The Illustrious Ice Tree of Gaylord, MI
If you’ve ever wintered in Gaylord,Michigan, surely you’ve marveled at our favorite frosty attraction – the Ice Tree. Is it really the world’s largest, as the sign adorning it boasts? This tradition beginning in the 1950s. A group of local businessmen made a pile of discarded Christmas trees and sprayed it down with an excessive amount of water, thus creating Gaylord’s first Ice Tree. This modest project filled the residents and those visiting the Alpine Village with absolute glee!
As “Cold Faithful’s” popularity gained momentum, so did the need to see the tree grow. In 1965, our Ice Tree went through a major transition, both above and below ground. Dedicated community members created a metal frame that also had underground piping at the location of the newly constructed Courthouse. Improvements were continually made through the years, including enhanced underground hosing to prevent waterlines from freezing, ensuring the Ice Tree would continue growing for the entire season.
To leave you with one last fun fact on “Cold Faithful,” this beloved attraction weighs an average 190-200 tons at its seasonal peak!
Downtown Gaylord
Can't miss the tree
@ 5:00 pm