Tuscola to Frankenmuth
Beginner
5 Miles, 1.5 to 2.25 Hours
Universally Accessible Launch: Heritage Park
Start: Tuscola Township Park
Finish: Memorial Park Boat Launch or Heritage Park
On this section, riffles become less common, while long stretches of deep and slow water become more prevalent. Travel time could vary greatly depending on wind conditions and how willing the voyager is to paddle. Floating along is less practical as one nears Frankenmuth, due to the slowed current upstream from Frankenmuth. Fishing boats, pontoons and commercial tour boats are common sightings along this relatively wide and still beautiful stretch of river.
Tuscola Township
Off Van Cleve Road in Tuscola on the north side of river
Type: Gravel pathway with concrete at the water’s edge
Parking: Gravel parking lot for 6-8 vehicles
Parking Address: 8755 Van Cleve Road, Tuscola Township, MI 48768
Facilities: Pit toliet, playground, picnic table, hiking trail, fishing access. Ball fields and picnic pavilions nearby
*Perfect location for paddlers looking to adventure down 5 miles of the Cass River to Frankenmuth. This launch is a gentle slope pathway right to the water. A convenience store is located 1/4 mile from launch.
City of Frankenmuth
531 E. Tuscola Road, Frankenmuth, north side of the river
Type: Paved launch for trailered boats and various bank options for canoes/kayaks
Parking: Paved for 15+, including trailers
Parking Address: 531 E. Tuscola Road, Frankenmuth, MI 48734
Facilities: Picnic areas, 40-acre park
*Directly across the river from Heritage Park
City of Frankenmuth
601 Weiss Street, Frankenmuth, south side of the river
Type: Universally accessible floating dock with paved pathway
Parking: Gravel/grass for 50+ vehicles
Parking Address: 601 Weiss Street, Frankenmuth, MI 48734
Facilities: (on site or nearby amenities): Picnic areas, Restrooms, 35-acre park including ball feilds, pavilions, and walking trails
*Access to Heritage Park is limited on some dates due to events in the park:
– November – Mid April Park closed to vehicular traffic for season
– July 4 (7am – noon)
– July 28 (9am – 5pm)
– Sept 7-9
The Memorial Park Boat Launch is a great alternative to Heritage park launch during these times.
