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Discover Michigan’s Pictured Rocks on a 3-night intermediate backpacking trip with Hiawatha Hiking Company. Explore rugged cliffs, remote beaches, and unforgettable views along Lake Superior’s shore.
Discover Michigan’s Pictured Rocks on a 3-night intermediate backpacking trip with Hiawatha Hiking Company. Explore rugged cliffs, remote beaches, and unforgettable views along Lake Superior’s shore.
Book with Hiawatha Hiking Company
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by Hiawatha Hiking Company · Au Train, Michigan
Experience the stunning beauty of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula on the Pictured Rocks Intermediate Trip, a 3-night backpacking adventure offered by Hiawatha Hiking Company. This carefully designed trip invites outdoor enthusiasts to explore rugged cliffs, pristine beaches, and dense forests along Lake Superior’s shoreline. Ideal for those with some backpacking experience, the trail showcases breathtaking overlooks, colorful sandstone formations, and tranquil campsites away from crowded areas. Each day’s trek ranges between moderate distances, allowing for immersion in nature and ample time for photography or wildlife spotting. Along the way, hikers will discover hidden waterfalls, secluded bays, and challenging terrain that adds excitement and a true sense of accomplishment. The trip also promotes sustainable travel practices to preserve this unique environment for future visitors. Whether you want to refresh your outdoor skills or simply enjoy a packed wilderness experience, this intermediate journey in Au Train combines adventure, natural beauty, and expert guidance to create lasting memories.
moderate.
3 days / 20–25 miles total.
Participants should have a moderate fitness level with experience carrying a loaded backpack and hiking varied terrain.
The trip covers an average of 6 to 8 miles per day, allowing for comfortable pacing and exploration.
Yes, backcountry camping permits are required and are arranged by Hiawatha Hiking Company as part of the trip.
This is an intermediate trip, so some prior backpacking experience is recommended to ensure safety and enjoyment.
Expect sightings of white-tailed deer, birds like bald eagles, and occasionally black bears—always follow safety guidelines.
Meals are provided by the company and include lightweight, nutritious options suited for backcountry hiking.
The trailhead is accessible by car and located near Au Train, Michigan, about a 40-minute drive from Marquette.
The area was historically significant for the Ojibwe people and later for early miners and loggers, whose influence shaped the region’s trails.
Efforts focus on preserving native flora and fauna, with backpackers encouraged to practice Leave No Trace principles to protect fragile ecosystems.
Hiawatha Hiking Company is an outdoor outfitter based in Au Train, Michigan, offering guided backpacking trips in Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore. The company organizes small-group, multi-day backpacking experiences designed to introduce participants to backcountry travel and to provide more challenging routes for experienced hikers. Trips depart from the Au Train area and focus on the natural highlights of Pictured Rocks: sandstone cliffs, beaches, rivers, waterfalls, sand dunes, and historic lighthouses. Trip options include a 3-day, 2-night Intro to Backpacking that pairs scenic hiking with basic backpacking skills instruction, and a 4-day, 3-night Intermediate Trip that covers 42 miles and includes virtual classes to prepare participants. Guides lead each trip, provide route planning, and teach practical skills such as campsite setup, navigation basics, and Leave No Trace principles. The program emphasizes skill-building, safety, and low-impact travel. Hiawatha Hiking Company serves hikers seeking guided access to Pictured Rocks’ backcountry, including those new to overnight backpacking and those pursuing a moderately challenging multi-day route. Operating from Au Train situates trips close to common access points for the national lakeshore. All information about trip length, distance, and included skill instruction is provided in trip descriptions so participants can choose the experience that best matches their goals and abilities.
Book with Hiawatha Hiking Company