Wolverine and the Sturgeon River

In the southern end of the county sits the little village of Wolverine, which proudly calls itself “Sturgeon River Country.” The village grew up along the river, and the Sturgeon is still the reason most people come.

The Sturgeon is the fastest-flowing river in the Lower Peninsula, dropping close to fifteen feet every mile, which keeps the water cold, clear, and lively. That makes it a favorite two ways: it’s a state-designated Blue Ribbon trout stream, prized by fly anglers for its brown and rainbow trout, and its quick current and tight bends make for an exciting tube, kayak, or canoe run in summer. From Wolverine the river rushes north through the Mackinaw State Forest and on into Burt Lake.

For buyers, this corner of the county is about woods, water, and elbow room — smaller price tags, plenty of state forest nearby, and the river running through it. If you’re looking at riverfront, take a close look at the bank and the current, and remember the rural basics: a private well and septic system (see the well-and-septic note).