Lakes & Rivers

Celebrate National Travel & Tourism Week

May 01, 2025 / maddendev

There’s no denying travel is a favorite hobby among Americans, but maybe it’s time to change our perspective and recognize it as a priority moving forward. MORE

Discover Otsego County’s Five Fabulous Rivers

Mar 17, 2025 / Val Wright

Many counties are lucky to have one river flowing through their area, but here in Otsego County, we hit the jackpot with not one, not two, but five stunning rivers! Let’s take a dive into each of these waterways and explore why they’re the heart and soul of our beautiful region. MORE

7 Reasons to Visit Gaylord, MI this Summer

/ 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? Please keep in mind that our forests, trails and rivers may have been affected by the ice storm at the end of March. MORE

5 Things to Know About Fishing in Otsego County

/ maddendev

Out See Go - By 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

/ 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 land 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

Discover “The Pigeon”

/ maddendev

Nothing says “All Outdoors” quite like the Pigeon River Country State Forest. This unspoiled wilderness stretching over 3 counties and 114,000 acres contains seemingly endless miles of trails, rustic campgrounds and unique sinkhole lakes, along with being home to one of the largest free-roaming elk herds east of the Mississippi. Photo by Datema Media Locally known as “The Pigeon,” this pristine forest beckons to outdoor lovers looking for an off-the-grid experience. And if you’re not sure where to start, we have a few suggestions for you: TRAILSImmerse yourself in the forest on some of the most scenic and rugged trails in the Lower Peninsula. Trek out for a few hours on the Towerman’s Watch Pathway or pack up all your gear and tackle the Shinglemill Pathway. MORE

Exploring Gaylord’s Sinkhole Lakes

/ maddendev

Whether lounging at the beach, dipping in to cool off or paddling along a forested shoreline, we are naturally drawn to water. When you need a true escape into nature coupled with the peace that only water can bring, seek out the Pigeon River Country State Forest’s coveted sinkhole lakes. MORE

Gaylord’s Peaceful Places

/ maddendev

Wide open spaces – that’s what so many of us crave. Room to roam and captivating scenery that takes our attention away from our phone, laptop and TV. Gaylord, Michigan is a haven of peaceful places, whether you’re looking to be on the water or dry land.  Here are a few of our favorites, along with some hidden gems you may not have heard of: Big Chub Lake A short drive past Otsego Lake and a few turns will lead you to Big Chub Lake. With only a scattering of homes along the shoreline and nature greeting you from every angle, Big Chub Lake is a true up north experience. A small boat ramp welcomes fishermen or kayakers to easily launch their vessels and even stand up paddleboards dot the surface of these calm waters.  Deer and bald eagles frequent this forest lake and a charming canal affords you the opportunity to paddle your way to adjoining lakes.  Sturgeon River Preserve With the recent addition of a boardwalk at the trailhead, Sturgeon River Preserve offers one of the loveliest sections of universally accessible pathway in our area. Meander along the Sturgeon River for the first stretch of this short but sweet trail, linger at the lookout, then continue along the rustic footpath through forests and small fields. This secluded hike is less than one mile, so don’t be surprised if you circle back for seconds. MORE