The Ford River Rouge Complex employed over 100,000 workers in the 1930s, turning raw materials into vehicles on a scale never seen before.  Prior to automobiles, Eagle boats were produced at the site.  Currently, the site houses six Ford factories on 600 acres as well as steel making operations now owned by AK Steel.  The Ford truck plant features one of the world's largest green roofs and other stormwater amenities.

Paddlers who venture into the shipping channel can get a close up view but may be told to leave by the AK Steel security who must monitor the site.