Trout Creek's central location is very convenient to several day trip possibilities. You may want to add additional days to your vacation just to get it all in! Here are some ideas for you to try the next time you visit us.

Garlyn Zoo

Garlyn Zoo is a great attraction for the entire family to enjoy. Have you ever seen aligators, American black bears, cougars or camels in the wilds? These animals have been hand raised and are friendly and enjoy seeing people visit them. You will be able to view, feed and pet a variety of these animals. The park is open from April 1st through October. Located on US 2 in Michigan's Upper Peninsula, this is a one hour drive from Trout Creek.

Inland Waterway

This 38 mile waterway has been called "one of the most beautiful small boat trips in the country". Families can enjoy a day of fun on the water among lakes, rivers and wildlife. Considered federal waters, the Inland Waterway begins at Crooked Lake, connects via Crooked River with Burt Lake to Indian River, then to Mullett Lake and finally connects to the Cheboygan River out to Lake Huron. Ski boats, pontoons and jet skis are all available for rental at the Windjammer on Crooked Lake.

Oswald's Bear Ranch

Have you ever visited a bear ranch before? Oswald's Ranch is the largest bear ranch in the entire United States. Rescued cubs are brought there every year. Area youth have contests to name all of the new cubs. You will see 30 roaming bears and will be able to watch them play. Located in the Upper Peninsula, Oswald's is about 1.5 hours from Trout Creek.

Sleeping Bear Sand Dune

The Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore is one of over 380 National Parks. Offering 70,000 acres of permanently protected land, 64 miles of wide, sandy beaches on Lake Michigan, these immense sand dunes are perched atop already towering headlands. The park also offers 100 hiking trails with interpretive information. The dunes are located in northwest Lower Michigan on the eastern shoreline of Lake Michigan, 25 miles east of Traverse City. It is approximately a 2 hour car trip from Trout Creek.

Tahquamenon Falls State Park

Tahquamenon is the second largest State Park in Michigan offering over 38,000 acres. This wilderness area is preserved in it's natural beauty with few public roads. The Upper and Lower Falls are two of the most beautiful in Michigan and one of the largest waterfalls east of the Mississippi River. Besides enjoying the falls, the area offers 40 miles of hiking/cross country skiing trails and 13 inland lakes. Located in the Upper Peninsula near Paradise, this is a 2 hour trip from Trout Creek....very well worth the drive!