Cougars are endangered but have been sighted in the area. They are light brown felines, 5-8 feet long including the tail. In the unlikely event that you encounter one, don't approach it, and don't run. A cougar expects prey to flee and will react like a house cat chasing a mouse. Pick up any small children or pets. Make eye contact, spread your arms to make yourself look bigger, and back away slowly. If it approaches you, make noise and throw things at it; let it know that you're dangerous too. If it attacks, don't curl up defensively... fight back. Cougars rarely kill humans, and are more likely to strike from an ambush position on a child or small female than a family or adult male.
The explosion of deer populations in Michigan parks has led to a large number of deer ticks, an unpleasant parasitic insect. Ticks are known to spread diseases such as Lyme Disease, and leave a painful, itchy bite. DEET-based repellents and clothing treated with Permethrin will prevent tick bites. Ticks cling to thick grasses and brush along paths used by deer, which also unfortunately include hiking trails made by man.
fees/permits
An entry fee of $10 per private vehicle, or $5 per person 16 and older for those on foot or two wheels, is charged for all parties visiting the park; the fee is valid for seven days. Alternatively, a $20 annual pass is available for those planning on making multiple visits. The $50 National Parks Pass allows free entry to all national park areas for one year. There are additional fees for camping see "Sleep". Passes can be purchased at ranger stations or from 24-hour machines at the visitor center and two main campgrounds.