We have collected information and web links related to the area and combined them here with photos we took and video clips from the show in what we hope will be a helpful guide as you plan your trip. Feel free to select only one or two activities per day according to your family’s interests. For assistance or for more information, call the Oscoda Area Convention & Visitors Bureau - 1-877-8-OSCODA Have fun!
The endangered Kirtland's warbler is one of the rarest members of the wood warbler (Parulidae) family. It is a bird of unusual interest for many reasons. It nests in just a few counties in Michigan's northern Lower and Upper peninsulas, in Wisconsin and the province of Ontario and, currently, nowhere else on Earth.
Clark’s Marsh Wildlife Area
Clark’s Marsh is a collection of still woodland
ponds and old growth forest. Its flat grassy
trails make it a perfect place for visitors to
view rare native wild flowers and many
species of wild birds including the most productive Eagle's nest in the area.
The Eagle's Nest Overlook is one of the most famous overlooks on the Huron National Forest. The Nest is just west of the visitor center and has been used by a pair of bald eagles since about 1985. Rare is the fall day that you do not see eagles soaring over Cooke Pond. The view into the nest is better if you remember to bring binoculars of at least six power.
The River Road National Forest Scenic Byway is one of a growing number of scenic byways established since 1988 for the enjoyment of touring motorists and all who love natural beauty. It is a 22-mile, two-lane paved- highway along 4.3 miles of M-65 and 17.7 miles of a county road known as River Road, roughly paralleling the south bank of the famed Au Sable River.
Today, three species of swans can be found in Michigan. The trumpeter is the largest and has an all-black bill. Weighing from 25-35 pounds when fully grown, the trumpeter swan is the world's largest waterfowl. When fully extended, their wingspan can reach nearly eight feet.
Spring is so filled with beauty that we just had to spend sometime learning about the wildflowers that are found in this area. We are very fortunate to have been introduced to many experts in our journeys and that was also true here as we met with wildflower expert and High School biology teacher George Faulkenhagen.
A 400-acre impoundment is at the heart of this site, which is surrounded by hundreds more acres of seasonally flooded wetlands. Tuttle Marsh has no facilities or developments, but visitors are encouraged to use the wetland dike as a hiking trail.
directions: Tuttle Marsh Wildlife Area is located approximately 7 miles north of Tawas, and 6 miles southwest of Oscoda.
From Tawas, travel west on M-55 one mile to Wilber Road. Turn right and proceed 4 miles to the stop sign at Galion Road. Turn right and drive 1/2 mile to Sherman Road. Turn left and continue 1.5 miles to May Road. Turn right and drive 1/2 mile to Brooks Road. Turn right and follow the winding gravel road for 3/4 mile to Tuttle Marsh Road on the left. Tuttle Marsh Road is about 4 miles long.
From Oscoda, travel Old US-23 west 5 3/4 miles to Tuttle Marsh Road. Turn left into the Tuttle Marsh Wildlife Area.