Gaylord, Michigan, is more than an outdoor recreationalist’s dream come true, it is also a standout location to bring people together in any sense. Its central location directly off Interstate 75 offers convenience for both business and leisure travel. Whether planning a hiking trip for five, meeting for 50, or conference for 500, planners will be greeted with the same warm welcome visitors to the area have experienced for years.
While its spacious venues, relaxing accommodations, and variety of local amenities make planning gatherings a breeze, Gaylord’s dazzling foliage is what seals the deal during the fall. Team-building activities, post-meeting exploration, and even simple group photos come to life with new enthusiasm when set against Mother Nature’s most colorful canvas.
Outdoor recreational opportunities during this vibrant season include meandering beneath canopies of crimson maples on a short walk or extensive hike, and renting e-bikes to cruise along the scenic North Central State Trail. If the water beckons, attendees can rent a kayak and paddle along the colorful shoreline of one of Gaylord’s inland lakes or planners can whisk the group away for a color tour along the Sturgeon River via raft.
The Gaylord area is known as a leaf-peeping hotspot—its high elevation creates sweeping valley views in a kaleidoscope of color. Attendees also can partake in scenic driving tours that stretch north into the Pigeon River Country State Forest or west to the iconic Deadman’s Hill.
Fall leaves are not the only thing to view in Gaylord. While marveling at the beauty of northern Michigan, attendees should be sure to keep an eye out for majestic elk roaming through the densely wooded forests. One of the largest elk herds east of the Mississippi River inhabits the Pigeon River Country State Forest, and they are at their most active during the fall. While elk sightings are not guaranteed, Gaylord’s City Elk Park, moments from Main Street, is home to over 40 of these impressive creatures.
While Gaylord’s amenities will undoubtedly exceed the a meeting’s or event’s needs, its outdoor recreation is what sets it apart from the rest. Plan the next gathering in Gaylord for the best venues in northern Michigan, along with access to the ultimate outdoor playground!
