Sturgeon River Sloughs Natural Area

In addition to migrating birds, muskrats and beaver can be seen from the slough at the mouth of the Sturgeon River, one of the Upper Peninsula's longer and more interesting watersheds. The viewing stand is right off U.S. 41.

A lookout tower by the roadside parking area off U.S. 41 offers a big view of sweeping marshland and sky. (There are also picnic tables and Porta-Johns.) The sloughs (pronounced "slews") had been pastureland so wet it could only be farmed by horses. Now channelization and flood control structures regulate the Sturgeon River to help avoid spring flooding, which can make most of the Keweenaw Peninsula pretty much an island.

The sloughs are also managed as a stopover spot for migrating waterfowl and a nesting place to increase the Upper Peninsula's resident goose population for hunting. The De VRIENDT NATURE TRAIL, with interesting interpretive signs, uses boardwalks in part to make a 1.5-mile loop through the slough. It's now a nesting site for Canada geese, mallards, wood ducks, black ducks, and blue-winged teal. Eagles, great blue herons, and osprey can often be seen here. So can beavers and muskrats, especially at dawn and dusk.

On U.S. 41 about 18 miles north of Baraga and one mile south of Chassell. (906) 353-6651. Wheelchair access: trail, picnic area.

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CHASSELL
POINTS OF INTEREST

Sturgeon River Sloughs Natural Area. A lookout tower provides a relaxing sweeping view of a former wet pastureland now managed as a stopover point for migrating waterfowl ... more

Einerlei. A restful, handsome gift and clothing shop, greenhouse, and garden in a rambling series of indoor and outdoor spaces ... more

Chassell Heritage Center. A fine little local history musuem, using memorabilia to tell stories of ancient Native American life and much more recent immigrant life ... more

Chassell Centennial Park. A peaceful view of the water just off the highway from this well-equipped park with swimming beach and peaceful view, chutes-and-ladders playgroun, volleyball and basketball courts, picnic tables and grills ... more

Mageia Mineerals. Minerals from around the world, with an emphasis on the Keweenaw—Lake Superior agates, greenstones, copper, and datolite ... more

Portage Quilt Shop . An excellent selection of fabrics from around the world at this shop ... more

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