- Grayling is a small city in Crawford County, Michigan.
- It was once surrounded by old growth forest of red and white pines, which was mostly logged out, except for a 9,762-acre grove in the Hartwick Pine State Park.
- Grayling Fish Hatchery is a non-profit educational facility that promotes wild trout fishing in the Au Sable River that runs through the city.
- Mason Tract is a protected area that provides great fishing, hunting, and canoeing opportunities for the locals.
- Mason Tract Pathway is a 10.3-mile long network of trails that runs through Mason Tract, parallel to the west bank of the South Branch of Au Sable River.
- Hanson Hills was once a famous ski resort at the outskirts of Grayling, today offering sports programs for youth and adults.
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1. Hartwick Pines State Park
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What is Hartwick Pines State Park?
- Hartwick Pines State Park is a 9,762-acre park in Crawford County, Michigan. It is one of the largest state parks on Michigan's Lower Peninsula.
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What makes Hartwick Pines special?
- The park includes 49-acre Hartwick Pines, a 350-375 year old-growth forest of white and red pines, making the park look like all of Northern Michigan before the logging era.
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What is the history behind the park?
- The logging company stopped the logging in 1927, and the company owner’s daughter donated the remaining old forest grove to the state of Michigan.
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What facilities does the park offer?
- The Michigan Forest Visitor Center, opened in 1995, contains an exhibit hall on forest history in Michigan, classroom space, an auditorium, a bookstore, and restrooms.
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What trails are available?
- The Old Growth Forest Trail to the pine grove is a mile and quarter loop. The tallest trees are between 150–160 feet tall.
3612 State Park Dr, Grayling, MI 49738, Phone: 989-348-7068
2. Grayling Fish Hatchery
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What is the Grayling Fish Hatchery?
- Grayling Fish Hatchery was once a rich Michigan hatchery that managed to keep the Au Sable in constant supply of trout.
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Why was the hatchery changed to a non-profit facility?
- Local folks advocated a focus on wild trout instead of hatchery trout, since the Au Sable is already good at producing. They established Grayling Fish Hatchery as a non-profit educational facility where visitors learn about the hatchery, the Michigan trout, and the environmental problems in the area.
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What impact did the "No Kill" regulations have?
- Since they established “No Kill” regulations, the Au Sable became one of the richest wild trout streams in the state. All runs are filled with brook, brown, and rainbow trout that guests are allowed to feed and even catch some for dinner.
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What activities are available at the hatchery?
- The hatchery also has a catch and release bluegill pond for kids to learn to fish.
4890 W North Down River Rd, Grayling, MI 49738, Phone: 989-344-1100
3. Mason Tract Pathway
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What is the Mason Tract?
- The Mason Tract is a 4,493-acre management area along the South Branch of the Au Sable River near Grayling, Michigan. It was designed to protect the quality fishing waters of the area.
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Who originally owned the Mason Tract?
- The Mason Tract was originally owned by auto magnate George Mason, who purchased it in 1930 and bequeathed it to the State of Michigan upon his death, to be used as a permanent game preserve.
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What recreational opportunities are available at the Mason Tract?
- The Mason Tract Pathway provides excellent opportunities for fishing, hunting, and canoeing.
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What notable landmarks are in the Mason Tract?
- The Mason Tract includes the Mason Chapel, built by the Mason Family in 1960.
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What is the Mason Tract Pathway?
- The Mason Tract Pathway is a 10.3-mile long network of trails from M-72 to Chase Bridge on Chase Bridge Road. It runs parallel to the west bank of the South Branch of the Au Sable River and offers lovely views of the river as it winds its way across the bluffs.
Grayling, Michigan
4. Hanson Hills
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What is Hanson Hills?
- Opened in 1929, Hanson Hills was the first downhill ski area in Michigan.
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How did skiers travel to Hanson Hills in the early days?
- The "Snow trains" brought large numbers of skiers to Grayling, where they then boarded flatbed trucks for the ride to the "Grayling Winter Sports Park."
