58 Deward Tract 
wildlife viewing
| directions and facility information
Photo: Susan Thiel, MI DNR
This scenic and undeveloped area in the AuSable State Forest
lies along the headwaters of the beautiful Manistee River.
This site is tucked in the middle of the 4,700-acre DeWard
Tract, a special management area created to protect the corridor along
this top quality trout stream. Motorized vehicles are prohibited within
this special tract except on roads posted as open. Camping is restricted
to areas within 50 feet of the marked open roads. Several access roads
throughout the DeWard Tract lead to informal
parking areas. Foot trails from these parking areas provide access to the
river for fishing and wildlife watching. Upland habitats range from open
scrublands with pin cherry, grasses, scattered oak and pine, to densely
planted red pine plantations and lowland cedar and balsam fir. Scattered
areas of aspen occur along the riverbanks, which also contain of tag
alder, cattail, willow, and other wetland species.
 Wildlife
Viewing
Photo: Susan Thiel, MI DNR
This stretch of the upper Manistee River
is very scenic and pristine. In addition to the frogs, turtles, and trout
that may be seen in the river, you also get to enjoy the great beauty of
this wild, meandering, state-designated Natural River.
Bring along some waders and walk gently through the riffles and eddies of
this aquatic habitat. Raccoons, mink, beavers, and otters are quite
common along the river corridor, as well as birds such as kingfishers,
great blue herons, and northern water thrushes. The surrounding forests
provide good wildlife viewing for forest songbirds, turkeys, squirrels,
and deer if you’re willing to venture into the woods with a compass and
map. Coyotes, bear, and bobcat are also found here.
This area is open
to public hunting. Contact the
Michigan Department of Natural Resources for affected seasons and
locations.
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