Michigan Troopers Warn of Large Elk Herd on I-75

Drivers urged to slow down and stay alert near Gaylord as herd crosses highway.

Published on Mar. 4, 2026

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Michigan State Police are warning drivers about a large herd of elk crossing I-75 near Gaylord, Michigan. The nearly 1,000-pound animals have been spotted moving toward the median, raising concerns about potential collisions with vehicles. So far, no crashes have been reported, but police are urging caution, especially at dusk when the elk are more active.

Why it matters

Elk collisions can be much more dangerous than deer strikes due to the sheer size and weight of the animals. A mature bull elk can weigh up to 900 pounds, making any collision potentially catastrophic for both the animal and the vehicle. This warning aims to prevent serious accidents and protect both drivers and the growing elk population in the area.

The details

The elk herd has been spotted crossing the northbound lanes of I-75 near Winters Road in Otsego County, moving toward the median. According to the Michigan Department of Natural Resources, there are roughly 1,000 elk roaming the Pigeon River Country State Forest area, one of the largest free-ranging elk herds east of the Mississippi.

  • The elk sightings have been reported south of Vanderbilt and north of Gaylord.

The players

Michigan State Police (MSP)

The state law enforcement agency that is warning drivers about the elk herd on I-75.

Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR)

The state agency that manages the Pigeon River Country State Forest area, home to one of the largest free-ranging elk herds east of the Mississippi.

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What they’re saying

“We often joke about deer "hitting us" in Michigan, but elk are in a different weight class. A mature bull can tip the scales at 900 pounds. That's not a fender bender. That's like hitting a grand piano at 75 mph.”

— Atlanta Chamber of Commerce (wmmq.com)

The takeaway

This warning highlights the importance of driver vigilance and caution when traveling through areas known to have large wildlife populations, especially in northern Michigan where elk are making a comeback. Slowing down and staying alert, especially at dusk, can help prevent serious collisions and protect both drivers and the elk.