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.
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:
TRAILS
Immerse 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. Hardcore cyclists will want to visit the 80+ mile High Country Pathway, the only “Epic” recognized trail in Michigan according to the International Mountain Bike Association. Hiking, biking and equestrian use (on designated trails) are all permitted.
HUNTING & FISHING
A sportsman’s paradise, The Pigeon has ample opportunities for hunters and anglers alike. Grouse and deer are popular game and acre upon acre of state land leaves room for everyone. Several lakes are stocked with trout each season, but pay close attention to bait and size restrictions. Contact the Michigan DNR office or check out this helpful guide for more information.
LAKES & RIVERS
There’s plenty of water and it’s not just for fishing. Natural access sites are available on the three rivers winding throughout the forest, offering views of the landscape impossible by foot or car. While the rivers will sweep you off your feet, don’t skip past the captivating sinkhole lakes. Their unique topography can’t be beat and Section 4 Lake is well-known for its sparkling turquoise waters.
GETTING AROUND
And on one final note, be prepared for little or no cell service or GPS. Maps of the area can be picked up at the Pigeon River Country State Forest Headquarters or right at our Visitor’s Center, but navigation can still be tricky with two-tracks and unmarked roads. Remember, this is an adventure!
By now you think you’ve got this whole Gaylord thing down – the trails are exhilarating, each season is its own masterpiece and the downtown district is filled with eateries and shopping galore. While you may be a Gaylord expert at this point, we thought we’d tantalize the trivia fan in you with a few tidbits of information you didn’t know. For example…
Where did the Alpine theme come from?
We have the elegant, yet up north Otsego Resort to thank for the Alpine ambiance Gaylord embraces. Following the development of the Otsego Resort (formerly Hidden Valley Resort), there was a boom in local chalet-style architecture with high peaks and distinguishable lines. Community leaders soon adopted this theme throughout town, hoping to set Gaylord apart from other vacation destinations in northern Michigan. The plan worked and Gaylord is now widely known as “the Alpine Village.”
Who is Claude Shannon?
There’s a scenic little slice of heaven smack dab on M-32 in our friendly downtown district – the Claude Shannon Park. So who is Claude Shannon and what’s his claim to fame? Well, if you’ve ever heard of a little thing called digital communication, then you’re on the right track! Born and raised in Gaylord, Claude Shannon is considered the founding father of the electronic communications age. We can phrase this scientifically and say the perspective introduced by Shannon is the foundation of the digital revolution and every device containing a microprocessor or microcontroller. Or, if you’d prefer, we can simplify it by saying without his contributions, none of the electronic communication devices we rely on today would exist.
Why is there an elk herd just a few blocks off Main Street?
To make a long story short, the property is owned by the City of Gaylord and adjacent to scenic Aspen Park. Elk were suggested as an addition to this area to help increase the region’s elk population and also keep the grass down within the enclosure. The animals were obtained through several different avenues, including the former Project Nature wilderness park and Clinch Park Zoo in Traverse City. Some even came from as far away as Colorado. These magnificent creatures are fed a healthy diet (along with a few treats such as sugar beets), given necessary supplements and even receive veterinary care when needed. As far as their day-to-day lifestyle is concerned, they behave as elk in the wild and graze, fight and mate without intervention.
Why does Gaylord get so much snow?
Did you know there are people out there who think Michigan is FLAT? Obviously, they have never experienced the Alpine Village! With a peak elevation of 1,382 feet, Gaylord is the highest elevated city in the Lower Peninsula. Combine our high elevation with Michigan’s famous lake effect snow, along with a seat right in that fancy snowbelt we’ve all heard about, and you get the ultimate winter destination. Our record snowfall? 205.5 glorious inches of the white stuff in 1970-1971. We can beat that…just wait!
The ball drops. Fireworks explode against the now-January night sky. This is it, the moment everyone shouts “Happy New Year” and reaches for a midnight smooch from someone nearby. But all you can think is “it’s here…the diet I said I would start after the holidays.”
