Oct 12, 2026 / Val Wright
Get in line, pumpkin patches and color tours – there’s a new fall activity topping travelers’ to-do lists and it may surprise you. The leaves are falling and the fish are biting! Fall fishing is no secret to avid anglers, but newbies may be unaware that dropping temperatures mean it’s optimal time to drop a line. MORE
Aug 12, 2026 / 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
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. FALL COLOR UPDATES 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 the Headquarters of the Pigeon River Country State Forest. Feel free to explore the Pigeon and uncover sinkhole lakes, hiking trails and elk viewing areas. 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
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, 120,000-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
Jul 29, 2026 / Val Wright
Hey, fellow hikers! If you’re in Gaylord and looking to stretch your legs and soak up some nature, you’re in the right spot. Our lovely area in northern Michigan is perfect for outdoor exploration. MORE
Jun 04, 2026 / maddendev
Keep your eyes on the sky in July to catch one of our outstanding fireworks displays! The Gaylord area has several "sparktacular" events to help you celebrate Independence Day and enjoy some Alpine Village fun! All fireworks displays start at dusk (be ready by 9:30 pm). Otsego Lake Fireworks Friday, July 3rd, 2026 Whether sitting on a blanket in the sand, boating on the lake or chilling in a camp chair, perfect views of the Otsego Lake Fireworks are not difficult to find. Stretching for approximately 5 miles along Old 27 South, our county’s largest lake is also the staging grounds for a stunning display to commemorate Independence Day! MORE
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