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What events took place at the Grayling Winter Sports Park?
- It was the place where the Michigan Snow Queens were crowned during the annual Winter Carnival. The carnival was also famous for its intricate ice sculptures built by local people.
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What attractions were part of Bear Mountain?
- There was a very popular toboggan run and a 66 ft. ski jump built in 1934. The area became a popular winter resort and became known as Bear Mountain.
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When did Bear Mountain close?
- The Bear Mountain Area with all its attractions was closed in 1973.
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What happened after Bear Mountain closed?
- Volunteers tried to keep a few hills open for children and established the Grayling Recreation Authority, which today offers year-round sports programs for youth and adults.
7601 Old Lake Rd, Grayling, MI 49738, Phone: 989-348-9266
5. Spikes Keg O Nails
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What is Spikes Keg O Nails?
- Spikes Keg O Nails opened on May 29th, 1933, the moment prohibition was lifted. It has continued to entertain and feed the locals in Grayling, Michigan ever since.
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What famous athletes visited Spikes Keg O Nails?
- Many famous baseball players visited the legendary tavern, including Birdie Tebbetts, “Dizzie” Trout, Pete Fox, and “JoJo”. The tavern also hosted famous boxers like “Kid” McCoy and Jack Dempsey.
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What is the atmosphere like at Spikes Keg O Nails?
- The tavern has retained its homey, cozy feel throughout its long history, with exposed beams and a treasured collection of memorabilia on the walls.
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Who visits Spikes Keg O Nails today?
- It is still the place where parents bring their children for lunch or dinner and where friends come to watch a game.
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What food and drinks are available at Spikes Keg O Nails?
- The menu is packed with favorites such as their world-famous Spikeburgers, rich specialty sandwiches, great burritos, desserts, and a selection of brews and other drinks from the full bar.
301 Cedar St, Grayling, MI 49738, Phone: 989-348-7113
6. Grayling Restaurant
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What is Grayling Restaurant?
- Grayling Restaurant is an old-fashioned, iconic neighborhood eatery that opened in downtown Grayling, Michigan in 1937.
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What type of food does Grayling Restaurant serve?
- It is known as the place ‘where the locals eat’, offering freshly cooked homestyle American comfort food for breakfast and lunch.
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What is the atmosphere like at Grayling Restaurant?
- The décor is cozy and homey, featuring cozy booths and bar chairs that create a welcoming atmosphere.
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Does Grayling Restaurant serve breakfast all day?
- Yes! Breakfast is served the whole day, and the menu has something for everyone.
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What items are on the menu?
- Besides a full breakfast menu, Grayling Restaurant offers fresh salads, hot soups, hot and cold sandwiches, handmade burgers, and much more.
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What is the most popular dish?
- Everyone’s favorite is the huge “Lumberjack Breakfast”, which is served any time of the day.
211 Michigan Ave, Grayling, MI 49738, Phone: 989-348-2141
Best Time to Visit
Places to Stay
Tips for Visiting
Spring (March-May) – Mild temperatures and ideal for fishing.
Ramada Hotel & Conference Center – A comfortable stay near downtown Grayling.
Fish the Au Sable River – Spring is prime trout fishing season in this world-famous river.
Summer (June-August) – Warm and perfect for outdoor activities.
North Country Lodge – A cozy lodge with access to hiking and river activities.
Paddle down the Au Sable River – Enjoy kayaking or canoeing on the serene waters.
Fall (September-November) – Crisp air, colorful foliage, and fewer crowds.
Woodland Motor Lodge – A charming, rustic stay surrounded by nature.
Explore Hartwick Pines State Park – Hike through Michigan’s largest remaining old-growth pine forest.
Winter (December-February) – Snowy and great for winter sports.
Days Inn by Wyndham Grayling – A budget-friendly stay with easy access to snowmobiling trails.
Go cross-country skiing – Enjoy the well-groomed trails at Forbush Corner or Hanson Hills.
Plan Your Trip
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