Pigeon River State Forest (east of Gaylord, Michigan) is home to one of the largest herds of elk east of the Missippissi. This place is so special. There is nothing more magical than seeing a free-range elk in its natural habitat. However, most people don’t take the opportunity to go find these majestic and shy creatures. Instead, people can visit these animals at Gaylord’s Elk City Park.
The park’s herd started with 3 elk from a closed nature center in the 1980s. Today the park is about 108 acres and is home to roughly 40 elk. The largest is a bull, who weighs over 800 pounds and is 6 feet tall. He is quite the sight to see.
While I have enjoyed visiting the elk at any time of year, October can be a spectacle. This is breeding season for elk. The males are much more vocal and active. It is not uncommon for visitors to hear an elk or multiple elk bugle more than once. The males also display their massive racks in attempt to attract females.
June and July can also be rewarding. Visitors may get a glance at some of the recently born calves. In my experience, however, the elk tend to be less active during this time of year and more elusive.
In the nearly 10 years that I have been visiting Gaylord’s Elk City Park, there have been times where I have not seen a single elk. Other times I see one or two grazing by the viewing areas and sometimes I have seen the whole herd in a field nearby. Like in the wild, there is no guarantee that you will get the chance to experience the herd. If you miss out once, be sure to stop by again. It is well worth the wait.
For more information on elk viewing in the Gaylord area, including the Elk City Park, visit Elk Viewing in the Gaylord Area. The city has a live web camera up and running for people to virtually visit the park.