Grayling’s trails and riverfront make it an outdoor destination
Grayling is on the banks of the Au Sable River, encircled by forests with trails, making it a gateway to diverse recreation in Northern Michigan. The city supports a vibrant community with a hospital, state college and an energetic downtown. Camp Grayling, known as the largest National Guard training center in the United States, is a major contributor to the local economy. Formerly a prominent lumber town, Grayling is now recognized for its protected lands. Despite the town’s wide-open surroundings, its downtown remains walkable and bikeable, thanks to a network of trails and sidewalks. “It has a small-town feel but a lot of modern amenities,” says Amanda DeMeyers, a Realtor with Houghton Lake Realty who specializes in the area. “And it’s the canoe race capital [of Michigan].”
Living by the water, in the woods, or in town
Shaded by tall pines and oaks, homes are arranged on gridded streets closer to downtown or scattered across wooded lots on the outskirts. Lake Margrethe draws those seeking waterfront cabins and houses with private docks. Properties along the Au Sable River often have decks or sunrooms overlooking its banks. In the countryside, lots range from more than an acre to 40 acres or more, set against the backdrop of dense hardwoods. Housing styles include cottages, log cabins, National Folk houses and ranch styles. The median sales price in Grayling is around $175,000, lower than the state's figure. Tiny fixer-uppers start at around $64,000 and waterfront homes fetch as much as $1 million. Lake Margrethe properties are priced higher than those on the AuSable River.
Parks, trails and lakes offer year-round outdoor activities
Grayling City Park is on the AuSable River, providing a touchpoint for fishing near downtown. Kids meet on the playground here, and paddlers can launch from the riverbank. From May to October, the park also hosts the local farmer's market. Golfers head to Grayling Country Club's public championship course. The local skatepark is well lit and open into the evening. Hanson Hills Recreation Area is a hub for winter and summer sports, from skiing and tubing to mountain biking, disc golf and softball. It also has a fishing pond. Numerous lakes in the surrounding area offer more boating, fishing and swimming fun. Lake Margrethe offers a public campground with a beach area. Hartwick Pines State Park also has camping, recreational lakes and over 21 miles of all-season trails.
Schools that foster a love of learning within the community
Students attend Crawford Ausable Schools, which participates in school choice. Grayling Elementary School earns a B rating on Niche. Grayling Middle School gets a B plus rating and Grayling High School also scores a B. The high school prepares students for college and the working world through advanced placement courses and career and technical training. Its robotics team, RoboVikes, fosters a love of STEM-based learning through community outreach, including mentoring younger students. Kirtland Community College, local to Grayling, provides a way to advance through associates degrees and certificates.
National chains mix with local favorites in Grayling
Shopping and dining cluster around Michigan 72 and Interstate 75 in Grayling. Tinker’s Junction serves classic American fare in a family-friendly setting. Westside Diner offers hearty breakfasts and comfort food at lunchtime. Paddle Hard Brewing invites guests to sample craft beers and wood-fired pizzas. Ray's - BBQ, Brews & Blues is a staple for slow-smoked barbecue and live music, while Goodale's Bakery & Deli tempts with fresh-baked breads and pastries. Fast food spots like Wendy’s and Pizza Hut add to the mix. Family Fare Supermarket is in town for groceries. Retailers include McLean's Ace Hardware and Family Dollar, and local spots like Flowers by Josie and Ski’s Sports Shop round out the area's shopping experience.
On-demand bus service and pedestrian-friendly streets
Crawford County Transportation Authority offers regional on-demand bus service in Grayling. Highway 75 and Michigan 72 intersect in the city. The core of Grayling is pedestrian-friendly, making it possible to walk downtown and to Grayling Hospital. Additionally, the town provides pathways for cyclists. Grayling’s well-marked bike lane system links residential streets with commercial areas. The Grayling Bicycle Turnpike runs from the downtown area north to Hartwick Pines State Park, west to Hanson Hills Recreation Area and south to Kirtland Community College. The city’s 2024–2028 recreation plan proposed creating a green corridor along the Au Sable River featuring more non-motorized pathways
Written By
Kathryn Ashworth
