Michigan · Mecosta / Isabella Co.

Chippewa River

Mecosta / Isabella Co. · 90 mi · Class Riffles

Optimal: 150–600 CFS · USGS #04154000

283CFS

3.58 ft gauge height

Optimal

→Stable

Avg flow: 340 cfsHist. median: 306 cfsUSGS #04154000

None

About

From the Mecosta County headwaters through Mt. Pleasant to Midland, the Chippewa River runs 90 miles of riffles and gentle current at an average 340 CFS. The upper sections through Mecosta County stay narrow and wooded, while the lower stretch from Mt. Pleasant downstream opens wider with gentler gradients. Optimal flows run 150–600 CFS on USGS gauge 04154000. The Saginaw Chippewa called this homeland before European contact, and the state designated it a water trail in 2015. Chippewa River Outfitters provides gear and shuttles for paddlers working the system.

Solunar Fishing Activity

🌒

Waxing Crescent

15% illumination

Poor

★ Moon overhead
9:10 AM

Moonrise
1:27 PM

Moonset
4:53 AM

★ Moon underfoot
9:10 PM

Next full moon: May 3111 days

Outfitters

Chippewa River Outfitters

Canoe and kayak rentals near Mt. Pleasant

10-Year Flow Patterns

See 10 years of flow patterns for this river — historical analysis is a Pro feature.Upgrade to Pro →

Your Optimal Range

Set your personal optimal CFS window per river — custom ranges are a Pro feature.Upgrade to Pro →

Data Quality

River conditions are community-verified. CFS ranges, difficulty ratings, and access points may not reflect every flow level or seasonal change. Always check current conditions, scout unfamiliar rapids, and paddle within your skill level.

Know the Chippewa River? Your local knowledge makes this page better for every paddler, angler, and guide who comes after you.

Improve This River →