Looking downstream from the Smiley Bridge. Photo by Dave Arscott.

The Smiley Bridge Access is 9.5 mi (15.3 km) downstream from Kratka Crossing and 10.6 mi (17.1 km) from the first access site in Thief River Falls (Finsbury Park). The river banks are much more forested in this reach; and toward Thief River Falls, residential lots line the banks. Boulder riffles become more frequent and might create a few problems for passage at low flow.

The Smiley Bridge Access is well maintained and large enough for great picniking and a little frisbee to stretch your legs. Photo by D. Arscott.