Port Huron Float Down is an annual community event, which takes place on the third Sunday in August in Port Huron, Michigan. This favorite activity has been an established tradition since 1977. Hundreds of people hop onto their floats, kayaks, or boats, and drift along the Saint Clair River, enjoying some of the last summer days before fall.
Floats & Boats Used
Participants of Port Huron Float Down use various floating devices to take part in the adventure. These include inflatable rafts, personal floatation devices or life jackets, oars, paddles, and swim fins, which also help people stay on an 8-mile (13 km) course downstream to Chrysler Beach. Some use kayaks and try to actively direct their boats, while others chill out, sunbathe, and let the current guide them along the river.
Weather Precautions
Beware of the strong currents under the Blue Water Bridges and the wind direction. With north wind, the route takes about 3 hours, while the south wind can make it two times longer. The water temperatures in August can also drop to 60-70 degrees Fahrenheit (15-17 °C), so it's recommended to dress appropriately for the weather.
Schedule & Location
The float down starts at around 1 pm, near Lighthouse Beach in Port Huron and ends at Chrysler Beach in Marysville, MI. The best spots to watch Port Huron Float Down from the shore are Kiefer Park, Lincoln Park, Edison Parkway, The Blue Water Bridges, and Pine Grove Park. The participation doesn't require any fees or tickets and is completely free.
History of the Float Down
The tradition of floating down the St. Clair River dates back to mid-century times. However in 1986, after a storm, the United States Coast Guard shut down the fun event because participants were getting into the shipping channel and crossing into Canada. The event was officially reinstated in 2008 with about 3,000 floaters descending the St. Clair River every year.
