Alanson – River, Trail and Riverfest

Several travel interests come together in Alanson: recreational opportunities on the Crooked River, the North Western State Trail, the annual Riverfest in August, as well as a museum and a riverfront promenade. The river, trail, and festival offer different points of interest, depending on whether you want to focus on activities on the water, outdoor exercise, or a specific event date.

River and trail: water activities and routes

The Crooked River flows through Alanson and offers opportunities for canoeing, kayaking, and fishing. The river is navigable for recreational boats; a lock and a dam are located near Alanson. This means two locations should be distinguished: the river runs through the town, while the lock and dam are in the surrounding area. The water activities mentioned are associated with the river, while boating also involves the nearby area.

The North Western State Trail is 32 miles long and connects Petoskey, Alanson, Pellston, and Mackinaw City. In Alanson, it is suitable for hiking, biking, and horseback riding. The connection between the four communities describes the trail as a regional route; at the same time, Alanson itself is a place where these activities are possible. Compared with the Crooked River, the trail is for land-based activities, while canoeing, kayaking, and fishing are associated with the river. This makes it possible to distinguish the two options by the type of recreation you prefer.

Riverfest in August

Alanson hosts its annual Riverfest in August. The community festival features live music, food vendor stalls, a parade, and family-friendly activities. Unlike the river and trail, it is a specific event and therefore a separate consideration when choosing when to travel.

Museum and riverside walk

The Inland Water Route Historical Museum, also called the Inland Water Route Historical Society Museum, is located on River Street and is among Alanson’s summer recreational offerings. It provides a cultural point of interest alongside the recreational opportunities on the water and trail. Visitors can also walk along a riverfront promenade. The promenade offers its own opportunity for a walk by the water; the trail is also suitable for biking and horseback riding, in addition to hiking. The museum is one of the summer offerings; Riverfest takes place annually in August.

Plan your stay around the occasion

Riverfest takes place on an annual date in August; the trail offers a range of activities on land, while the Crooked River provides opportunities on the water. The museum and riverfront promenade round out these options with a cultural point of interest and a riverside walk. If you are traveling for the festival, check its exact dates before booking.

Discover more destinations: Petoskey, Pellston, Harbor Springs.

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