Backpacking 101
The white river, manistee national forest
The White River area is the perfect place to learn the ropes of backpacking and backcountry camping. On this trip we cover everything from map and compass skills to tents, wildlife safety, decision making, fire, camp cooking and more. You’ll have the chance to learn and test various kinds of equipment to learn and find out what might work best for you down the road.
The White River is currently earning its national scenic designation, which means it will not only be protected but means this is a river that is rich in wildlife and biodiversity. Something indeed worth preserving for the ages. In fact, the surrounding area of the White is home to a large project to restore the population of the Karner Blue butterfly, an endangered species.
The entire region is teeming with wildlife and never disappoints with the calming river nearby and a starlit sky above. The terrain is gentle and the living is easy. Take a Friday off to hike through the back-country with us and we'll camp near the river. Sit quietly and spot an otter. Look up and find a bald eagle cruising overhead for fish.
Trip Itinerary: Begin over gentle to rolling terrain for 3 miles. Along the way we’ll stop to take in some scenic views, find our location on the map and appreciate our surroundings. Our first camp sits along the main branch 3 miles in.
After breakfast on day 2 we’ll breakdown camp and take a scenic but quick 2 miles to the north branch of the White River.
On our last day we can either backtrack to relive the 5 miles we hiked or truly test our skills by going cross-country through the wild savanna.
Total mileage varies from 7-10 miles for the weekend, depending on route. Itinerary is subject to change based on weather, guide discretion and group comfort.
Deploy: Lace 'em up for our 6:15 a.m Friday departure from Osmium Coffee, 1117 W Belmont in Chicago. The van (the Blue Whale) leaves at a prompt 6:30 a.m.
Embark: Hit the trails at 1:30 p.m Eastern for destination White River
Return: The Blue Whale awaits to steer us home on Sundays, 11:00 a.m. Eastern. Until next time, White River.
$400/person