The ever-popular New Year’s Resolution to be healthier and lose weight plagues many people on January 1st each year. Before you give up all hope and reach for the Oreos, just remember there are some fun ways to burn calories, especially in the winter paradise of Gaylord, Michigan!
The internet is full of activity/calorie calculators, but here are some estimates to keep in mind when planning your next winter workout day:
1. Downhill Skiing – You can look forward to burning approximately 340 calories an hour while you schuss down one of the fantastic runs at Otsego Resort or Treetops Resort. If you have the need for speed, express trips down the slope can result in a loss of just over 450 calories. The best part is if you decide to head inside for a quick warm up, hot cocoa will cost you only 200 of those calories you just burned off.
2. Cross Country Skiing – Nordic skiing at a moderate pace for one hour equals 476 calories, the equivalent of one Caramel Macchiato from Starbucks. With an array of scenic and enticing groomed trails to choose from, you’ll be much happier gliding through the forest than downing empty calories in your 10-minute drive to work. Treat yourself to something truly special and try out Michaywe’s lit trails after the sun goes down.
3. Snowshoeing – Burn away another 476 calories snowshoeing through our snow-draped, silent forests. Aspen Park is a popular meeting spot for sunset snowshoe hikes any day of the week. With lit trails and one of the loveliest northern Michigan landscapes you will find, you certainly won’t feel burdened keeping your New Year’s resolution.
4. Snowmobiling – Believe it or not, snowmobiling for one hour burns approximately 170 calories! You may not “feel the burn” while you sail along the trail on your sled, but your muscles are still working overtime. With Gaylord located smack dab in the middle of a snowmobile trail network that runs more than 500 miles across eight counties, your opportunities for this most enjoyable exercise are endless!
While most New Year’s resolutions only survive a few months, an invigorating outdoor hobby can last a lifetime. Get outside and enjoy what our All Outdoors winter community has to offer!
By Paul Beachnau
So winter is here and your normal outdoor routine is shelved. It is cold and there is snow and you’re just not crazy about it.
There are many of us crazy folks that LOVE winter. It is quiet, it is pretty and with the proper gear, you can stay warm and cozy! Don’t have a snowmobile? No problem. You skied once as a kid and had a bad experience? Not to worry. You can’t afford expensive gear right now? Gotcha covered!
Here are five really fun and, excuse the pun, cool things to do in Gaylord, Michigan this winter:
Snowshoeing
Let me just say that snowshoeing is a blast. You never need a groomed trail, you can go with 6 inches of snow on the ground or 60 inches of snow on the ground – snowshoes work the same. All you need are some public or private trails, a pair of boots, a hat, gloves and snowshoes. Poles are optional. I have a pair of snowshoes that are 20-years-old and work just as well now as they did then. Snowshoes don’t go out of style, except for maybe bindings, but the technology is the same. You walk on the snow. You get a great workout and you can literally go anywhere. Once you start moving, you warm right up. Most novices actually overdress. With no leaves on the trees, you see vistas, valleys and streams that you would never see other times of the year, which is just cool.
Take a Downhill Ski Lesson
Most non-skiers have tried downhill skiing and had a bad experience or just gotten out of it. Well, take a lesson. Both Otsego Resort and Treetops Resort have rental equipment and experienced, fun ski instructors. This is a great activity to do with a friend or two or your children. Usually, within a few hours, the instructor will have you stopping comfortably, making gentle turns and safely getting on and off the chairlift. As a long-time skier, knowing the basics is worth the price of a lesson in enjoyment. Equipment has come a long way since I was a kid (hint – think 1970). It is more comfortable, warmer and carved skis literally turn themselves.
