Au Gres lies on the Au Gres River, about two miles upstream from where it flows into Saginaw Bay in Lake Huron. Water is central to many local activities: you can explore a paddling route, a boat launch, and a riverfront promenade. There are also things to do in town, from a disc golf course to a seasonal farmer’s market.
River, Waterfront, and Trails
The Au Gres River Excursion is a short, leisurely paddling route from Point Lookout Harbor at the river mouth north to Au Gres City Park. Check water conditions and access before paddling. If you’re looking for another way to access the water, Au Gres City Park has a small boat launch with access to Saginaw Bay and Lake Huron via the Au Gres River. Conditions can change here, too.
The 0.5-mile riverfront promenade along the Au Gres River to Saginaw Bay offers another way to orient yourself by the water. The city also has a pedestrian bridge to the downtown area. These are two distinct routes: the promenade follows the river, while the bridge leads toward downtown. At the ends of Main Street and Detroit Street, there are also two accessible, municipal, public access points to the Au Gres River.
The city’s recently completed trail project runs from Au Gres City Park via North Main Street and South Main Street to the Au Gres State Boat Access Site at the mouth of the Au Gres River. Its route is therefore different from that of the riverfront promenade. Conditions along the trail may change, so check for current information before setting out.
City Amenities and Your Stay
Au Gres Riverside Park has a seasonal splash pad; check the dates before your trip. The park also has 109 spaces available to rent by the day, week, or month. Water, sewer, and electrical hookups are available. The number of spaces and rental terms may change, so confirm availability in advance.
Old Airport Disc Golf Course is on Industrial Parkway near Court Street. The 18-hole course was established in 1999 and is free for public use; access details may change. Kristin’s Bark Park is located on the grounds of the municipal Au Gres Riverfront Campground Facility. The city’s amenities also include the pedestrian bridge to the downtown area.
Nearby, Point Au Gres Park offers access to more than 900 feet of sandy beach. The county park is seasonal and weather-dependent. This beach is a separate destination from the local attractions along the Au Gres River.
History and Seasonal Discoveries
The Arenac County Historical Society presents local, social, and family history through exhibits, artifacts, and documents. The society is currently housed in the former Au Gres Methodist Church, built around 1883. Visitors interested in the area’s history will find a cultural highlight here. The historic Au Gres Chapel in the Park at KinderPlatz Park is available to rent for weddings. Availability and fees may change; confirm them before making specific plans.
The Au Gres Farmer’s Market takes place on Fridays and Saturdays from June through August at the Riverside Park Pavilion. Check the dates for the current season before your trip. At Modern Craft Wine’s Au Gres tasting room, each guest can choose up to eight samples from the available wine selection; there is no limit on the number of bottles purchased to take home. Tasting policies may change, so confirm them before your visit.
The options vary not only by activity but also by conditions: the paddling route depends on water and access, while the market and splash pad are seasonal. If your stay includes several of these activities, it’s worth checking the dates and conditions mentioned for each in advance.
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Go to the main travel overview: Arenac County.
