Little Beaver Lake Entrance To Big Beaver Lake

Day Hiking Tips

Preparing for a wilderness day hike

 

Travel considerations — The beauty of it all, besides the scenic experience, is that you don't have to fork out an arm and a leg to experience an outdoor wilderness hike in Michigan's Upper Peninsula. Centrally located around 5 hours from Detroit or from Chicago, the trip through the U.P. will spell-bound you to wonder how you got here so fast. A well organized weekend trip could easily provide you with a quality, full day hike that will revitalize your metabolism, satisfy your soul and cleanse your inner spirit. Of course the more time you can afford to spend hiking the forest, the better your grasp of appreciation and satisfaction.

 

 

Lodging considerations — Lodging for the most part is pretty reasonable here in the Upper Peninsula. You can lodge in a local Ma & Pa's motel for as low as $35.00 per night that'll provide you with fresh linen, bed and shower. Or you may want the amenities of a sauna, swimming pool or hot tub that will cost you up to $150.00 per night. Camping, (my favorite) is another lodging alternative. Not only is camping economical, it can enhance and expand on your entire outdoor experience considerably. There are plenty of developed federal and state and private campgrounds to choose from and most are in easy reach to nearby hiking trails. You can also select from hundreds of rustic campgrounds located in the Hiawatha National Forest and the Ottawa National Forest.

 

Gear considerations — Day hikes are a whole lot easier to execute than overnight stays. Overnight stays require somewhat elaborate equipment that must be lightweight, portable and reliable. Day hikes require much less gear and allows you the advantage to hike more efficiently and thus having a more enjoyable experience. Having comfortable footwear is most important. It's best to break-in brand new footwear in advance to your trip. Other gear essentials include day-pack with warm clothing, rain gear, compass, first aid kit, water and snacks.

 

- Munising Day Hikes
One of the best ways to experience Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore is to hike its network of trails.

 

- Day Hikes - Grand Marais, Michigan Area
Day Hikes information for the Grand Marais, Michigan area and the Hiawatha National Forest.

 

Michigan Hiking Information & Resources

 

Bruno's Run Hiking Trail
Hiking, Biking, Snowshoe and Cross Country Ski Trail

 

Backcountry Camping
Department of Natural Resources - Recreation & Camping

 

Hiking Hiawatha National Forest
U.S. Forest Service Recreational Activities - Hiking Hiawatha National Forest

 

Recreational Trails in the Hiawatha National Forest
Hiawatha National Forest Tourist Attraction Information Resource

 

Hiawatha National Forest Hiking & Walking
Yahoo! Travel - A complete list of hiking and recreational trails in Michigan's U.P.