Geologic Wonders
Wild and Scenic Rivers
The United States Congress created the National Wild and Scenic Rivers System in 1968 to preserve certain rivers with outstanding natural, cultural, and recreational values in a free-flowing condition for the enjoyment of present and future generations. With Wild and Scenic River management, we are tasked with managing the Outstanding and Remarkable Values these rivers provide to the local economies, fish and wildlife habitat, and our enjoyment of these special places.
Wild and Scenic Rivers of Huron-Manistee National Forests
Our Story Map on our five designated Wild and Scenic Rivers provides a great overview of each of our rivers, as well as ways you can help them be there for future generations.
AuSable River
The Au Sable National Scenic River, is a 23-mile portion of the Au Sable River that stretches from Mio to Alcona Pond. President Ronald Reagan signed the law establishing the segment of river as a National Scenic River on October 4, 1984.
Manistee River
The Manistee River between Tippy Dam and the M-55 Bridge was designated as a National Recreational River in 1996. The river is wide and characterized by steep banks and sharp bends, with a swift current and mostly slow, wide bends.
Bear Creek
Bear Creek is designated from Coates highway to the confluence with the Manistee River. Only 3.5 miles of the river runs through National Forest, the remainder is on private property. Bear Creek was added as a Scenic River in 1996, at the same time the Manistee River was designated a National Scenic River.
Pine River
The lower 26-miles of the Pine River was designated a National Scenic River in 1992. The Pine River provides a unique recreation experience for lower Michigan, supporting quality opportunities for a diversity of recreation activities in a relatively undeveloped setting.
Pere Marquette
In July 1978 the Pere Marquette River and its major tributaries were designated a Michigan Natural River by the State of Michigan. This same year the river was added as a National Wild and Scenic River, the first in Michigan. The scenic portion of the river is a sixty-six mile stretch from the junction of the Middle and Little South Branches to the Old Highway 31 Bridge.
Wild and Scenic River Toolkit
Would you like to share the message of how to protect these special resources? See our toolkit for messaging tips and shareables.