Winter Rafting
No, I am not daft and I did not make this up. Gaylord has two outfitters in the area that will take you and up to 5 of your friends or family members winter rafting down the Sturgeon River! The Sturgeon is the fastest river in the Lower Peninsula and does not usually freeze over. This is not tubing or kayaking and you get into a raft big enough not to tip. You actually sit on the sides and everyone helps paddle. Winter rafting comes with an experienced guide who makes sure you have an outstanding experience. Excursions last an hour or two and you dress like you would for any outdoor winter activity. You will see parts of Northern Michigan not seen in summer, as there are no leaves on the trees. There are numerous wildlife viewings as they come to the river for water (other lakes are frozen over, so this is where they go!). Winter rafting is great for a group of friends or families. It is something memorable you can all experience together.
Wine Walks & Moonlit Wanderings
There is nothing like taking frequent breaks while you are out enjoying winter, right? I can’t think of a more perfect stop than gourmet food and beverage stations along the way. With exceptional scenery and a flair for food, the Otsego Resort has added a Winter Wine Walk to their schedule throughout the winter, allowing guests to explore their lovely property while indulging their taste buds. Both Treetops and Otsego Resort are also known for magical moonlit tours after the sun goes down. If you don’t have gear, both resorts have rental equipment for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. Well experienced guides ensure you don’t get lost while exploring these sprawling resorts.
Extreme Tubing
This is nothing like the days of sledding down the local hill when you were a kid. Going “down the hill” has taken on a whole new meaning! The tubes are provided, the course is smooth and a lift attachment pulls you and the tube back up the hill! Pretty great, huh? Both Treetops Resort and Otsego Resort offer downhill tubing. The only thing you need to do for this activity is dress warm and figure out how to get the grin off your face when you are done. This is a great activity for anyone in the family, including the whole family. It is also a blast with friends. Most tubing is done in hour-long sessions, so you will need to sign up in advance.
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 & Tubing
Treetops 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!
Snowmobiling
And speaking of adrenaline…how about riding along Trail #7 all the way to the Mackinac Bridge on your snowmobile? Or take a trail in any direction from our central location and explore the northern Michigan wilderness. Find trail reports here and request your free snowmobile trail map today!
Winter Rafting
Keep the fun flowing by rafting the Sturgeon River on a guided trip! Experienced guides take care of the details while you float through some of the loveliest, untouched wilderness in our area. Yes, you’ll have to do a little paddling, and no, you won’t get wet. Find more information and tips in Winter Rafting 101.
Snowshoeing & Cross-Country Skiing
If the idea of exploring a tranquil forest is more your speed, head out on any of our trails to experience our favorite silent sports – snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. You’ll be so enamored with our peaceful woodlands that you won’t even notice the calorie-burning workout taking place. Bring your own gear or conveniently rent when you arrive.
Snow Cams
Maybe you can’t make the trip right now but still need a taste of Gaylord. We’re linked up to snow cams throughout the area, which bring your favorite Alpine Village right to your living room. Enjoy views of Otsego Lake, local wildlife and our bustling snowmobile trails from the comfort of your couch. Promise us one thing…don’t forget to tune in with a cup of hot cocoa.
Visit us soon – we don’t want you to miss out on winter in Gaylord, Michigan!
If you’ve ever wintered in Gaylord, Michigan, surely you’ve marveled at our favorite frosty attraction – the Ice Tree. Is it really the world’s largest, as the sign adorning it boasts? And how did this downtown landmark come to be in the first place? We’ve done some digging and have the inside scoop for you!
While we couldn’t pin down an exact date, our research led us to this tradition beginning in the 1950s. A group of local businessmen made a pile of discarded Christmas trees and sprayed it down with an excessive amount of water, thus creating Gaylord’s first Ice Tree. This modest project filled the residents and those visiting our Alpine Village with absolute glee!
As our small town started to make a big reach with this simple gesture of winter fun, the Ice Tree gained more notoriety by receiving a formal name. In 1957, the Gaylord Herald Times held a competition to see who could come up with the best nickname for this beloved icon. The winning entry? “Cold Faithful,” which we’d love to see make a comeback today. Fun fact: The contest winner, Bob Lee, received a two-pound box of chocolates for his chosen entry!
