Cedar River Preserve: Birding by Boat on the Cedar River

A paddle along the wild and undeveloped Cedar River is the perfect place to view blue herons, loons and stunning yellow pond lilies. If you’re lucky, you may spot a mink slipping into crystal clear waters or watch an eagle dive for its dinner. The Cedar River twists dramatically through four ecosystems and many micro-habitats. The environment includes fen, shrub scrub, and aquatic systems. Put in a canoe or kayak at the boat launch near the Cedar Village Park. You’ll reach the mouth of the river on South Lake Leelanau after about 4 miles (1.5 hours paddling). Reverse your course back to Cedar Village Park, or paddle 1.8 miles east along the south shore to the Fouch Road public boat launch.

This property is managed by the Leelanau Conservancy.

Learn more about this property HERE.