In several parts of the Huron River watershed, people are talking about improving recreational access to the river, adding interpretive, way-finding, and historical signage, creating linkages from city to village, and creative economic development opportunities.  These ideas are at the heart of a “Water Trail.”

To coordinate these efforts and extend the idea to the entire navigable portion of the river, the Huron River Watershed Council is facilitating an effort to develop a Huron River Water Trail (HRWT). Our aim is to reconnect communities in Oakland, Livingston, Washtenaw, and Wayne Counties to the Huron River and its recreational, economic, historic, and cultural values.

Make a donation HERE to support the Huron River Water Trail Project

Planning for a Huron River Water Trail

A Steering Committee has been formed to provide guidance in creating the Huron River Water Trail (HRWT). This group has identified a Vision, Goals, and intended Audience for the HRWT.

Three Work Groups will be created to support water trail development:

1. Water Trail Infrastructure Work Group
2. Cultural and Natural History Research Work Group
3. Pilot Sites Work Group

Get involved: These work groups  are meeting and looking for a few more volunteers. Contact eriggs@hrwc.org if you are interested in participating!

Subsequently, Water Trail Maintenance & Monitoring Crews will be developed to provide ongoing oversight of trail conditions.

Putting the pieces together

In recent years, several groups have worked to promote an enhanced appreciation for the Huron River.

• Oakland County Planning & Economic Development Services: Oakland County Water Trails
• Detroit Metropolitan Affairs Coalition: Detroit Heritage River Water Trail

We are working with these partners, and more, to build the Huron River Water Trail.

Water Trail Resources

HRWT Forum

Whether you paddle, wade, or walk its shores, we’d like to hear more about your connection to the Huron River. Join the Huron River Water Trail Forum.

Recommended Trips

Are you looking for some inspiration in planning a day off or a weekend with the family? Check out our Recommended Trips on the Huron River Water Trail for some ideas, maps, and trip descriptions.

Maps Available for your Use

Huron River Canoeing & Kayaking Map

Huron-Clinton Metropolitan Authority recently updated their Huron River Canoeing & Kayaking Map which provides information on riverside amenities (camping, parking, water, toilets), land manager information, and navigational insights (landings, dams, and portages).

Huron River Water Trail Google Earth Map

The Huron River Watershed Council has developed a Google Earth map for the Water Trail. You will need Google Earth to utilize this tool. This software can be downloaded for free at the Google Earth Download website. After downloading and installing Google Earth, click the link below to download the Huron River Water Trail Google Map (.kmz file). Opening the file will load the map into Google Earth.

Huron River Water Trail Google Earth Map – 28.9 KB KMZ file; Google Earth required.

Water Trail Planning Maps

The Greenway Collaborative, Inc. has provided GIS-based planning tools as a resource for the Huron River Water Trail planners and users. This map is in draft form, but is available for your use.

Huron River Water Trail Overview Map – 6.5 MB JPEG (low resolution)

Note: These maps are provided as general guides and are not to be relied upon to identify all hazards.

Thank you for your support for this project!

If you are interested in learning more about this project, contact Elizabeth Riggs at eriggs@hrwc.org