By the 1960s, Gaylord’s notorious Ice Tree was receiving recognition from far and wide. Other cities even attempted to create their own icy monument, however, they just couldn’t match the majesty of what our community had on display.
As “Cold Faithful’s” popularity gained momentum, so did the need to see the tree grow. In 1965, our Ice Tree went through a major transition, both above and below ground. Dedicated community members created a metal frame that also had underground piping at the location of the newly constructed Courthouse. Improvements were continually made through the years, including enhanced underground hosing to prevent waterlines from freezing, ensuring the Ice Tree would continue growing for the entire season.
So, is it really the World’s Largest Ice Tree, as the sign states? While no one is breaking out their tape measure and fact checking our community’s bold statement, there doesn’t appear to be any clear competition in this department. For now, Gaylord can proudly say we have the World’s Largest Ice Tree. We can also unabashedly say we have the world’s most unique and intriguing Ice Tree, as the weather and elements refresh its look each year.
To leave you with one last fun fact on “Cold Faithful,” this beloved attraction weighs an average 190-200 tons at its seasonal peak!
**Thank you to the Otsego County Historical Society for sharing their ice tree intel with us!
Whether your idea of the perfect winter day starts with groomed stretches of snowmobile trails, cross-country ski tracks or the downhill slopes, there’s no denying Gaylord, Michigan is your winter hotspot! Along with outdoor recreation and resorts that can’t be beat, we plan on making this the most eventful winter you’ve seen in a long time!
So what’s on the calendar this snowy season? Read on for some timeless classics and new and exciting ways to embrace our wide-open winter.
Michigan Snowmobile Festival
February 2-3, 2024
Snowmobile the groomed and glorious trails around the Gaylord area and visit a selection of our local restaurants for your chance to win a $1,000 cash prize. We couldn’t make it any easier than that! Following your epic ride, join us at the Eagles Hall for complimentary food, a cash bar, live music and prize drawings. Register online here.
Extreme Powersports 300
February 10-11, 2024
Back for it’s third year, the Extreme Powersports 300 is a Pro Enduro Sprint race that brings racers and spectators together for 2 days of ice track excitement! With a variety of racing classes and 2 solid days of competition, this event is an instant cure for the winter blues.
Alpenfrost
February 17, 2024
Join us for Gaylord’s family-fun festival in the snow as we celebrate our Alpine Village! This year’s Alpenfrost event lineup includes digging for frosty keepsakes in Treasure Mountain, a snowman building contest and the annual Frosty 5K.
Gaylord All Outdoors Tri-45 Winter Triathlon
March 4, 2023
As Race Director Meagan Rinck says, “Why limit triathlons to just the summer? There is no off season, there is a new season.” And we couldn’t agree more! 5K classic cross-country ski, 10K fat tire bike and 5K run…all in the wintery wonderland surrounding Treetops Resort.
Timeless Favorites
When we think about winter events, a few classics jump to the top of the list. Treetops and Otsego Resort are known for creating memorable winter moments and their activities never disappoint! Snowshoeing and x-country skiing are magical on their own, but couple them with gourmet food and beverage stations along the way and it becomes mouthwateringly magical. Ever yell “mush!” as you’re walking your dog just to see if they’ll instinctually take off? Well, they may not, but with a trained and highly motivated dog sled team you will surely get whisked away. If you’d rather travel the snowy paths with your family and friends instead of taking a solo trip, horse-drawn sleigh rides create storybook memories for old and young.
Visit our events calendar for more dates, times and details.
We’re not sure who scheduled National Take a Hike Day in mid-November, but they obviously weren’t hunters or accustomed to northern Michigan’s weather! If you choose to head out today, you may need winter boots and be sure to wear bright colors. Whether you’re hiking today or daydreaming about your next adventure, let this list of our favorite natural areas in Gaylord, Michigan serve as inspiration to embrace being All Outdoors!
