the hidden lakes of the manistee national forest

While the Manistee is named for the gentle yet dramatic river that flows through it, do you think serene lakes would be left out of the equation? The answer is no and the good news is that they're kinda secret! Which translates to a fun challenge in navigating to these melted glacial pockets.

Take the reins with the map and compass or let your guide take you through the back-country to a number of hidden lakes that dot a region along the North Country Trail. While we can hike along trail for a good portion, many of these lakes are tucked away - it'll be important to keep your head up for landmarks, and to see the beautiful forest that surrounds us.

Bouncing from lake to lake we can make camp at any one. Swim, reflect, explore. There is so much to experience in a place as rich as the hidden lakes its not hard to make a trip out here a weekend to remember...and revisit. 

Trip Itinerary: Hiking will be easy to moderate with segments of off trail navigation. The route will always vary and be at the discretion of the guide and group interest. Expect a daily range of 2.5-5 miles with the potential for long stretches along the North Country Trail and exploratory stops at new lakes.

Itinerary is subject to change based on weather, guide discretion and group comfort.

Deploy: Stay in school, but take Friday off so we can rally at Osmium Coffee, 1117 W Belmont, Chicago. 6:15 a.m. meet, 6:30 a.m. peddle to the metal.

Embark: Discovery awaits the team at 1:00 p.m. Eastern

Return: This one's a double, returning Sunday around 4:00 p.m. Central

Make it a triple and return Monday, 2:00 p.m. Central

$400/person for a two night journey