AU TRAIN SELF-GUIDED TOUR FIELD GUIDE
Paddling Au Train Lake to Doucette: a 9‑mile, self‑guided glide into Hiawatha National Forest
This guide covers the self‑guided, approximately 9‑mile paddle from the Au Train boat launch to Doucette Bridge — useful for planning time, route stops, and what to expect onshore.
Paddling Au Train Lake to Doucette: a 9‑mile, self‑guided glide into Hiawatha National Forest.
Set off from the Au Train boat launch and let a lazy current carry you across Au Train Lake toward Cameron Crossing Bridge, where the route slips into the shelter of Hiawatha National Forest. The Au Train Lake to Doucette outing is a self‑guided, family‑ and pet‑friendly paddle of roughly 9 miles that blends open‑water lake stretches with sandy beach layovers and basic onshore facilities.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Open lake crossing into forested river corridor
Begin at the Au Train boat launch and follow the gentle current across the lake toward Cameron Crossing Bridge; beyond that point the waterway leads into the Hiawatha National Forest en route to Doucette Bridge.
Sandy beaches and simple comforts
Along the roughly 7‑mile paddling segment toward Doucette Bridge you’ll encounter multiple beach areas and at least one outhouse facility, providing occasional onshore respite during the daylong outing.
A trip built for families — and pets
Designed as a self‑guided experience with easy access and shore stops, this paddle is noted for being family‑ and pet‑friendly, making it well suited to groups looking for a relaxed day on the water.
What the day feels like
What the day feels like
The outing unfolds as a measured day on the water: a lake crossing launched from the local boat ramp, a steady follow of a lazy current past beaches and under Cameron Crossing Bridge, and a continued paddle of approximately seven miles through forested shoreline to Doucette Bridge. Expect a self‑guided rhythm — frequent short stops on sandy shorelines, brief breaks at basic facilities, and stretches of calm paddling that reward a steady, relaxed pace.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this trip works for — and who should look elsewhere.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Plan a full day: the route covers approximately 9 miles and typically requires about 5–7 hours to complete.
Because this is a self‑guided paddle, bring appropriate paddling equipment, personal flotation devices, sun and weather protection, food and water, and items for beach stops.
Launch from the Au Train boat launch and expect multiple beach areas and at least one outhouse facility along the route for short breaks.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
Is this trip guided or self‑guided?
This is a self‑guided paddle.
How long is the route and how much time should I budget?
The outing covers roughly 9 miles and typically takes about 5–7 hours.
Where does the trip start and finish?
The route launches at the Au Train boat launch and proceeds to the mouth of the Au Train River, following the current past Cameron Crossing Bridge and ending near Doucette Bridge.
Are there places to stop onshore?
Yes — the route includes many beach areas and at least one outhouse facility for breaks.
Can I bring my dog or travel with children?
Yes — the experience is described as family‑ and pet‑friendly.
Who operates or publishes this outing information?
The operator listed for this route is UP Vacation.