Deer Ranch

Behind all the Minnetonka moccasins and deerskin accessories, large pens in a cedar grove have been fenced off for placid-looking, relaxed deer—26 adults and some 27 fawns. Founded in 1950, it's thought to be the oldest whitetail exhibit in the world. Most of the deer, when grown, are sold to other breeders with the goal of raising pets.

This is a good way to see deer up close. Here are Michigan whitetails, some white whitetails from Pennsylvania (their brown eyes mean they are just a color mutation, not albinos), and three albino born in 2010. That's five albinos altogether—probably the largest collection of albinos in the United States.

June is the best time for children to visit, owner Harold Kriesche says, because fawns are being born. Sometimes visitors can actually see fawns being born. Customers can be photographed through the fence with fawns and adults. Deer will eat out of people's hands. Deer don't have top front teeth, so they don't bite.

All the deer can be photographed, fed, and touched. But follow the rules. "Put your fingers in any deer's mouth at your own risk," visitors are warned. An estimated 90% of the Deer Ranch's
visitors are repeat customers, often enthusiastic deer hunters. Posters around the grounds highlight common visitor questions and answers to them.

North side of U.S. 2 West, 4 miles west of the bridge. (906) 643-7760. Usually open from 2nd week of May (snowmelt permitting) thru Oct. Open daily at 10 to 5 or so. July and August 9 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. $5/person, under 4 free. Wheelchair access: use side door.

Return to U.S. 2 from the Bridge

U.S. 2 FROM THE BRIDGE
POINTS OF INTEREST

Deer Ranch. Behind all the Minnetonka moccasins and deerskin accessories, large pens in a cedar grove have been fenced off for placid-looking, relaxed deer—26 adults and some 27 fawns. ... more

Father Marquette Memorial. Interpretive panels focus on how native people used plants and animals, and Marquette and Jolliet's 1673 journey from St. Ignace to the Missisippi. ... more

Totem Village. A disabled logger's 1950s folk art environment and museum paId tribute to Native Americans when mainstream culture looked down on them. Classic crafts, toys, books and music. Outside: a small woodland zoo. ... more

Souvenir Barn. A bridge-viewing site on the roof of an old-timey souvenir shop. Outstanding view of Mackinac Bridge, Straits, and possibly freighters. ... more

Curio Fair. Another nostalgic tourist trinket shop, adorned by seashells. An 8-story high tower gives views of both the Mackinac Bridge to the south and forests to the north ... more

Mystery Spot. Endless billboards build traveling kids' excitement for this classic roadside attraction, fun for adults and kids alike ... more

Gros Cap roadside park and St. Helena Island overlook. Take in a fine view, while picnicking, of St. Helena Island and its lighthouse 2 miles offshore ... more

Hiawatha National Forest/St. Ignace Info Center and administrative unit. A picnic spot and native plant garden outside. Inside, handouts and good advice about camping, fishing, berry-picking spots, and wilderness areas ... more

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