Jordan Valley Pathway
While Deadman’s Hill overlook at the trailhead of this 18-mile loop is known for offering one of the most stunning vistas in our area, the view from the valley floor might just knock your hiking boots off as well. If you’re not up for the full trek, you can take the quick 3-mile down and back loop from the parking lot or don your backpack and make a weekend of it.
Louis M. Groen Nature Preserve
This pretty parcel just east of Gaylord is filled with four seasons of fun! The network of trails stretching over almost 800 acres will lead you through fields, valleys, heavily forested woodlands, rolling hills and past Johannesburg Lake. Envision the lumbering era of long ago as you walk along historical buildings and sawmill equipment used by the Johannesburg Manufacturing Company.
Aspen Park
Mere blocks from downtown Gaylord, this 100-acre oasis consists of both paved and unpaved pathways to suite your hiking tastes. Meander along the leaf-strewn loveliness of Aspen Park past a quaint beaver pond, or venture in another direction for a glimpse at our City Elk Park. Better yet, do both.
Sturgeon River Preserve
This might just be our favorite place to stretch our legs when we’re short on time. Packed into this 1-mile loop, you’ll find a boardwalk running along the rushing Sturgeon River, hilly terrain flocked with cedars and pine, a small field of lush ferns and abundant wildlife. Believe it or not, you can even break the Sturgeon River Preserve into shorter segments…but why would you want to?
Lace up your hiking boots, wear layers for warmth (top it off with some orange!) and remember to stay hydrated even when it’s chilly outside. The best part about November hiking is that with a quick switch over to snowshoes, unexpected flurries won’t interfere with your plans. Stay active and gear up for some winter fun coming your way soon!
It goes without saying that Gaylord, Michigan’s two premier resorts offer up some of the finest northern Michigan downhill skiing and snowboarding you’ll find. But what else is happening at Treetops Resort and Otsego Resort? Whether you’re an Alpine skier looking for a fix or winter lover with wobbly legs, you’ll find some of the best winter All Outdoors adventures at these unique resort destinations!
Downhill Skiing
It would be a shame not to give kudos where they are deserved most, and in this case, that means on the slopes! Built into the stunning Pigeon River Valley and Sturgeon River Valley, our local resorts offer everything from gentle beginner slopes to challenging downhill runs. Lessons, rentals, gear and everything you need is conveniently on-site, too.
Tubing
Remember those wobbly legs we mentioned before? Not everyone has the balance of a downhill skier, nor the desire to learn. Some of us like the thrill of rocketing downhill from a lower vantage point – and that’s where tubing runs come in. Plop down, settle in, get comfy…but not for long! You’ll be whisked down the hill at an exhilarating speed with the biggest grin you’ve ever worn plastered to your face! The best part? You don’t have to waste your precious activity time walking back up the hill and return via tow rope so you can do it all over again.
Snowshoeing & Cross-Country Skiing with a Twist
Yes, you can rent snowshoes or cross-country skis at Treetops Resort or Otsego Resort and lose yourself in the surrounding acres of densely forested wilderness with sweeping valley views. Or, you can strap them on, take guided tours and maybe even indulge in food and beverage stations! Outdoor recreation has taken a great twist over the past few years and events such as the Winter Wine Walk and guided snowshoe hikes have now become staple winter activities. Grab your friends or make new friends along the way.
Too Many Cool Extras to List!
What else might you find when visiting Gaylord’s winter-centric resorts? There’s no telling. Otsego Resort has been known to host the Beaver Dam Olympics and Craft Brew Cruises. Treetops is known for their unique dog sled rides and wilderness sleigh rides. And both resorts have dabbled with moonlit snowshoe hikes if you haven’t had enough once the sun goes down. Keep an eye on our events calendar for all the details.
