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Pictured Rocks Backpacking Adventure in Au Train, Michigan - Marquette, MI

Pictured Rocks Backpacking Adventure in Au Train, Michigan

Au Trainmoderate

Difficulty

moderate

Duration

2 days and 2 nights

Fitness Level

Participants should be in moderate physical shape, capable of hiking 6-10 miles per day with a loaded backpack.

Overview

Take your first step into backpacking with a guided 2-night trip exploring Michigan’s stunning Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore. Enjoy camping by Lake Superior and learning essential outdoor skills.

Au Train, Michigan

Pictured Rocks Intro to Backpacking | 2 Night Backpacking Trip

Starting at $575 | $100 Deposit to Reserve | 27 Miles | Ages 18+

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Adventure Photos

Pictured Rocks Intro to Backpacking | 2 Night Backpacking Trip photo 1

About This Adventure

Embark on a 3-day, 2-night guided backpacking adventure through the stunning Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore. Perfect for beginners, this trip combines breathtaking landscapes with essential backpacking skills. Enjoy serene beaches, rivers, and iconic cliffs while learning from experienced guides. Experience nature like never before in a small group setting!

3-day, 2-night Guided Backpacking Trip at Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore - 27 miles

2022 Dates

  • September 16th - 19th
  • September 30th - October 3rd (Best for Fall Colors)

All trips are identical and run from Friday evening through Monday afternoon.

Rates

  • $575 per person
  • $100 per person deposit required to reserve (please call to make a deposit)
  • Group size limited to 8 guests (2 guides per trip)

Distance

  • 29 Miles over 3-days, 2-nights(Day One: 9 miles, Day Two: 7 miles, Day Three: 12 miles)

Physical Intensity

  • Low to Moderate intensity. Guests should be performing training hikes before the trip and be confident in hiking a 12 mile day with a backpack.

Overview

  • Our Intro tour provides a space for individuals who are new to backpacking to learn the fundamentals over a more relaxed itinerary.
  • We explore beaches, rivers, inland lakes, and the iconic sandstone cliffs that give Pictured Rocks its name.
  • A 2-hr virtual class is held beforehand on backpacking fundamentals. Guests are highly encouraged to attend the class. If you cannot make it, a recording will be available to view.
  • Breakfast and dinners are included for the hike, but guests must bring their own food for lunches and snacks. Resources to help develop a meal plan will be covered in the class.
  • Guests are required to carry their own pot, stove and water filter (these are available to rent at no extra cost). Guides will provide instruction on how to use equipment.
  • Our lightweight gear is available to rent – backpacks, sleeping bags, tents and sleeping bags are all included in the price. We will also help provide gear recommendations if you are looking to purchase your own items.
  • A complete gear list is available on our information page on our website to help you get organized.

Itinerary

Friday

Afternoon arrival at HHC headquarters outside of Munising, MI. Plan to camp out on our property the night before departure along the picturesque Au Train River. We will go over gear, distribute food, talk logistics, provide dinner, and give the opportunity to meet your guides and other participants.

Saturday-Monday

Saturday early AM departure from HHC Headquarters to Pictured Rocks where we will get on a shuttle to the start of the hike. Small continental breakfast will be provided.

Monday PM – finish our hike back where we picked up the shuttle.

A map of the park can be found here


Cancelation Policy

A $100 deposit is required to make your reservation. If you cancel within 10 days of making a reservation, the deposit will be refunded in full.

The balance is due 60 days prior to trip start date, or your trip is subject to cancellation.

Cancellations made 60+ days prior to trip start date will receive a full refund minus the $100 deposit.

Cancellations made 30-60 days prior to trip start date will result in a 50% refund of total price.

Cancellations made 0-30 days prior to trip start date are non-refundable.

Trips will run in rain, wind and cold/hot weather. Clients will be reminded to bring appropriate clothing/ rain gear for forecast conditions. Hiawatha Hiking Company’s decision to cancel will depend on the extended weather forecast and will be evaluated based on safety concerns. Unsafe conditions may include forecast gale force winds and extreme heavy rains that may result in flooding. Thunderstorms are typical in the summer months, and participants should be aware that they may be outside during lightning, rain and in some cases, hail. We make every effort to ensure the safety of all our guests; however, some risk is expected due to the nature of the activity. If we must cancel due to hazardous conditions (very rare), a full refund minus the $100 deposit will be given.

Adventure Tips

Pack lightweight gear

Since you’ll carry everything on your back, opt for lightweight and compact equipment to make hiking easier.

Stay hydrated

Bring enough water and a reliable filtration system as freshwater sources can vary along the trail.

Dress in layers

Weather can change quickly near Lake Superior, so wear moisture-wicking layers to stay comfortable.

Leave no trace

Pack out all trash and follow park guidelines to protect this pristine wilderness.

Local Insights

Wildlife

  • White-tailed deer
  • Common loons

History

Pictured Rocks has been a treasured site for Native American tribes and early European settlers who used the area for fishing and forestry.

Conservation

Efforts focus on preserving fragile ecosystems and maintaining clean waterways through minimal impact camping and regulated trail use.

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Adventure Hotspots in Marquette, MI

Frequently Asked Questions

Recommended Gear

Lightweight backpack

Essential

A comfortable pack to carry all your gear during the hike.

Water filtration system

Essential

Ensures access to clean drinking water from natural sources.

Sleeping bag (rated for 20°F)

Essential

Keeps you warm and comfortable during cooler spring nights.

spring specific

Bug repellent

Essential

Protects against mosquitoes and biting insects common in summer months.

summer specific