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7 Reasons to Visit Gaylord, MI this Summer

May 06, 2024 / 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

Instagram’s Top 21 Photos of 2021

Jan 18, 2022 / maddendev

Instagram’s Top 21 Photos of 2021  Looking back on 2021, we had an amazing year! We’ve compiled a list of the top 21 photos of 2021 on our Instagram profile. #21 Photo Credit Emily Johnson One of the many great activities Gaylord Michigan offers in the winter – snowshoeing! MORE

Get Your Gaylord Gear

Dec 07, 2020 / maddendev

Tis the season for SHOPPING and Gaylord, Michigan has gifts and goodies galore to please everyone on your Christmas list. Explore the brightly decorated stores within our Alpine Village as you browse for unique up north items and memorabilia.  Looking for the perfect gift to commemorate your visit to our All Outdoors paradise? Whether you’re filled with fond memories of childhood getaways or make this your annual excursion, you’ll need a memento of your favorite four-season destination. We’ve put together a list of where to find keepsakes that serve as a reminder of your home away from home. MORE

Top 4 Gaylord, Michigan Souvenirs

Nov 12, 2019 / maddendev

By Christy Walcott We all know memories are the greatest souvenir from any vacation.  But what about the nifty gifties you surprise someone back home with?  Or the special little embellishments you add to your home as a reminder of the place miles away but now near and dear to your heart? You’re in charge of creating your own memories, but we’ve compiled a list of 5 fantastic trinkets or tidbits you need to pack in your suitcase before leaving Gaylord, Michigan: 1 – ANYTHING and I mean ANYTHING from the Alpine Chocolat Haus   After sampling their sweets, nothing else will come close to the delightful delicacies you will find in Gaylord’s locally owned and operated candy store.  While their chocolate-covered potato chips are an all-time favorite, think about branching out slightly and trying their “elk patties” – an homage to our famous elk herd. MORE

Live Here, Play Here

Aug 20, 2018 / maddendev

By Christy Walcott Gaylord is my hometown and while I do enjoy venturing out and seeing what other communities have to offer, it goes without saying that my heart is always at home.  I make it a priority to take some time off during our perfect northern Michigan summers, but instead of venturing north, south, east or west, I have found my happy place with the “staycation.” I realized that my staycation would make a pretty awesome vacation for someone visiting the Gaylord area, so I thought I would give you a rundown of what makes Gaylord THE best place to visit! Day 1 – Just take it all in Most vacations start out with a day where you treat yourself to some casual exploration, and even though I’ve lived here for my entire life, I can still spend a day rediscovering Gaylord. MORE