Dear Guests,
Rifle River Lodge is comfortably nestled in a scenic rural Northern Michigan four season recreational area near the quaint town of Rose City. The lodge property is dissected by Houghton Creek, a feeder stream to the Rifle River that supports a healthy natural population of brown and brook trout. The 4450 acre Rifle River Recreation area, six minutes to the east of the lodge, is home to 10 no-wake lakes and ponds and provides year-round recreational opportunities, including fishing, paddling, camping, swimming, hiking, mountain biking and much more.
The two bedroom dwelling comfortably accommodates five people with amenities including a full upscale kitchen, two full bathrooms, ample parking, heating and air conditioning, Internet service, BBQ, fire pit, and smart TV.
Lodge guests can experience a broad range of year round recreation and outdoor sporting activities, then retreat to the comforts of a contemporary rustic home to recharge before the next day’s adventure.
Please enjoy your stay, tell us about your stay, and come back again soon!
Kathleen and Sam Hanna
Crystal clear lakes, hundreds of miles of sparkling rivers, streams, and trails amid dense pine, beech, sugar-maple, aspen, northern oak, and hickory hardwoods saturate this region. From the lodge, forty miles of wild country to the west is Grayling, and forty miles to east is Lake Huron. And the famed Au Sable River flows 138 miles through it all. When night falls and Michigan’s breathtaking views fade into the darkness, the skyscape opens to one of the greatest star shows in the country. This region echoes the words, “Pure Michigan”.
The Vision & Values of the people of Rose City are Be Kind, Be Respectful, Be Responsible, Work Hard, Have Fun – Jeremy Cord, Mayor, Rose City.
Rose City, established in 1905, is located in Ogemaw County in the northeastern section of the lower peninsula of Michigan. Rose City is located midway between West Branch, Ogemaw County seat, and Mio, Oscoda County seat, and midway between Hale & St. Helen.
Less than ten minutes from Rifle River Lodge, Rose City offers guests with services and business establishments that make your outdoor recreation experiences a little more convenient. Our guests enjoy all of the outdoor sports and recreational experiences of the region while only minutes away from the conveniences offered in Rose City.
Rifle River Recreation Area provides year-round recreation opportunities, including fishing, paddling, camping, swimming, hiking, mountain biking and more. The park is home to 10 no-wake lakes and ponds, including Grousehaven and Devoe, the Rifle River and several scenic streams. There is an observation tower located along Ridge Road overlooking many of the parks features and a swinging (suspension) bridge across the Rifle River.
The park is also home to a 3-D archery range, including 10 different targets, that is open April through October. There is a $2 fee. The park is open to hunting, and there is an accessible hunting blind available by reservation.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=byzDco-qNMM
The regional rivers, lakes and streams are abundant in their numbers and in the variety of fish species they support. Through the Huron National Forest, stretching east to west from Grayling to Lake Huron, and north to south from Mio through the Roscommon State Forest, the fishing opportunities are both countless and world class.
With Rifle River Lodge nestled right in the middle, guests can experience the Holy Waters of the famed Au Sable, or walk out the back door to fish Houghton Creek, a tributary of the Rifle River, and one of Michigan’s best known natural native trout streams. Around the bend from the lodge is the Rifle River Recreation area where bluegill, bass, northern pike, yellow perch, and trout can be found in the park’s lakes, rivers, and streams.
To the east of Rifle River Lodge are Houghton, Higgins, Lake St Helen, and Clear Lake. The lakes will delight you with their natural beauty, wildlife viewing and most of all the spectacular sunrises and sunsets.
A lifetime could be spent in the heart of Pure Michigan discovering and experiencing the Rifle River Lodge fishing opportunities.
Hundreds of miles of Michigan designated wild and scenic natural rivers and streams are scattered throughout the area near Rifle River Lodge.
Known as the birthplace of Trout Unlimited – the Au Sable River runs approximately 138 miles through the northern Lower Peninsula, through the towns of Grayling and Mio, and enters Lake Huron at Oscoda. It is considered one of the best brown trout fisheries east of the Rocky Mountains. For generations, the best anglers in the world have come to the Au Sable – the river of sand – to fish originally for grayling, today for brown trout, rainbow trout, brook trout, smallmouth bass, Atlantic salmon, and steelhead.
https://obtu.org/fishing/michigan/au-sable-river/
Rifle River is a 60.3-mile-long river that rises in northeastern Ogemaw County and flows through Arenac County to enter Saginaw Bay of Lake Huron. Once a logging river during the Michigan forestry boom at the turn of the 20th century, the river is now primarily used for recreation and is a state-designated natural river. It is a popular river for canoeing, with no portages or dams and an average depth of 18 inches, to 5 feet in downtown Omer.
