Sep 27, 2024 / maddendev
There’s a little slice of paradise tucked away on the eastern side of our county – the Louis M. Groen Nature Preserve. Filled with all the nature you can absorb, sprawling trails, remnants of a former lumber mill and lovely lakes, this Gaylord gem is a favorite for outdoor enthusiasts and history buffs alike. MORE
Sep 02, 2024 / Val Wright
Find Elk in the Pigeon River Country State Forest Ready to go on a wild elk adventure? Head to the Pigeon River Country State Forest! Locally known as "The Pigeon," this massive, 114,000-acre forest playground stretches across three counties and is the ultimate hotspot for elk viewing in Michigan. MORE
By Paul Beachnau While the days are getting shorter and everyone is basking in the cooler temperatures, 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
As autumn approaches each year, you can’t help but feel excited seeing the first leaves meld from their usual green state to varying shades of red, orange and gold. It’s those peek-a-boo moments through the lush greenery and the sudden crisp air filling your lungs that truly signal the beginning of fall. When October finally rolls around, the landscape transforms into an intricate mosaic of colors. Northern Michigan is in its glory during this season…there’s no way around it. Gaylord is simply stunning this time of the year, and it doesn’t matter which direction you take. Paddle a kayak along one of our glassy shorelines, hike or bike any trail of your choice or just turn down a dirt road and explore…you will not be disappointed. MORE
You can’t take a wrong turn in Gaylord, Michigan in the fall even if you try. Every mile of highway, scenic country road and dirt two-track has its own hidden gem for leafers to discover. We’ve come up with two diverse treks for you to explore the fantastic foliage during your stay. You can find maps of both routes on our Fall page, along with our Top 5 Scenic Fall Vistas. Of course, we wanted to give you a sneak peek as we enter the peak of our color season! Our northern tour leads you down Natural Beauty Road to Pickerel Lake Road, part of the Pigeon River Country State Forest. Feel free to continue down the road and visit The Pigeon’s sinkhole lakes, hiking trails and elk viewing areas. MORE
Aug 07, 2024 / 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 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 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 PreserveWith 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
Jul 26, 2024 / 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
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
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