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 will enjoy a day of fun on the water among lakes, rivers & wildlife. Considered federal waters, the Inland Waterway begins at Crooked Lake and connects a series of rivers & lakes all the way out to Lake Huron. Ski boats, pontoons & jet skis are all available for rental at the Windjammer Marina on Crooked Lake.
Mackinac Bridge
A definite "must see" is the Mackinac Bridge. This beautiful 5 mile bridge connects Michigan's Lower Peninsula to its Upper Peninsula. Other than by boat or plane, this is the only other way to reach the U.P. Since there are so many fun day trips & things to explore along the way, you will not want to miss a trip over this bridge.
Mackinac Island
Plan to spend a full day over on Mackinac Island. You will find that there are several ways to tour this historic island. A great way is to either rent a bike on the island or bring your own. It is eight miles around with places to stop along the way to site see or grab a bite to eat. Another is by a horse drawn carraige or by foot. One thing that you will not see on the island though are automobiles.
The Butterfly House
Visit Fort Mackinac, the famous Grand Hotel and the Butterfly House. Your day will be action packed with so much to do. Don't forget to visit one of the many fudge shops & ice cream stores!
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.
