Whether you’re planning your own trip, or joining one of our paddling programs, you’re sure to have a wonderful time on the Flint River.
Use our Interactive Water Trail Map and/or our Guided Paddle Schedule to plan your next trip on the Flint River! Download a printable Flint River Water Trail Guide.
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Paddling Etiquette
It is important to remember that the Flint River Water Trail (FRWT) supports a wide variety of recreational uses. People use the river for fishing, hunting, boating, and paddling. Much of the river is publicly owned land, but some areas are owned by private citizens. It is important to note that ALL users have a responsibility to be good stewards of the water trail.
Interacting with Local Residents and Other River Access Users
- Drive courteously and within the speed limit, particularly in residential areas, in and surrounding access sites.
- Park in designated areas, making sure not to block driveways or interfere with traffic.
- Change clothes discretely.
- Do not play loud music.
- Follow the laws and rules of the area that you are using.
- Consider taking a few minutes to pick up litter left by others.
Interacting with Anglers
- Stay in the main flow whenever possible while paddling past anglers or while paddling in heavily fished waters.
- In areas that are being fished, paddle past consistently with minimal splashing or interference.
- Avoid shouting or being loud.
- Don’t approach casting anglers.
- Avoid startling anglers. Pass anglers on highly visible paths down the river and make eye contact with the angler as far upstream as possible.
Interacting with Boaters
- At put-ins and take-outs (boat launch access sites), behave in a friendly, positive manner toward others and be helpful to those who might need assistance.
- Allow for spacing upstream and downstream of others, particularly in a rapid, and seek to avoid collisions.
- When entering a rapid, the upstream craft has the right of way. Those entering the current should yield to those already in it.
- When exiting the current, avoid eddies that are full, if possible, and take care when entering occupied eddies.
- When playing, avoid blocking navigation by yielding to oncoming, upstream craft. Exit a play spot after a reasonable time to allow someone else to use it.
- Always provide assistance to others who are in trouble or who are injured.
Leave No Trace Practices for River Corridors
The Seven Leave No Trace Practices for River Corridors:
- Plan ahead and prepare
- Travel and camp on durable surfaces
- Dispose of waste properly (pack it in, pack it out)
- Leave what you find
- Minimize campfire impacts
- Respect wildlife
- Be considerate of other visitors
The information contained on this page was sourced from: MichiganWaterTrails.org