Anglers may find brown trout of a variety of sizes (surveys showed up to 19 inches), and rainbow trout (steelhead) from smolts (7" to 2ft plus). In the spring, the steelhead comes up the river to spawn. Brown trout are stocked at various locations and steelhead are stocked at Selkirk downstream. Anglers may also find the occasional brook trout which may drop out of tributaries.
The Rifle River Lodge property is dissected by Houghton Creek, a Type 1 designated wild river, which is a short hike out the back door of the dwelling. Houghton Creek is an excellent feeder stream to the Rifle River and is large enough to support fly-fishing and light tackle spin fishing. A previous state record brown trout of 36 5/8 inches, weighing 17 pounds five ounces, was taken from this stream in 1952.
https://www.mlive.com/outdoors/2011/04/hidden_spots_michigans_best-ke.html
Michigan's largest inland lake is covering 22,000 acres. The lake offers great fishing possibilities. Here you will find good fishing possibilities for walleye, pike, bass and bluegill. There are seven access sites strategically located around the lake.
https://visithoughtonlake.com/fish.shtml
The Cut River connects Marl Lake to Higgins Lake giving ample opportunity to fish for perch, trout and pike. Here you will find four seasons of fun. The lakes will delight you with their natural beauty, wildlife viewing and most of all the spectacular sunrises and sunsets, located in the heart of Michigan.
https://www.michigan.org/city/higgins-lake
Lake St. Helen is 2,400 acres in size and located in eastern Roscommon County adjacent to the town of St. Helen, Michigan. Its maximum depth is approximately 25 feet with most of the lake less than 10 feet deep. Largemouth bass, bluegill, crappie, perch, pike, and walleye. A Bluegill Festival is held each summer.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lake_St._Helen
Located in southern Houghton County southeast of M-26, 28.4 acre Clear Lake has a maximum depth of 60 feet. This is a good lake for rainbow and brook trout. Public access site and boat launch. Clear Lake Access Road south of Pike River Road.
https://www.michigan.org/property/clear-lake-state-park
An abundance of resources is available to support your Northern Michigan fishing adventures. Either walking and wading, or floating, experienced guides and outfitters dot the region to for your convenience. We’ve established relationships with guides within proximity to our lodge with deep knowledge and experience with the waters, seasons, and species that you may be pursuing. Depending upon what you’re seeking in your fishing adventure, we’ll attempt to connect you with the most appropriate service.
Au Sable River Outfitters is your premier destination for your next outdoor trip in Northern Michigan! ARO is located on 6th Street west of M-33 and is just a short 1/2 mile south of the beautiful AuSable River. The AuSable River is home to one of the best trout fisheries east of the Rocky Mountains, and here at AuSable River Outfitters we stock the items and knowledge you need to make your fishing trip memorable!
225 W. Sixth Street, MIO MI 48647
https://www.ausableriveroutfitters.com/
William T. Mangan is the owner/operator of Mangan’s Cast a Fly. Bill is an (FFI) Fly Fishers International Certified Fly Casting Instructor and Michigan DNR Certified Fly Fishing Guide.
After retiring as a Lieutenant from Law Enforcement after over 28 years with the Macomb County Sheriff’s Office, he was then able to pursue his passion of Fly Fishing full-time! Besides his own business he is also a Pro Staffer for (ARO) Au Sable River Outfitters in Mio, MI, with whom he guides and teaches fly casting.
Bill guides on Michigan’s Au Sable River. He has been Fly Fishing since 1980 and has over 30 years’ experience operating a Drift Boat. Bill also does private Fly Casting lessons. He is truly passionate about what he does and loves to teach and bring people up in the sport of Fly-Fishing, especially the art of Fly Casting.
