Otsego Lake

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

Celebrate National Travel & Tourism Week

Apr 27, 2023 / maddendev

While we all love vacationing, creating memories and enjoying new experiences, there’s more to travel than meets the eye.  Not only can the power of travel strengthen families, improve your health and even make you more productive at work, but it’s also one of the most crucial industries in our nation.  In recognition of National Travel & Tourism Week, taking place May 7-13, your friends at the Gaylord Area Convention & Tourism Bureau encourage you to get out and explore!  Family Ties Travel is one of the most effective ways to reconnect with your family.  Spending quality time together means leaving behind chores, homework and that ever-growing honey-do list.  Take photos of your loved ones making new memories together and consider stepping out of your comfort zone to experience something new and adventurous!  Gaylord Family Highlights For the little ones, plan a trip to the Call of the Wild Museum.  This quaint wildlife museum tops many lists of “when I was young” memories.  And if you think you’ve already seen it all, they just added an interactive display on the Great Lakes.  After touring the extensive museum (and picking out your favorite fudge from the gift shop), treat yourselves to a round of mini golf or a quick race around the go-cart track!   Healthy Habits Would you believe that travel can actually have health benefits?  How much better can it get?!  Scratching your travel itch can greatly relieve everyday stress, which can then improve your heart health, lower your blood pressure, help you sleep better and simply create a sense of well-being.  Another bonus to travel is that you’ll exercise without even realizing it.  Seeking new experiences could mean kayaking, biking or fishing, but even walking downtown to do some window shopping will give you a much-needed boost! Being Healthy in Gaylord The All Outdoors paradise offered in Gaylord and the surrounding area is a healthy haven for visitors!  Bring your bicycles and leisurely cruise along the new southern trail extension of the North Central State Trail.  Ride along scenic Otsego Lake and even stop at the Otsego Lake State Park to take a refreshing dip to cool off.  For the expert cyclist, head north from downtown and bike as many of the 62-miles stretching to Mackinaw City as your heart desires!  Increased Productivity Employers provide vacation time so their employees can recharge.  While a staycation may offer you the opportunity to take care of home improvement projects that leave you feeling accomplished, using your time for travel has even greater benefits.  Unplugging from having set tasks to complete gives you the chance to truly relax, allowing you to return to work feeling refreshed and ready to take greater initiative.  How to Unplug in Gaylord Leave your phone and laptop behind and set out to the Pigeon River Country State Forest.  Adventure awaits on every winding dirt road throughout “The Pigeon” and you can look forward to breathtaking lakes and rivers, endless miles of hiking and biking trails and even catching a glimpse of one of the largest free-roaming elk herds east of the Mississippi. MORE

Spring Is Here & You Should Be, Too!

Mar 27, 2023 / maddendev

By Paul Beachnau We are so blessed to live in a four-season community. Just when we run out of patience with one season, we are able to look forward to the next with renewed vigor. With the first official day of spring behind us, I am enthusiastically joining the “let’s hurry up and get this snow melted!” bandwagon. MORE

Snow Days in Gaylord, Michigan

Nov 28, 2022 / maddendev

What will your wide-open winter look like in Gaylord, Michigan?  Let us walk you through the next few months in our winter wonderland… Downhill Skiing, Snowboarding & TubingTreetops Resort and Otsego Resort are your winter hotspots this season – offering up slopes and terrain parks that will get your adrenaline pumping. Both perched atop valleys, downhill skiers and snowboarders will love our epic elevation at 1,380 feet above sea level.  Legs a little wobbly?  There’s no skill required to sail downhill on a tube with the biggest smile you’ve ever had on your face.  The latest snow-making technology helps winter start early at both resorts! 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

We’ve Got Your Peaceful Places

Aug 24, 2021 / 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 phones, laptops and TVs.  We all have those favorite places that feel like home – maybe just a block away from your living room or maybe hundreds of miles away. Gaylord, Michigan is a haven for 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 LakeA short drive past Otsego Lake and a few turns will lead you to Big Chub Lake.  With only a scattering of homes along the shore 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.  Read our full Chain Lakes blog for more information on that adventure! MORE

Your All Outdoors Autumn

Sep 27, 2019 / maddendev

By Paul Beachnau While the days are getting shorter and everyone is basking in the first few days of fall, there is still plenty of time to get “all outdoors” and enjoy the beauty that surrounds Gaylord and the Otsego County area. Fall travel has grown tremendously over the past few years and it is the perfect season for those who are looking to leisurely explore new experiences. MORE