Pigeon River (Michigan) facts for kids

Pigeon River is a name used for several different rivers in the U.S. state of Michigan. It can be a bit confusing because more than one river shares this name! These rivers are important parts of Michigan's natural landscape, flowing through different counties and eventually reaching larger lakes or other rivers.

What is a Pigeon River?

When you hear "Pigeon River" in Michigan, it's important to know which one people are talking about. There are four main rivers with this name, each in a different part of the state. They all have unique paths and play different roles in their local environments.

Pigeon River in Huron County

This Pigeon River is located in Huron County, which is in the area often called "the Thumb" of Michigan. This river flows towards the west and then north. It eventually empties into the Saginaw Bay of Lake Huron, which is one of the Great Lakes.

Pigeon River in Mullett Lake

Another Pigeon River starts in Otsego County. It flows mostly north through Montmorency and Cheboygan counties. This river then flows into Mullett Lake, a large and beautiful lake in northern Michigan.

South Branch Pigeon River

This river also has a smaller stream that feeds into it, called the South Branch Pigeon River. This branch is a tributary, which means it's a smaller stream or river that flows into a larger one. The South Branch is also located in Otsego County.

Pigeon River in Ottawa County

This Pigeon River begins in Ottawa County, specifically in a place called Olive Township. It flows from east to west. Its journey takes it into Pigeon Lake, and then from Pigeon Lake, it continues its flow into Lake Michigan at a spot called Port Sheldon.

Pigeon River in St. Joseph River

The fourth Pigeon River actually starts in northern Indiana. It flows mostly westward as it enters southern Michigan. This river eventually joins the St. Joseph River. The place where they meet is close to the Michigan-Indiana border, northwest of Elkhart, Indiana.