but don't assume that this is the best (left open for discussion) or only place to get in on the action. If you are curious about the logging and industrial benefits of the river though, Manistee's actual town will be the highlight of your intake.

Tippy Dam & Manistee National Recreation River: Brethren

Tippy Dam is located in Brethren, Michigan and now incorporates a campground- a local favorite for enthusiastic anglers. Between the dam and the M-55 Bridge, there is a National Recreational River section of the Manistee that was founded in 1996. This river area is embraced by those who love the outdoors- fishing, hunting, sight-seeing, boating, bird watching, or just plain exploring.

To enjoy the National Recreation River, you can either hire a guide, rent a boat, or bring your own and try the waters out yourself. There are plenty of backpacking trails and camping sites, too. Many people make a weekend trip to the location as there is much to do and explore.

Bear Creek Access: Brethren

The Bear Creek River Access is the largest tributary of the Rollaway Manistee River below the Tippy Dam. It is favorable to those who love to fish, as it has access that gives anglers the ability to fish in both of the best waterways. This is an excellent place to get in the water as well, with a reliable boat dock and the amenities needed for successful transitioning.

The Explore the Shores pier is readily available for sight-seeing and often used as a great starting point. If you got the time, check out the mound-a prehistoric settlement that thrived between 800 and 1300 AD. The point where Bear Creek merges with the Manistee is a magical place, and people have felt that way since the first moment they entered its terrain.

This tends to be a popular place for people to view the Manistee when they are closer to the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore and Park. It is not too far from Glen Arbor, and the road between the two is quite scenic. It is also a straight shot from Grand Rapids, making it a prime location for southern Michigan travelers seeking escape to the Manistee River.

High Rollaway Lookout: Buckley

Buckley's scenic overlook is a great destination if you're starting in Traverse City or the surrounding areas. To get to this favored fall observation point, you will take M-37 until reaching the center of Buckley, then turning east onto N17. A few turns after that, and you should be pulling into the parking lot (which is either full or empty, never in between, it seems). From this location, you will trek to the tip-top point to get a view you won't forget. The fall is the best time to visit, as the shades of the leaves are mesmerizing. You also get a prestigious view of the North Country Trails that curve along the edge of the Horseshoe bend (which works well for motivation to take your trek one step further).

If you are feeling adventurous and have your hiking shoes handy, take the time to explore this incredible location's pathways. The horseshoe bend in the river is famous and favorable to those who are passionate about the riverway. It has become iconic for tourists and outdoor-oriented locals alike but should always be remembered as somewhere special for those who first inhabited the rivers banks- the Native Americans. Whether you're looking to have a picnic or take some pictures, this location has it all.

Fife Lake Loop Trail & Springfield Park: Fife Lake

The small town of Fife Lake has one of the best-kept secrets of spots to view and explore the Manistee River. Located in the Northwest region of Michigan, the Fife Lake Loop Trail is approximately 21.1 miles long and makes a great day hiking trail. Along this path, you will come in close contact with the Manistee River, enjoy lookout areas (Eagle View), and even find a few places to dip your feet in the water for a moment of relaxation. This trail is a scenic path that branches off and back to the North Country Trail. It makes a significant side venture if you haven't explored this area, as the land is unique and untouched compared to various other regions along the Manistee River.

While exploring the Fife Lake Loop Trail, you can make a stop and visit the local’s favorite hub- the Springfield Park. In the winter, there is sledding, snowman building contests, and during the spring and summer, you can enjoy the local farmers market and various other community get-togethers. It is humbling to see how grateful the locals are in this beautiful area.

North Country National Trail System

If you’re an avid hiker, take advantage of the incredible North Country National Trail System. While you’re at it, do so in a way that allows you to follow along the Manistee High Banks Rollaway River. This is best done best along the area of the trail that passes through Buckley, but there are pieces of it in Manistee county and near the Springfield Park intersection.

The North Country National Trail System is the longest of trails within the system of our national trails. It is a feat of 4,600 miles and stretches across a total of eight states- one of them being Michigan. The trail touches base in the majority of Michigan, from the Western part of the Upper Peninsula and down into the southernmost regions, eventually stretching beyond our borders in both directions.

Those who are up to the challenge can go through Grand Rapids and into Manistee, making their way to the Mackinaw Bridge and island to work their way to the Tahquamenon Falls State Park eventually. You could even make it a point to include Pictured Rocks National Park and Lakeshore in the trip as well if you wanted to be an overachiever. Despite all these great stops along the trail throughout Michigan's state, though, the Manistee High Banks Rollaway River is a large part of what makes the North Country National Trail System so phenomenal.

Of course, walking along the banks of Lake Michigan, Lake Superior, and Lake Huron are all moving in their own way, but there is something strangely unique about the Manistee's beauty. The cleanliness of the water, the serenity in the silence, and the wildlife's dependence on the area are all stimulating in ways anyone could benefit from- especially as an active hiker/explorer.

Inspiring Views, Majestic Hues

Once you explore the Manistee High Banks Rollaway River during the fall, you will understand why it is spoken so highly of. The changing of leaves is breathtaking, whether from the view of the High Rollaway lookout near Buckley or within the banks while coasting in a canoe. The trees that line the edges of this waterway are miraculously stunning, containing shades of bright orange, deep brown and red, and popping mustard yellow.

If you’re wondering where to go for some autumn inspiration, look no further. We speak from experience, as Northern Nail Polish has a 2020 Fall collection of colors all inspired by the majestic scenes of Northern Michigan during this crisp and quaint time of year. Any Michigan enthusiast should take advantage of their High Rollaway shade, a smooth hue of mustard yellow, which will remind you day after day of the Manistee High Rollaway River from atop the lookout.

Whether you're looking for Michigan-themed cosmetics or inspirational views, I hope you find the opportunity to visit and absorb the majestic hues that paint the scape along the Manistee River banks during this reflective time of the year.