This byway is in northeast Michigan about 90 miles north of Saginaw. It travels alongside the AuSable River between Oscoda and Hale. From Oscoda the byway follows River Road to MI 65, which it follows into Hale. The byway is 30 miles long and is open year-round. The roads followed are two-lane paved roads safe for all types of vehicles.

The River Road scenic byway travels across the AuSable River Valley, following a portion of an early Indian trail along the AuSable River. The trail connected a Chippewa village at the mouth of the Riviere aux Sables (River of Sand) with the main north-south trails of interior Michigan. There are several platforms on the high banks above the river that provide panoramic views of the river and the surrounding forest.

Four dams constructed on the river have created thousands of acres of tree-lined lakes that offer excellent fishing and boating opportunities. Anglers will find northern pike, bass, walleye, and muskie in the lakes.

Those interested in prolonging their stay will find several campgrounds. Old Orchard Park is a highly developed park on the banks of the AuSable River with 500 campsites. Hookups are available at 200 of the campsites. The park also has restrooms, showers, picnic areas, swimming beach, and drinking water. Rollways and Monument Campgrounds provide a total of 40 campsites with picnic tables, fire rings, drinking water, and restrooms. Two other national forest campgrounds are located a short distance off the byway that provide an additional 45 campsites to choose from.

Midway along the byway is Lumbermens' Monument. This nine-foot bronze statue was erected in 1932 as a memorial to Michigan's logging era. A visitor center has information on the monument and the surrounding area. Guided walks of the grounds are given.

Farther west on the byway is the Iargo Springs Interpretive Site. The Chippewa once used this site for pow-wows with as many as 500 gathering at one time. They believed the springs held mystical or curative powers. An overlook provides views of the AuSable River Valley.

Information: Huron-Manistee National Forest, 1755 S Mitchell St, Cadillac MI 49601 / 517-739-0728