The drive
River Road National Scenic Byway runs through the Huron National Forest, paralleling the Au Sable River, which was historically used to float white pine logs to sawmill towns on Lake Huron. This drive starts in Oscoda, where the byway ends at US 23 a few blocks from the lake, and runs west up River Road.
Along the byway are the Lumberman's Monument, which has a visitors center on Michigan's 19th-century lumber industry, and the Iargo Springs Interpretive Site. The route offers scenic overlooks of the river, hiking and cross-country skiing trails, camping and fishing. It became a National Forest Scenic Byway in 1988 and a National Scenic Byway in 2005.
The drive is 16.6 miles and takes about 25 minutes. River Road is maintained by the Iosco County Road Commission.
Along the way
- Oscoda
- Lumberman's Monument
- M-65
Good to know
- The byway has scenic overlooks and interpretive sites along the river.
- River Road is a county road, maintained by the Iosco County Road Commission; the M-65 section is maintained by MDOT.
- For current closures, use MiDrive.
Open all year, weather permitting. Roads close for snow, fire, storms and repairs: before you set off, check MDOT MiDrive.
Questions about this drive
How long does River Road Scenic Byway take to drive?
The drive from Oscoda west on River Road is 16.6 miles and takes about 25 minutes.
What is on River Road National Scenic Byway?
The Lumberman's Monument, with a visitors center on the 19th-century lumber industry, and the Iargo Springs Interpretive Site are along the byway.
Where does River Road Scenic Byway start?
At Oscoda, where the byway meets US 23 a few blocks from Lake Huron; it runs west through Huron National Forest.
What you get in the app
Free on iPhone and Android. CarPlay and Android Auto come with Apex.
More drives near here
Distance, time, elevation, curves and intensity are from Carve's route. Checked 2026-10-28.