Huron National Forest Au Sable River Fire Tower Circuit

This 35-mile sandy loop connects Corsair, Lumberman’s Monument, and Reid Lake fire towers through the heart of Michigan’s legendary Au Sable River trout waters. Built on Depression-era CCC roads, the route crosses the holy water at McKinney Creek bridge (check those pylons), climbs through towering white pine plantations, and hits three operational fire towers offering panoramic views of the river valley. The Corsair tower climb rewards with 360-degree forest views stretching to Lake Huron on clear days.

Easy to moderate — mostly hard-packed sand with occasional loose sections requiring momentum. High-clearance 2WD handles dry conditions, but spring mud and fall rains demand 4WD. May through October best, though fall colors are spectacular. No permits needed for forest roads, but respect private property boundaries near river access points. Grayling for fuel and supplies. What you get: access to Michigan’s most storied trout stream corridor without dealing with the Au Sable River Road tourist parade.