Mosquito Beach and River

Tucked between sandstone cliffs and forested bluffs, Mosquito Beach is a quiet, scenic rest stop we visit on both the Paddler’s Choice and Paddle & Hike Tours. This remote spot, only accessible by kayak or by foot, offers more than just a break — it’s a slice of untamed Michigan wilderness with deep roots and rich natural beauty.

At the mouth of the Mosquito River, you can watch the fresh, tannin-colored water flow into the vast blue of Lake Superior — a striking blend of forces that has shaped this shoreline for thousands of years. Historically, this area was part of the seasonal travel and fishing routes used by the Anishinaabe (Ojibwa) people, who respected the river and lake as life-giving forces. Traces of their presence, including fishing camps and tool remnants, have been found throughout the Pictured Rocks area.

Wildlife & Natural Surroundings

Birdlife includes bald eagles, loons, gulls, and warblers flitting through the forest.
In the water, the Mosquito River is known to carry brook trout, and during certain times of year, coho salmon and steelhead move through the river toward their spawning grounds. These cool, clear waters are critical to the ecosystem and support a range of native fish.

Things to Explore From the Beach
After lunch or a swim, many guests take a short walk to two nearby natural features:
Lover’s Leap Arch – one of the most dramatic rock formations along the lakeshore. It appears as though you could leap from one cliff to another, though the name is more legend than reality.
Mosquito Falls – a peaceful forest waterfall cascading over sandstone shelves, just upstream on a trail winding through quiet woods.