River Road National Scenic Byway
A view from the Westgate Welcome Center along the River Road National Scenic Byway
The Lumberman's Monument
The River Road National Scenic Byway is a 23-mile route between Westgate and Oscoda, paralleling the Au Sable National Scenic River, mostly through Huron-Manistee National Forest. The area is heavily treed in second-growth timber and the river has been tamed by multiple hydroelectric projects. That said, the Au Sable Valley is among the top tourism draws in Michigan with multiple recreational opportunities in the heart of gorgeous countryside.
River Road offers views of the valley from atop high bluffs. Autumn brings out the colors in the hardwoods and the color-watchers from the cities. Winter tends to be spectacular and quiet. Spring brings out the canoers, kayakers and anglers. There are welcome centers, interpretive sites and overlooks at Westgate, Iargo Springs, the Lumberman's Monument, the Canoers Memorial, Old Orchard Park and in Oscoda.
The Au Sable River from the Lumberman's Monument Park
River Road National Scenic Byway map
Upper photo courtesy of the US Forest Service
Map courtesy of Byways.org
Other photos are in the public domain
Map courtesy of Byways.org
Other photos are in the public domain