Days River
The Days River is a small stream in Delta County on Michigan’s Upper [Peninsula of Michigan|Upper Peninsula]. It flows generally north–northeast through mixed forest and glacial lakeplain to enter Little Bay [de Noc] on Lake Michigan.
Course
Headwaters arise in interior wetlands and small springs south of Little Bay de Noc. From there the river follows a meandering course across low-relief terrain, passing through forest and riparian marsh before reaching Little Bay de Noc along the Lake Michigan shoreline.
Natural history
Geology and landforms
The basin occupies glacial sediments of the Lake Michigan lakeplain, with sandy and gravelly deposits, low dunes near the bay, and scattered peat/wetland pockets along the channel. The gentle gradient produces cutbanks, small bars, and seasonal floodplain backwaters near the mouth.
Plants and wildlife
Upland forests in the watershed include northern hardwoods and mixed conifers; riparian areas support alder thickets, sedge meadows, and emergent marsh. Shaded, cool tributary segments and spring inputs provide habitat for cold- to cool-water fishes, while the lower river and bay margin support a mix of warm-water species typical of Little Bay de Noc’s nearshore.