Walking or Hiking

🚤 Au Gres Public Access Boat Ramp and Breakwall

Tucked at the end of Main Street in Au Gres, the Public Access Boat Ramp and Breakwall is more than just a launch point—it’s a peaceful destination in its own right. This spot offers direct access to Saginaw Bay for boaters and anglers, with a well-maintained concrete ramp and ample parking for trailers. It’s a favorite launch site for early-morning fishermen and summer boating enthusiasts looking to explore the open water.

But even if you’re not launching a boat, the breakwall is a local hidden gem. Stretching out into the bay, this narrow path between rocks offers a breathtaking, unobstructed view of the horizon. Whether you're catching the vivid colors of a Lake Huron sunrise or just taking your dog for a calming morning walk, it's a serene escape surrounded by water and sky.

For us, it’s also a deeply personal place. Some of our favorite mornings have been spent here with Ava, our 14-year-old Siberian Husky, who’s grown up walking this path. Rain or shine, she leads the way toward the rising sun, pausing to breathe in the lake air or simply enjoy the silence.

Visitors love it for:

📸 Photography — especially sunrise and sunset shots
🐾 Dog walks and quiet reflection
🎣 Fishing along the rocks
🚤 Easy boat access to Lake Huron and beyond

🌿 Point Au Gres Nature Lookout

Nestled along the shoreline of Lake Huron in Au Gres, Michigan, the Point Au Gres Nature Lookout is a peaceful boardwalk and nature preserve that offers visitors a quiet escape into the wild beauty of Northeast Michigan. Whether you're a birdwatcher, nature lover, photographer, or just looking for a relaxing spot to enjoy the water, this hidden gem is worth the stop.

A Scenic Walk Through Marshland Beauty

At the heart of this preserve is a 600-foot lighted boardwalk that stretches into a shallow, marshy bay. As you walk out toward the observation platform, you'll be surrounded by a mix of cattails, lily pads, and gentle lake waves—ideal conditions for spotting migratory birds, ducks, geese, swans, herons, turtles, frogs, and other marsh wildlife.

This seasonal floodplain provides a unique environment that changes throughout the year, offering a dynamic and ever-surprising experience for returning visitors.

Great for Families and Small Gatherings

Located conveniently off the main road, the lookout features a pavilion in the parking lot, perfect for family picnics, school outings, or a casual lunch after a nature walk. The parking area is spacious, trailer-friendly, and handicap accessible, making it easy for everyone to enjoy the preserve.

Why Visitors Love It

📸 Photography Paradise – The sunrise views over Lake Huron and wildlife activity in the reeds make this a favorite among local photographers.

🕊 Birdwatching Hotspot – Seasonal migrations mean you might spot something new every time you visit.

🧺 Perfect Picnic Spot – The on-site pavilion adds a convenient shelter from sun or rain while you relax and enjoy the view.

Plan Your Visit

The Point Au Gres Nature Lookout is located just northeast of downtown Au Gres and is open year-round. There are no fees or permits required—just bring your camera, binoculars, or lunch, and enjoy the natural beauty of Michigan’s coastal wetlands.