We’ve made winter planning a breeze with so many activities to choose from! Schedule your faves, then decide if you’ll be resting slope-side at the end of the day or heading into our Alpine Village where shopping, dining and lodging options ranging from simple comfort to ultimate relaxation await you. We’ve got your winter wonderland and more in Gaylord, Michigan!
Before you shake your head and say “no way!” to winter rafting, let’s clear one thing up from the get-go: NO, YOU WILL NOT GET WET! This is a guided trip with experienced professionals calling the shots. If you’ve ever been spilled out of your kayak or canoe into the brisk waters of the Sturgeon River, we can understand your hesitation. But hear us out and keep reading because we would hate for you to go home without experiencing one of Gaylord, Michigan’s most extraordinary winter experiences.
So many winter activities are dependent on the weather – Is there enough of a base for snowmobiling? Did a fresh foot of the fluffy stuff just change your cross country skiing plans? Whether we’re experiencing epic accumulation or a sudden January thaw, winter rafting is just as rewarding of an adventure. Also perfect for families, couples, friends or co-workers, virtually every combination of travel companions will love partaking in a picturesque paddle together.
No winter trip to our Alpine Village is complete without experiencing one of northern Michigan’s hidden gems, rafting the scenic and serene Sturgeon River. With outfitters in Wolverine and Indian River, a quick jaunt north is well worth the hours of fun and entertainment!
Plan your winter rafting trip with our free Visitor’s Guide!
Winter rafting trips give you the opportunity to float through some of the loveliest, most peaceful forests in our area. Imagine yourself surrounded by cedar and pine trees, their verdant branches draped with crisp, white snow. The only sounds are the bustle of wildlife (yes, you’ll see plenty) and steady rush of water along the frozen banks. Sounds pretty fantastic, doesn’t it?
Here’s a Quick Lesson in Winter Rafting 101:
1. Once again (and not for the last time – we’re going to keep pushing this one) you will not get wet. Well, there might be an occasional little splash from your paddle, but this is not a wet and wild ride where you emerge looking like an icicle.
2. Winter rafting is a safe activity for the whole family. While the Sturgeon River boasts the fastest current in the Lower Peninsula, you will be in good hands with an experienced guide. Just check with your outfitter on age restrictions ahead of time.
3. Newbies are welcome! Don’t let this adventure pass you by because you think you only have land legs. Your guide will teach you everything you need to know, including when it’s time to paddle and when it’s time to just sit back and watch the world go by. And trust us, get those images of class 4 whitewater rapids out of your mind – you’re embarking on a pretty relaxing journey.
4. Dress for winter fun, which means snow pants, a warm jacket, hats, gloves, etc. As we stated above, you will not get wet, so leave the raingear at home. Bring a thermos of something to keep you extra toasty and you’ll be good to go.
5. Most importantly, bring your friends, your family, the co-workers you never have time to get out with and your camera, because you will want to remember and share this truly unique outdoor experience for years to come.
Find more winter adventures in our e-blasts!
Check out these friendly outfitters, just a quick drive north of Gaylord:
Sturgeon River Paddlesports
Located just 25 minutes north of Gaylord in the quaint community of Wolverine is Sturgeon River Paddlesports. With over 17 years of experience, Jamie Jacklitch and his team know this river inside and out. Not only will you be surrounded by the tranquil beauty of the dense forest, but rafters can look forward to learning interesting facts and history about the river.
Big Bear Adventures
Keep heading north on I-75 and you will cruise into Indian River, home of Big Bear Adventures. Established in 2001, Big Bear Adventures offers winter rafting excursions that promote teamwork and enjoyment. Immerse yourself in the great outdoors with friends, family or co-workers for some of the best winter memories you will ever make!
Once again, in case you didn’t read through and just skimmed to the end – NO, YOU WILL NOT GET WET! Happy rafting and share your Instagram photos with us using #GaylordMichigan.