Fishing

7 Reasons to Visit Gaylord, MI this Summer

May 26, 2023 / maddendev

There’s no question about it…Northern Michigan summers are pure bliss.  If you haven’t experienced one yet, it’s high time to head to Gaylord, Michigan to see what all the fuss is about!  So what does the “Alpine Village” have in store for you? Biking Gaylord is recognized as a top biking destination!  The scene here is diverse, from picturesque paved routes to undulating single tracks at Aspen Park, Shingle Mill Pathway and Pine Baron Pathway to the crown jewel of all trails – the North Central State Trail.  Newly expanded and now running 73 miles from Waters all the way to Mackinaw City, this former railroad line is covered with a crushed limestone surface.  Perfect for families out for an afternoon ride or experienced cyclists looking for a challenge, the North Central State Trail meanders through some of the loveliest countryside in Northern Michigan.  Check out the new Gaylord Gateway Trailhead conveniently located downtown!  If you’re more of an adrenaline junkie, then you won’t want to miss the 82-mile High Country Pathway.  Located in the heart of the Pigeon River Country State Forest, this extensive and rustic trail is recognized as having “Epic” status by the International Mountain Bike Association .  Hiking If you lack pedal power but still want to hit the trails, hiking is the way to go!  Spend a leisurely afternoon weaving through the trails at Aspen Park.  With rolling hills, open fields, plentiful wildlife and a quaint pond, you can lose track of time on these paved and unpaved trails.  Those looking for an all-day excursion or even a weekend of backpacking can head for the Jordan Valley Pathway, an 18.8-mile loop with a rustic campground at the halfway point.  Be ready for stunning vistas, high ridges and skirting along the banks of the striking Jordan River.  If you’re limited on time, venture out on the Deadman’s Hill Loop for a 3-mile taste of this exceptional trail.  Ready to visit?  Request your free Visitor’s Guide here!   Elk Viewing While you’re out enjoying Gaylord’s plentiful trail systems, keep your eyes peeled to catch a glimpse of one of the largest free-roaming elk herds east of the Mississippi.  The Pigeon River Country State Forest is home to a herd of over 1,000 of these magnificent animals, and while they are always on the go, there are popular viewing areas they frequent.  Exploring Pigeon River country is a great escape, but your schedule may not allow you to spend a day searching for elk.  For a guaranteed sighting, head to the City Elk Park, just a few blocks from the downtown district.  The City of Gaylord maintains this herd of over 30 animals and they are known for greeting visitors right at the fence. MORE

5 Things to Know About Fishing in Otsego County

May 24, 2023 / maddendev

Out See GoBy Chris Engle, contributor Take a few blind steps within Otsego County and you’re bound to get a wet foot. With dozens of public lakes and the headwaters of five major trout streams, there’s no shortage of water to explore as an angler — whether that’s by boat, canoe, kayak, wading or walking. MORE

5 Ways to Enjoy the Water in Gaylord, Michigan

Jul 05, 2022 / maddendev

Water wonderland is an understatement.  How do you refer to an All Outdoors paradise bursting with over 90 inland lakes and the headwaters of 5 rivers?  Simply stated, it’s Gaylord, Michigan. How you choose to spend your sun-drenched days in the Mecca of lakes and rivers is up to you.  The Gaylord area offers a sampling of everything water lovers are hungry for – boating, kayaking, fishing, lazing on the beach and even floating down the river.  With convenient outfitters offering up everything you’ll need to get your toes or line wet, enjoying our H2O couldn’t get any easier. MORE

7 Unexpected Reasons to Visit Gaylord, Michigan

Feb 16, 2022 / maddendev

Is it time to start planning your next Michigan vacation?  In a state overflowing with sparkling lakes, clear rivers, untamed wilderness, an assortment of themed festivals, unique attractions and unending charm around every turn, choosing just one location can be a daunting task.  We’re here to help you narrow down your search.  Set your compass for Gaylord, Michigan and find everything you’ve been looking for! Plan your next trip with our free Visitor’s Guide If you’ve done your research, then you already know a little about us.  Sitting smack dab on the 45th parallel, Gaylord is (quite lovingly and literally) the heart of the northern Lower Peninsula.  Easy access off I-75 makes getting here a pinch, and once you’ve arrived, we’re quite sure you’ll never want to leave.  An outdoor lover’s paradise, our four seasons each offer distinct recreational opportunities for visitors of any age, ability and thrill-seeking level!  The best part?  While we exude the rustic up north charm you’ve been searching for, our community is filled with all the comforts you desire – shopping, restaurants, spas and resorts. MORE

Nature Has Something to Say

Mar 27, 2020 / maddendev

By Christy Walcott Since meeting my husband, Andy, I have attended countless antique car shows.  Don’t get me wrong, classic autos are intriguing from their unique designs to history filled with character, however, a girl can get antsy at times. A good friend let me in on a little secret one exceptionally steamy June day on the pavement.  Shelly was a regular on the car show circuit and asked me to help her look for letters one day after we had walked the perfectly parked exhibition several times. MORE

Welcome to Otsego Lake, where anything’s possible anywhere

Jan 04, 2019 / maddendev

Out See GoBy Chris Engle, contributor It was a normal, chilly morning on Otsego Lake Dec. 15 when a fish thumped the rod I’d been jigging. I was after walleye and this felt exactly like one, as the heavy, pulsing tugs bent my rod in a sharp arc. MORE