Each year he does Fly Casting Seminars/Demonstrations for several Organizations and Venues, throughout Michigan, Montana, and Minnesota. He is a stage hardliner for Michigan’s Ultimate Fishing Show, Ultimate Sport Show and Woods-N-Water Outdoor Weekend Show, to name a few.
Bill has written Fly Casting articles for the Woods-N-Water Magazine and has been featured several times on Michigan Out of Doors TV.
Tel: 586-819-9032
Email: manganscastafly@gmail.com
https://www.manganscastafly.com/
Keeping with tradition since 1982, Calypso Sportfishing Charters has been delivering the ultimate fishing experience on the Great Lakes. Whether you're chasing Salmon, Lake Trout, Steelhead, Brown Trout, or Walleye, our commitment to your fishing success and comfort is at the heart of everything we do. Captain Gene Kirvan, a seasoned expert with a passion for fishing and education, ensures every trip is both exciting and memorable.
Lake Charters
Step aboard the Calypso II, a spacious 27-foot twin-engine Sea Ray Amberjack, fully equipped with state-of-the-art electronics, an impressive selection of lures, and a private restroom for your convenience. During the summer months (June–September), we navigate the stunning waters of Lake Huron, while in the spring (March–May) and fall (October–December), we fish the legendary Mighty AuSable River from our top-tier Hyde low-profile boat.
River Charters
For a truly immersive fishing experience, join Calypso Sportfishing Charters on a 7-hour drift boat trip down the legendary AuSable River. Available in the spring (March–May) and fall (October–December), this intimate fishing adventure is designed for 1–2 anglers, offering a personal and hands-on approach to reeling in Steelhead and Atlantic Salmon. You'll fish from our Hyde low-profile drift boat, one of the finest available, fully equipped for a smooth and productive day on the water. Be sure to dress warm!
Tel: 989-739-2313
Email: manganscastafly@gmail.com
https://www.manganscastafly.com/
Main Branch of the Au Sable River
Our fishing guide service in Michigan provides a first class experience with veteran guides and high quality tackle. Our goal is to provide you with the fishing experience of a lifetime. We target trout,
salmon, steelhead, and other species. Year round fishing opportunities. Head guide Kelly Neuman has spent 25 years guiding the Au Sable River and other Michigan waters.
Northern Michigan Custom Rod and Guide Service
The Au Sable River is one of the best known trout streams in the world. Most people are familiar with the upper Au Sable where the Holy Waters, South Branch, and North Branch make up classic trout water. Our focus is on the lower Au Sable, the “Big Water” as it is called locally. Broken down into three segments based on dams, each features a different kind of fishery and has its peak seasons at different times.
Tel: 989-889-5374
Email: kelly@michiganstreamside.com
https://michigan-streamside.com/
Our lodge is located on the banks of the mainstream of the Au Sable River near Grayling, Michigan. We are surrounded by wadeable, accessible, wild trout streams.
Offering a fully stocked fly shop, noted restaurant, riverside lodging, and a team of professional guides, we are passionate about your experience.
Our guides are full-time fly-fishing professionals who know the Au Sable and Manistee Rivers intimately. Our rivers are not type-A rivers, and neither are our guides.
These guys are on the river from the last snowfall to the first, and every day in between; and their experience is to the benefit of their clients. From basic instruction to midnight trophy hunting, our guides are the best of the best.
We float all the branches of the Au Sable, as well as the much of the Manistee, in the famous Au Sable riverboats. We also offer float trips in McKenzie-style drift boats where appropriate, including the lower reaches of the Au Sable.
Wade trips are available, along with four-hour on-stream instruction sessions that give beginning anglers one-on-one time with a guide.
Gates Au Sable Lodge, 471 Stephan Bridge Rd, Grayling, MI 49738
Tel: (989) 348-8462
Email: josh@gateslodge.com
https://gateslodge.com/fishing/
The Huron-Manistee National Forests comprise almost a million acres extending across the northern lower peninsula of Michigan. The Huron-Manistee National Forests provide recreation for visitors, and habitat for fish and wildlife.
The Huron-Manistee boasts thousands of lakes and miles of sparkling rivers and streams. The nationally known Pere Marquette and Au Sable Rivers offer quality canoeing and fishing.
