Bear holding big stick, using tree as back scratcher announces last day of U.P. zoo’s season

NAUBINWAY, MI – A resident black bear wants everyone to know that time is running out to visit this family-owned zoo in the Upper Peninsula.

The last day of GarLyn Zoo Wildlife Park 's 2024 season will be Sunday, Oct. 27, weather pending, officials posted on Facebook along with photos of the bear, Jigg.

"Be sure to come out and see all your favorite animals before we close for the season," the post said.

For those headed to the U.P. for fall color, GarLyn is a convenient stop just 40 minutes west of the Mackinac Bridge on U.S. 2.

Three photos included in the post feature Jigg, 5, holding a big stick, using a tree as a back scratcher and looking quite pleased.

The zoo, founded in 1994 by Gary and Lynn Moore, celebrated its 30th anniversary this summer.

GarLyn is nestled on 30 acres of mature pine forest. It include lions, tigers, bears, alligators, warthogs, alpacas, cattle, sloths, squirrel monkeys, red kangaroos, reindeer, turtles, singing dogs, wolves and more.

The zoo, W9104 U.S. 2 in Naubinay, is open daily but hours are weather dependent this late in the season; call ahead. Admission is $15 for adults and $12.50 for children 3-13 years old; children 2 and younger are free.