This stretch of the Dowagiac River, from M51 to Peavine Street, is different from most southwestern Michigan rivers. Most rivers are bathed in sunshine. The Dowagiac River is shaded by the forest canopy. Sunlight filters through in some places. You can leave your sunscreen at home.
The Dowagiac River was straightened and dredged in the 1920’s. Consequently, the river does not meander. It gently curves through the countryside, without loops or sharp turns.
A byproduct of the dredging is the steep banks at the river’s edge for much of its course. The river bottom is mostly sand with some gravel here and there. Water depth is mostly one to three feet. There are some deeper scour holes around trees and logjams. On the day of my voyage, the water was slightly cloudy. The only obstacles are trees and tree limbs.
During this six and a half mile voyage, the river passes under six bridges: M51, Middle Crossing Road, Yaw Street, M62, Frost Street, and Peavine Street.
My trip took place in late August of 2021. I used a canoe/kayak livery, Doe-Wah-Jack’s Canoe Rental, for shuttle service. It is located on highway M51, a little over two miles north of the Dowagiac city limits, on the south side of the river and on the east side of the highway.
The livery is very diligent about clearing paths through fallen trees that completely block the river. I encountered one large logjam that they hadn’t gotten to yet. A huge tree fell across the river and it took several other trees with it, creating a massive blockage. I found what looked to be the best place to get through and got out of my kayak. I waded the logjam, climbing over, under, and through the tangle of trees, pulling my kayak behind me.
After finally clearing the logjam, I turned around for one last look upstream at the blocked river.
I don’t regard logjams like this as something to detest or dislike. It’s part of nature. I like the challenge of getting through safely. It’s all part of the total kayaking experience. A positive mindset makes portaging fun, instead of making it a chore.
During my trip, I discovered two abandoned rental kayaks. Each one was thoroughly stuck in a log jam. I found out that the kayakers walked out. Quitting is for sissies.
I was disappointed when the boat landing came into view. The Dowagiac River was so much fun to kayak that I didn’t want my trip to end. Paddling through the tunnel of trees was enchanting.
The river access site is immediately downstream from the Peavine Street bridge. There are steps and a boat slide that will take you up from the river’s edge to the loading/unloading area. There are no restrooms.
I don’t know why it took me so many years to return to the Dowagiac River. From now on, I’ll be sure to make it an annual trip!
KAYAKING SOUTHWEST MICHIGAN 