About Sturgeon River Gorge Wilderness
The Wild and Scenic Sturgeon River rushes out of the northern portion of this wilderness, over the 20 foot volcanic outcroppings of Sturgeon Falls, and through a gorge that reaches 350 feet in depth and a mile in width. Throughout this rugged, steep Wilderness, the Sturgeon and Little Silver Rivers and their tributaries have carved falls, rapids, ponds, oxbows, and terraces. Stunning views are possible from the eastern rim of the gorge. Except for a few naturally bare slopes, most of the land is forested with pine, hemlock, aspen, sugar maple, birch, and basswood. When the leaves of the hardwoods change color in the fall, they form a vivid tapestry. There are few established trails in Sturgeon River Gorge Wilderness, and the few overgrown logging roads are hard to find and follow. The North Country National Scenic Trail parallels the northern and eastern boundaries for about eight miles. Sturgeon River Campground offers seven sites on the southeastern boundary. In spring and during peak runoff, kayaking and white water canoeing are challenging, and only recommended for advanced paddlers.Sturgeon River Gorge Wilderness Map
How to Get There
From Sidnaw, Mi., travel east on M 28 approximately ¼ mile to FR 2200, turn left onto FR 2200. There are several locations you are able to enter into the Wilderness, it is recommended that you use the campground or approved trailhead. To access the campground travel north on FR 2200 approximately 5 miles. To access the southern most trailhead travel north on FR 2200 approximately 3 miles to FR 2224, the trailhead is on the right on FR 2224.
Driving directions (Google Maps) →Plan Your Visit to Sturgeon River Gorge Wilderness
Heading to Sturgeon River Gorge Wilderness? A few things to know before you go:
- Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
- Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
- Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
- Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
- Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a reservation for Sturgeon River Gorge Wilderness?
No central reservation system listed for Sturgeon River Gorge Wilderness. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/238242) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to Sturgeon River Gorge Wilderness?
From Sidnaw, Mi., travel east on M 28 approximately ¼ mile to FR 2200, turn left onto FR 2200. There are several locations you are able to enter into the Wilderness, it is recommended that you use the campground or approved trailhead. To access the campground travel north on FR 2200 approximately 5 miles. To access the southern most trailhead travel north on FR 2200 approximately 3 miles to FR 222…
References & Official Resources
