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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. Get ready to spot one of the largest free-roaming elk herds east of the Mississippi in this untouched wilderness!

For the best experience, plan your visit during the early morning or late evening hours when these majestic creatures are most active. Visiting in late September or early October? You’re in for a treat! It’s rutting season and the bulls are trying to impress the cows. You might just hear their incredible bugles and maybe even witness an epic antler battle.

The Pigeon has designated elk viewing fields where you’ll have a better chance to spot them in the wild. Be prepared for little to no cell service or GPS throughout the forest. Grab a map from the Gaylord Visitors Center or the Pigeon River Country State Forest Headquarters to find prime elk viewing areas.

Easy Viewing at the City Elk Park

If you’re looking for an easy and fun way to see elk up close, the City Elk Park is the place to be. Located just a few blocks off Main Street, this park offers a front-row seat to watch these impressive animals. This herd includes elk from places as far as Colorado, and they thrive in a habitat that’s designed to mimic their natural environment. Some of the bulls weigh well over 800 pounds and stand roughly 6′ tall. During fall and winter, you’ll see them donning their massive horns, which they shed in the spring.

The City Elk Park allows you to get up close without venturing deep into the forest. The safe viewing areas offer excellent visibility, making it an ideal spot for kids and adults alike to marvel at these magnificent beings. The herd is contained on 108 acres and maintained by the City of Gaylord. They enjoy a diet of corn, hay and sugar beets near the fence line, which makes them comfortable being close to the fence and around people. That nose may look “boopable,” but this is not a petting zoo, and feeding the animals is not allowed.

Tips for an Unforgettable Elk Viewing Experience

Timing is everything – visit in the morning or evening for the best chance to see elk.

Pack your gear – you’re definitely going to want to bring your camera and a pair of binoculars. If you venture into The Pigeon, bring plenty of water, snacks and anything else you may need while exploring the wilderness.

Keep it respectful – maintain a safe distance and keep noise to a minimum to avoid disturbing the elk.

Stay informed – check local resources for the latest information on elk viewing spots and conditions.

Elk viewing in Otsego County is a must-do. Whether you’re trekking through the “Big Wild” of the Pigeon River Country State Forest or enjoying the close-up views at the City Elk Park, seeing these impressive animals in action is sure to be a highlight of your visit.

So, rally your crew, load up your gear and head to Gaylord, Michigan for a fun-filled elk adventure. It’s an experience you won’t forget!