Over 330 miles of trails are available for hiking on the Huron-Manistee National Forests. Some of which are shared trails with horses, or cross-country skiers in the winter months. The hiking and horse trails are often linear, while the cross-country and interpretive (nature) trails are usually loops of varied lengths.
Throughout the forests you can engage in any number of recreation activities: fishing, hunting, mountain biking, canoeing, kayaking, boating, and off-roading. Winter recreation includes: snowmobiling and cross country skiing.
https://www2.dnr.state.mi.us/publications/pdfs/forestslandwater/ORV/Maps-Trail/Rose_City_Trail.pdf
West Branch
The heart of West Branch’s ORV trails.
The Ogemaw Hills ORV trail system is a great way to enjoy the natural beauty of Michigan while experiencing the thrill of off-road riding.
Ogemaw Hills offer a variety of ORV trails for riders to explore. The trails are operated and maintained by the Michigan DNR and provide a range of difficulty levels and terrain types for riders of all skill levels. The area features over 90 miles of designated ORV trails, including looped and interconnected trails that wind through forests, fields, and wetlands. Some of the trails are open to all types of ORVs, while others are designated for specific vehicle types, such as motorcycles, ATVs, or side-by-sides.
Ogemaw Hills Snowmobile Club – The Ogemaw Hills snowmobile club is located at Alley Park Trail Head near the corner of Fairview Rd and Rose City Rd. Included at the Trailhead are two groomer barns, a 3 acre parking lot and pavilion.
Oscoda is the eastern gateway to northern Michigan’s ATV and snowmobile
trail system linking you to all points north. Numerous trailheads and access points offer plenty of opportunity to get out and enjoy the trails.
Our ATV & snowmobile trails connect to an expansive trail network beginning right into the heart of Downtown Oscoda. During the warm weather months, you can ride throughout the Huron National Forest and beyond. It doesn’t stop during the winter either, the network of snowmobile trail connects you west to Houghton Lake and Traverse City, and north to the Bridge.
https://oscoda.com/project/atv-and-snowmobile-trails/
Want to find the best trails in Huron National Forest for an adventurous hike or a family trip? AllTrails has 28 great trails for hiking, walking, birding and more. Enjoy hand-curated trail maps, along with reviews and photos from nature lovers like you.
https://www.alltrails.com/parks/us/michigan/huron-national-forest
West Branch, Michigan
Ogemaw Hills Pathway is a non-motorized trail that stretches through AuSable State Forest. Before it became a part of the AuSable, the Ogemaw Hills Forest comprised over 80,000 acres in Ogemaw County. For a time, the land was inhabited by farmers, but eventually the state took ownership over the land, converted it to state park, and the Ogemaw Hills Pathway was formed.
https://www.visitwestbranch.com/ogemaw-hills-pathway/
There are several trails on the forest open to mountain biking, including portions of the North Country National Scenic Trail. With much of the forest having a sandy base and/or topography, trails range from moderate to difficult. Big M and Eagle Run are groomed by fat tire bikes in winter.
Mountain Bike Trails • Hiking Trails • Disc Golf
Grayling, Michigan
There are several trails in the forest open to mountain biking, including portions of the North Country National Scenic Trail. With much of the forest having a sandy base and/or topography, trails range from moderate to difficult. Big M and Eagle Run are groomed by fat tire bikes in winter.
https://www.fs.usda.gov/activity/hmnf/recreation/bicycling/?recid=18536&actid=24
he USDA Forest Service welcomes hunters annually to the Huron-Manistee National Forests, which provides nearly a million acres of public land for the use and enjoyment of the American people.
Visitors planning a hunting trip to their public lands are asked to abide by the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) Hunting Regulations while hunting on the Huron-Manistee National Forests. Hunters are required to have a valid hunting license, issued by the MI-DNR, and to follow the current season schedule.
Michigan’s great outdoors is home to many outstanding hunting opportunities. The state’s ruffed grouse get scores of resident and nonresident hunters afield each fall, and with good reason.
Hunting Great Lakes grouse can be one of the best ways to spend a fall day. You don’t need a ton of gear—yourself, a trusty shotgun, a pocketful of shells, some hunter’s orange, and perhaps a good dog will do. A grouse hunt is never a waste of time, even when you don’t bag any of the tasty birds.
Grouse can elusive, but if you simply open your ears, it’s often quite easy to find them.
