Budget Friendly Bucket Lists
Adventure More. Spend Less.
Oscoda, Michigan is a gem on the shores of Lake Huron, filled with natural beauty and small-town charm. Below is a season-by-season guide of affordable adventures to help you build a memorable getaway in any season.
Winter Budget Friendly Bucket List
Winter turns Oscoda into a peaceful, snow-covered wonderland with plenty of quiet ways to enjoy nature.
Ski the Corsair Trail
This 28 mile trail is a sought out winter recreational paradise with groomed classic style XC skiing during the snow months, and a popular trail system for walking/hiking during the warmer season.
Cost: $5.00 daily fee, $15 weekly fee
Explore Foote Pond Overlook
Foote Pond Overlook afford panoramic winter views of the river valley producing stunning photography as the light changes throughout the day. Truly spectacular!
Cost: Free
Winter Beach Walk on Lake Huron
Experience the magnificence of winter on the lakeshore. Nature creates a show of impressive ice formations and sunrise colors reflecting on the frozen shoreline.
Cost: Free
Ice Fishing on Van Etten Lake
Ice fishing is a popular local activity during the winter months. Bundle up and head out on the lake to join the friendly anglers.
Cost: Low cost if you have gear, fishing license ($10 daily fee)
Sledding at Old Orchard Park
Careening downhill on a sled or tube on a snowy winter day brings back all of the best memories of childhood winter time fun. No matter your age, sledding is a must-do adventure at least once a year and Old Orchard Park has just the perfect spot!
Cost: Free
Spring Budget Friendly Bucket List
Spring brings new life to the Au Sable River Valley and surrounding forests. It’s the perfect time for outdoor exploration before the summer crowds arrive.
Hike the Highbanks Trail
Enjoy sweeping views of the Au Sable River and early wildflowers.
Cost: Free
Explore the Oscoda Beach Park
Walk the pier and collect stones or driftwood on the still-quiet Lake Huron shoreline.
Cost: Free (Parking may be a small fee in summer months)
Visit Iargo Springs
Wooden boardwalks descend into a lush, mossy valley with bubbling natural springs.
Cost: Free
Photography at Lumberman’s Monument
The monument overlooks scenic river vistas; crisp spring mornings offer beautiful light for photos.
Cost: Free
The Sunrise Coast Birding Trail
The trail begins at the mouth of the AuSable River and travels 145 miles north following some of the state’s most critical natural habitats for native species along the scenic shores of Lake Huron.
Cost: Free
Summer Budget Friendly Bucket List
Summer is peak season for beach days, boating, and exploring the vast Huron National Forest.
Bike the Wildcat
This mile 15-trail system is open all year, and summer is the best time to get out on the trails for an exhilarating ride.
Cost: Free
Spend the Day at Oscoda Beach Park
Swim, build sandcastles, and enjoy the pier, splash pad, and picnic areas.
Cost: Free
Visit Tawas Point State Park (nearby)
Known as the “Cape Cod of the Midwest,” this park is perfect for swimming and is known as a great birdwatching spot. Climb the 85 steps of the Tawas Point Lighthouse for breathtaking views of Lake Huron.
Cost: Michigan Recreation Passport ($14 annually for residents, $39 for nonresidents/year pass or $11/day), there is also a fee if you are interested in the lighthouse tour.
Watch a Movie by the Pier or Enjoy Live Music
The Rotary Band Shell at Oscoda Beach Park hosts free movie nights on Wednesdays and live music performances on Thursday evenings throughout the summer months.
Cost: Free
Au Sable River Canoeing
Rent a canoe or kayak for a half-day float from local outfitters:
- Alcona Canoe Rental – Contact: 989.735.2973 or 800.526.7080
- North Country Canoe Rental – Contact: 989.341.4313
- Oscoda Canoe Rental – Contact: 989.739.9040
Cost: Approx. $25–$40 depending on distance
Fall Budget Friendly Bucket List
Fall transforms Oscoda into a blaze of color across the forested hills and along the Au Sable River.
Drive the River Road National Scenic Byway
A picturesque 22-mile stretch with scenic overlooks and interpretive stops.
Cost: Free
Paul BunyanDaysPaul Bunyan Days
A weekend full of games, music, crafters and demonstrations, and good food. This lively festival, which celebrates one of America’s most famous folklore heroes, is a local favorite event welcoming fall each year in mid-September, at Furtaw Field.
Cost: $5 entry fee
Hike Cooke Dam or Eagle Run Trails
Explore area trails with crisp fall weather, fewer crowds, and plenty of wildlife sightings.
Cost: Free
Visit Lumberman’s Monument during peak foliage
Stunning photo opportunities with fall colors reflecting off the river.
Cost: Free
Au Sable River Canoeing
Enjoy fall color from the water with incredible views of red and gold trees along the riverbanks. Rent a canoe or kayak for a half-day float from local outfitters:
- Alcona Canoe Rental – Contact: 989.735.2973 or 800.526.7080
- North Country Canoe Rental – Contact: 989.341.4313
- Oscoda Canoe Rental – Contact: 989.739.9040
Cost: Approx. $25–$40 depending on distance