West Branch sits on the West Branch of the Rifle River, in Northeast Michigan. It is the town center for Ogemaw County and features a charming Victorian downtown. The natural beauty of the Sunrise Side of Michigan draws guests to West Branch bed and breakfasts throughout the year.

West Branch is located in the lovely Rifle River Valley. Hike, cross-country ski and snowmobile throughout the Rifle River Recreation Area, or launch a canoe and float down the scenic Rifle River. Canoe rental is available at several locations – ask any bed and breakfast innkeepers where they can be found. The river is especially lovely in the fall, when the trees of Ogemaw Hills are dressed in vibrant colors.

The Ogemaw Hills Pathway through the AuSable State Forest is good for hiking, biking and cross-country skiing. It is close to West Branch, and bikers may choose to bike to the path from a bed and breakfast. Cycling is also popular on the sparsely used roads of rural Northeast Michigan when there isn’t snow on the ground.

When there is snow, people bring cross-country skis, snowshoes and snowmobiles to the bed and breakfast. There are nearly 100 miles of dedicated snowmobile trails in Ogemaw County, and many trails dedicated to cross-country skiing. There are good spots for every winter activity here, including ice fishing.

Attractions aren’t limited to the land around West Branch. It is fun to browse the Victorian downtown, particularly on Fabulous Fridays; Fabulous Friday Art in the Streets and Fabulous Friday Show Off Your Iron are just two examples of good excuses to celebrate in West Branch. People congregate at farmers markets and for the summer music series in Irons Park. Motorcyclists gather during the Ogemaw Hills Bike Week in July, and history artists flock to the Victorian Art Fair in August. West Branch, Michigan is a happening place.