Today, Michigan ranks seventh in the nation for turkey hunting harvest and features exceptional hunting opportunities. Spring turkey season is open in every county, and fall hunts are available in places where the population is thought to be robust.
Seeking fun outdoor experiences with your friends and family? The Rifle River Lodge is surrounded by places to see and things to do.
Bring your own or rent watercraft to float or paddle the numerous rivers and streams within short driving distances from the lodge.
(989) 654-2556
5825 Townline Rd, Sterling, MI 48659
https://riflerivercampground.net/river-trips
989-653-2644
989-653-7870
146 Carrington St. Omer, MI 48749
989-654-2654
400 S. Melita Road Sterling, MI 48659
(989) 826-3267
702 N. Morenci, Mio, MI 48647
(989) 348-4921
101 Maple St, Grayling, MI 49738
https://www.canoeborchers.com/
(888) 467-4837
100 Maple St, Grayling, MI 49738
(989) 344-1400
100 State St, Grayling, MI 49738
https://carlislecanoelivery.com/
If golf is one of your favorite sports, Rifle River Lodge offers multiple options for the casual 9-hole golfer to the experienced par shooter. This area of northern Michigan is home to two of the nation’s top ranked public courses.
Your “Bucket List” experience at Forest Dunes is purely a golf one. You won’t find a pool or spa here, just 54 memorable golf holes cut through the northern Michigan forest. Some say we are in the middle of nowhere, but that’s what we like about it.
With four course offerings: Forest Dunes, The Loop-Red, The Loop Black, and the Bootlegger Short Course, there’s something for everyone at all skill levels.
(989) 275-0700
6376 Forest Dunes Drive, Roscommon, MI 48653
https://www.forestdunesgolf.com/
(989) 345-2501
1905 Fairview, West Branch, MI 48661
https://www.westbranchcountryclub.com/
(989) 345-6300
5266 W M 76, West Branch, MI 48661
(989) 345-1500
5745 Old 76 (M-55), West Branch, MI 48661
https://www.thenightmare.golf/
The natural beauty of the rolling northern Michigan terrain along with a well-manicured course from tee to green puts this area on the map of Michigan’s “must play” golf destinations.
(989) 848-5810
1481 Caldwell Rd, Mio, MI 48647
The 9-hole The Pines at Fairview in Mio, MI is a public golf course that opened in 1967. Designed by Fred Kauffman, The Pines at Fairview measures 3132 yards from the longest tees and has a slope rating of 126 and a 35 USGA rating. The course features 4 sets of tees for different skill levels.
(989) 735-3500
3501 S State Rd, Glennie, MI 48737
(989) 728-9971
7287 Wickert Rd, Hale, MI 48739
https://www.wickerhillsgolf.com/
(989) 389-7009
7071 Artesia Beach Rd, St Helen, MI 48656
https://birchpointegolfclub.com/
Things to do for all interests and ages!
The twenty-two mile River Road National Scenic Byway extends westward from Lake Huron into the Huron National Forest. It parallels the historic Riviere aux Sable (River of Sand). The Au Sable River was a major transportation route for floating Michigan’s giant white pine from forest to the sawmill towns on Lake Huron. You can learn more about this lumbering history at Lumbermen’s Monument Visitor Center that sits at the center of the byway.
Byway travelers will find abundant recreation opportunities, from motorized trails for off-road vehicles and snowmobiles to quiet trails for hiking and cross-country skiing. Camping, fishing and boating facilities are accessible from the byway. For a more relaxed experience, visitors will enjoy the lush forest and breathtaking vistas from the many scenic overlooks along the route.
River Road National Scenic Byway (pdf) - this brochure shows River Road, the Au Sable River and Lumberman's Monument
606 Lake Street • Roscommon, MI 48653
989-275-4975
Whether it’s a kayaking trip down the AuSable River, a cross-country ski trek along one of our many trails, or a visit to our recreation facility, we’ve got experiences and opportunities for you! Check out the Summer Concert series at the Recreation Center in Roscommon.
EXPERIENCE LIFE IN THE 1930’S
The Great Depression was the worst economic disaster this country has ever experienced. It changed lives. It changed ways of living. It created hardships never before experienced.
When the Great Depression began in 1929, it changed family life from a way of living to a struggle for existence.
