Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage
Crooked Tree Wilderness is a federally designated wilderness area located within the Ottawa National Forest in Michigan's Upper Peninsula. Established in 1987 and encompassing over 5,000 acres, the wilderness preserves a pristine stretch of mixed hardwood and conifer forests typical of the northern Great Lakes region. The terrain is characterized by rolling hills, wetlands, and small streams, providing important habitat for diverse wildlife including white-tailed deer, black bears, moose, and various bird species such as the elusive Northern goshawk. The area offers a quiet and remote setting ideal for hiking, backpacking, wildlife watching, and snowshoeing during winter months. Trails are generally primitive and unmarked, adding to the wilderness experience and requiring visitors to be self-reliant in navigation and preparedness. There are no developed campgrounds within the wilderness, so camping is strictly backcountry. Historically, this landscape was shaped by logging in the early 20th century but has recovered into mature forest ecosystems. The Crooked Tree Wilderness appeals to outdoor enthusiasts who seek solitude away from crowded parks and prefer an immersive natural experience with minimal infrastructure. This area also plays a key role in maintaining regional biodiversity and watershed health. Despite its remote location, the wilderness is accessible from nearby towns and is an important component of Michigan’s network of protected wildlands.
