I'm planning to backpack one of the Manitou Islands this summer. If anyone has spent time in this area and has any suggestions, I would greatly appreciate it. North or South Manitou? And, how difficult should I expect the hiking to be? Thanks.
-
From treestands to ground blinds, all your hunting must-haves can be found at Bass Pro Shops. Shop Now.
River1
Manitou Island Camping
1 reading
Last I knew, only day hikes could be made on So. Manitou Island.
Manitou Island Transit out of Leland serves both islands.
I've camped on No. Manitou a few times. You can pitch a tent at a Park Service designated site (only place you can have a campfire) or roam the island for some privacy. There's a small inland lake that, I believe, was about a three-mile hike in to from the pier. There are well-worn trails crisscrossing the island. Keep in mind, that you really can't get "lost" because the island is so small - though you might miss the return ferry if you are only there for one day. If you camp be mindful of the raccoons.
I'd be curious to read your report when you return.
Manitou Island Transit out of Leland serves both islands.
I've camped on No. Manitou a few times. You can pitch a tent at a Park Service designated site (only place you can have a campfire) or roam the island for some privacy. There's a small inland lake that, I believe, was about a three-mile hike in to from the pier. There are well-worn trails crisscrossing the island. Keep in mind, that you really can't get "lost" because the island is so small - though you might miss the return ferry if you are only there for one day. If you camp be mindful of the raccoons.
I'd be curious to read your report when you return.
I've hiked North a few times. You can only camp in designated spots on South that that doesn't appeal to me.
Not knowing your physical condition, I'd still rate the hiking as basic to slightly intermediate. As stated you really can't get lost but can miss the ferry. There is a lake in the middle of North which is a good base to filter your water from. The fishing isn't all that great. Remember, the only fires allowed on North are in the designated camping area fire rings in the village.
Two things that I suggest..
NEVER go over a holiday as it is crowded and touristy. People see to be everywhere except for the most remote, off trail spots.
If you can plan your route, and if the morning you leave is going to be clear, pack up early and be on the beach before sunrise. It is one of a very few places that you can watch the sunrise over Lake Michigan while still being in Michigan.
Not knowing your physical condition, I'd still rate the hiking as basic to slightly intermediate. As stated you really can't get lost but can miss the ferry. There is a lake in the middle of North which is a good base to filter your water from. The fishing isn't all that great. Remember, the only fires allowed on North are in the designated camping area fire rings in the village.
Two things that I suggest..
NEVER go over a holiday as it is crowded and touristy. People see to be everywhere except for the most remote, off trail spots.
If you can plan your route, and if the morning you leave is going to be clear, pack up early and be on the beach before sunrise. It is one of a very few places that you can watch the sunrise over Lake Michigan while still being in Michigan.
I believe we are going camping/ hiking this summer also... we being my bro and his wife and me and my g/f i will have a detailed report if we do end up going.... cant wait!
Steve, shoot me a PM and I'll give you details. I leave for my 4th trip in two weeks.
In my honest opinion that lake should not be posted on and deserves to be treated just like any of the smaller streams on this forum.
In my honest opinion that lake should not be posted on and deserves to be treated just like any of the smaller streams on this forum.
I would camp on North Manitou. You can camp anywhere, just no open fires except in designated area. I cooked with a little back pack stove, worked fine.I have camped there many times during the Deer hunting seasons. I believe the inland lakes have special regulations but not quite sure on that. You can go to the Sleeping Bear website/camping/north manitou and get an Idea of what it is like. I loved the north end of the island. If you like being alone you will love the Island.
-
?
-
?
-
?
-
?
-
?
-
?
-
?
-
?
-
?
-
?
-
?
-
?
-
?
-
?
-
?
-
?
-
?
-
?
-
?
-
?
