08 Deer Marsh Interpretive Trail 
wildlife viewing | directions and facility information
Photo: © Dave Case
Novice and intermediate-skilled hikers will enjoy a close
look into a northern wetland ecosystem. The mostly level terrain
traverses through forest and wetland habitats snaking in and out of the
main body of Deer Marsh. The main trailhead is within the Lake Ste.
Kathryn Campground, which provides rustic camping, restrooms, drinking
water, and swimming.
There is no drinking water on the trail proper. Thirteen
artistic interpretive signs describe many of the incredible creatures you
may encounter. Viewing platforms and benches are along the trail. The
trail is accessible with slopes averaging 5%, and a fiber chipped surface
partially graveled. The trail is a loop approximately 3.1 miles long,
covering over 300 acres. Families with children should allow about four
hours for viewing and hiking.
 Wildlife
Viewing
Deer Marsh is brimming with a wide variety of wetland
wildlife. Hooded mergansers, wood ducks, great blue herons, American
bitterns, bald eagles, ospreys, beavers, river otters, and white-tailed
deer are popular. Be on the lookout for black-backed woodpeckers and
boreal chickadees. You may also experience a rare sighting of trumpeter
swans, in the area. Black bear, pine marten, and eastern gray wolves are
visitors to Deer Marsh. Fall color is fantastic in mid to late September.
Portions of this area
are open to public hunting. Contact the Michigan
Department of Natural Resources for hunting seasons and regulations.
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