Wellington Farm USA provides an opportunity for current generations to witness and experience life lived by your ancestors.
https://www.wellingtonfarmusa.com/
"Crushing it Since 2007"
3039 Beechwood Rd, Rose City, Michigan 48654
(989) 685-9399
2498 N. M-33, Rose City, MI
(989) 965-6395
Tawas Point State Park, located on the end of a sand spit that forms Tawas Bay along Lake Huron, is home to 183 acres of lakeside recreation and has been referred to as the “Cape Cod of the Midwest.” The park is a stopover site for hundreds of migrating birds in the spring and fall, making it a favorite spot for many bird watchers from all over the Midwest.
In operation from 1876 to 2016, Tawas Point Lighthouse is a fascinating attraction for maritime buffs. Tawas Point is a destination for birdwatchers; it also offers spectacular views of sunrises over Lake Huron and sunsets over Tawas Bay.
686 Tawas Beach Road, East Tawas, MI 48730
(517) 930-3806
https://www.michigan.org/property/tawas-point-state-park
"The Game Refuge"
5626 W Rose City Rd
(989) 312-3468
After a long day of fun, a short run into Rose City offers an abundance of dining, entertainment, goods and services.
Faull Inn
206 N Williams St, Rose City, MI
(989) 685-2406
Trapper's Sports Bar & Grill
109 N Williams St, Rose City, MI 48654
(989) 685-3344
The Cedar Tavern & Grill
2246 Shady Shores Rd, Lupton, MI
(989) 473-3900
Long Lake Bar & Grill
5002 N Main St, Long Lake, MI
(989) 257-2017
Coco Cabana's Restaurant
2355 M-33, West Branch, MI 48661
(989) 800-1664
No Limits Pizza
111 E Main St, Rose City, MI 48654
(989) 685-8500
Rose City Café
612 S Bennett St, Rose City, MI 48654
(989) 685-2234
The Daily Scoop Ice Cream & Coffee Shop
114 N Williams Street, Rose City, MI 48654
(989) 685-1112
Sunrise Cafe
3070 Lupton Rd, Lupton, MI
(989) 473-3268
Beef-A-Roo Rose City
2761 N Mio Rd, Rose City, MI 48654
(989) 685-8883
33 North Eats & Treats (Dairy Queen)
309 S Bennett St, Rose City, MI 48654
(989) 685-2703
Subway
103 N Williams St, Rose City, MI 48654
(989) 685-2475
McDonalds
2770 M-33, Rose City, MI 48654
(989) 685-3773
Family Fare Supermarket
2626 M-33, Rose City, MI 48654
(989) 685-2351
Meijer
3691 M-55, West Branch, MI
(989) 787-3020
Rose City Drugs
2640 M-33, Rose City, MI 48654
(989) 685-2141
Walmart Supercenter West Branch
2750 Cook Rd, West Branch, MI 48661
(989) 343-1309
Walgreens Pharmacy
2480 E Houghton Ave, West Branch, MI
(989) 343-6921
Rose City Ace Hardware
2727 M-33, Rose City, MI 48654
(989) 685-3945
Mason's Lumber & Hardware
2493 N, M-33, Rose City, MI 48654
(989) 685-3999
Home Depot West Branch
2892 Cook Rd, West Branch, MI 48661
(989) 345-7601
Tractor Supply West Branch
2050 M-76, West Branch, MI 48661
(989) 343-1511
MyMichigan Medical Center West Branch
2463 S M-30, West Branch, MI 48661
(989) 345-3660
St Joseph Health System, Mio
1392 Maple Dr, Fairview, MI 48621
(989) 848-2723
Ascension St Joseph Hospital
200 Hemlock Rd, Tawas City, MI 48763
(989) 362-3411
Petcare
Starkeeper Kennels
2742 M-33, West Branch, MI 48661
(989) 345-7114
Rea Family Animal Shelter
1367 M-33, West Branch, MI 48661
(989) 343-7387
Ogemaw Veterinary Clinic
1866 M-33, Rose City, MI 48654
(989) 685-3941
Emergency Services
Call 911
Ogemaw County Sheriff
806 Wright St, West Branch, MI 48661
(989) 345-3111
Rose City Area Fire Department
310 N Williams St, Rose City, MI 48654
(989) 685-2339