Creatures of the Forest LbNA #61702

The Kalkaska Public School Forest is located on N Birch St. From 131, turn towards Traverse City on M-72. Turn right on to N Birch St. The DNR office and State Police post are also on this road. Continue until you come upon the large curve. You will see the entrance to the forest here. Drive in and go to the right around the loop. Park where you see a trail with two cut posts. As you begin walking the trail you will see a bench-like structure on your left. 90 steps from the bench the path will curve right and downhill. Decision time. Go left. At 38 steps you will see a "thrunker" on the left. Behind this tree, walk 15 steps to two large trees. Then continue walking straight but just ever so slightly right another 25 steps to a large two trunked tree. Here the Great Horned Owl has been watching and waiting for you. Please make sure nothing is caught in the seal when replacing. This was a tight fit.

Go back to the decision point and this time go left. Cross over the creek. Twice. Count 22 steps from the second crossing. To your left 15 steps (ground may be a little squishy) is a group of 3 trees. Where the smallest one overhangs the fallen log, you'll find a bat ready to fly away!