Jordan River

Flowing through Antrim and Charlevoix Counties before joining Lake Charlevoix, the Jordan River is one of Michigan’s most celebrated coldwater rivers. Considered one of Michigan’s premier coldwater streams, the Jordan River is designated as a Natural River by the State of Michigan and is widely recognized for its exceptional trout fishery. Known for its crystal-clear water, remote forested setting, and ecological significance, the Jordan River Valley remains one of Northern Michigan’s most treasured landscapes. Over the past several decades, Conservation Resource Alliance (CRA) has worked throughout the watershed to replace failing road-stream crossings, reconnect fragmented habitat, reduce sediment pollution, and restore natural river function.

In fall 2025, CRA and project partners reached a major milestone in the watershed by completing the final two undersized crossings on the Jordan River’s mainstem at Jordan River Road East and West, along with a major crossing replacement on Deer Creek at Fuller Road. Together, these projects reconnected more than 40 miles of the Jordan River and nearly 10 miles of Deer Creek while improving fish passage, reducing erosion, and enhancing water quality. CRA is now advancing the next phase of restoration work across the watershed, including additional crossing replacements on Marvon Creek, Deer Creek, and tributaries throughout the Jordan River Valley—continuing the long-term effort to create a fully connected and healthy river system.