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Dec 29 /

manistee river hiking loop

It is typically less crowded during the summer months compared to nearby Red Bridge, or Seaton Creek Campground to the north. There's actually two parking lots that you will come to on a dirt road. If you don’t make it that far, there is a great campsite near mile marker 5 that is right on the water’s edge. Hello! Dogs are also able to use this trail … The trail offers a number of activity options and is best used from March until October. The terrain along the entire route is rolling and you will only encounter a few areas that have some elevation change. Is the Manistee River Loop Trail open for backpacking? The sound of the river and the proximity of the campsites to water make for an easy night of sleeping. These trails span multiple counties and are perfect for those who really take outdoor hiking and rustic camping seriously. Saved this in two sections. Mostly dayhikers I believe. We’re getting in late at night and I’m curious how close it is from the Upper River TH. The trail along the River heading south is a great stretch for first timers. #RespectOurRivers #LeaveNoTrace. thanks! Big cliff overlook. — There is no pump water sources on the NCT side no. Do you think this full loop could be done in one very long day? by Brandon Jensen | Feb 18, 2016 | Fall, Outdoors, Spring, Summer, Trails, Winter, Winter Trails & Slopes | 58 comments. You start by dropping a canoe or kayaks at the north end of the trail, on the west side of the river. THE MANISTEE RIVER LOOP TRAIL Distance: 31.1km Duration: 8-10 hours Difficulty: Moderate More info. Our group did so last year in a little over 5 hours. Enjoy sandy soils that support a robust pine-hardwood forest, cross the impressive Pere Marquette River and Manistee River, and enjoy the popular Manistee River Trail loop. https://www.visitmanisteecounty.com/what-to-do/trails-manistee, https://www.visitmanisteecounty.com/project/manistee-river-trail, http://www.gtrlc.org/recreation-events/events, https://northcountrytrail.org/volunteers/local-contacts/spirit-of-the-woods-chapter, Top 6 Fall Color Trails 2020 - Manistee County Tourism - Manistee, Michigan, A Wedding Weekend in Manistee County - Manistee.com - Hiking, Biking, Fishing, Golfing - Share Your Story, Top 5 Winter Scenes to Photograph in #MyManistee, Hiking the Loop: Manistee River Trail & North Country Trail Loop. Excited to hike this trail on Monday! This is a great idea! On the map I have I don’t see any “overlook” marked. As you strap on your pack and set off on your hike, head out on the North Country Trail for your first leg. My boy Shaun and I did the entire loop and then some (got off trail a bit just past the suspension bridge. If you can only get away for a single night, you should certainly set out on the Manistee River Trail right from the beginning. North Country Trail: Manistee River Section, Manistee River: Hodenpyl Dam to Rainbow Bend, Manistee River Trail: Seaton Creek to Red Bridge. Hi Jason, Thank you for contacting Visit Manistee County. The 8-miles was just right for a Sunday afternoon and our first wilderness hike. I would like to camp on the River side. I’d like to start in the middle at the Slagel Creek parking area and head toward the waterfalls. It is a lot harder of a trail and has only one (I believe) access to water along the whole 8.5 mile section. Not looking to complete a lot of mileage, just craft a little adventure for my little guy. Email me jsouthwell@mcc.edu. By far the most technical trail I've ever ran, did 10 miles from the suspension bridge south out and back. And also can you bring your dog? All Rights Reserved | Manistee County Visitors Bureau : 310 First Street, Manistee, MI : (877) 626-4783 | Powered by RSDG. Her and I are leaving Thursday to repeat her adventure. Depending on the time of year you take this hike, a sizable waterfall will appear by the trail … What’s the progress of the bridge, does it look like it will be reopened by then. Avoid using a gear sled (pulk) on this trail: While a sled can be a useful tool to help pull your extra … Feel free to share your trail story with us; we’d love to hear from you. For more information and maps, check out our Trails page: https://www.visitmanisteecounty.com/what-to-do/trails-manistee. The North Country Trail and Manistee River Trail loop is approximately 20 miles and is ideal for a relaxing hike with a group of friends or family who want to “rough it” for a weekend getaway. Is this something you have to pay to reserve a spot or anything like that? Where on the map is the NCT Overlook? I have hiked (day-trip and overnight) many times on this trail, but this was actually the first trail I ever really backpacked on. So glad you found this helpful! Is that correct? There’s a parking area near the dam where you can stash your boats in the woods (bring a cable lock and lock them to a tree for security). #Trump2020. Even had a little time to catch a nice brown trout along the way, all the trout streams leading into the Manistee are amazing!! Planning your hike on the Manistee River Loop is fairly straightforward. Would highly recommend. The Manistee River Trail has many places to fill a canteen, whether from the river itself or numerous creeks and streams that feed it. Are we able to complete the trail still? Some of them can be found on our calendar, or you can explore the conservancy at http://www.gtrlc.org/recreation-events/events and the North Country Trail at https://northcountrytrail.org/volunteers/local-contacts/spirit-of-the-woods-chapter. Explore the North Country Trail Upper Manistee River Trailhead near the Manistee River Trail where you will hike your way through the dense hardwoods high atop the Manistee River bluffs. Easily made it up to Eddington Creek just before 4, found a great site for the night. Hi Craig, Seaton Creek is a great place to set out from. Hope you enjoyed (or will enjoy it) if you have yet to venture out – We are seeing some great fall color up there in the river basin right now so even for a day hike, it will be worth it! Second campsite further in off the trail, right in the bend of a horseshoe. Planning on hiking/backpacking here this month- where are dogs allowed to hike and what campsites can we have them? I’m planning on hiking the loop the end of August weekend of the 24th -26th. Get your Manistee River Trail map here: https://www.visitmanisteecounty.com/project/manistee-river-trail. From this lot there is a trail that heads north and shortly hits the connecting trail between the NCT and the MRT. Your email address will not be published. Any recommendations for a non-overnight hike? Required fields are marked *. Awesome weekend backpack hike! When you wake up set out on a day hike on the MRT. A great trail that is well worth a drive anywhere that you live in Michigan. Planning a overnight trip with my daughter, first overnight backpacking trip…is the NCT section be done in the first day? You'll more than likely set up camp with a couple neighbors unless you want to be a loner. Start and end at Seton Creek Campground. Google search of this trails returns references to 20 miles trail loop, made up of North Country Trail and Manistee River Trail. https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/michigan/manistee-river-trail-south If you are starting your hike in the morning or early afternoon, putting in a long hike the first day will be rewarded as you will certainly want to sightsee the second and third day when you are on the Manistee River Trail (where the views and natural terrain are spectacular). Did a 6 mile out and back with teens and a dog, great afternoon hike. There is a primitive parking area near the suspension bridge on the north side of the river. Then drive down Upper River road (a dusty affair which is really just a maintenance access for the power lines from the dam, with a few soft, sandy spots – so be prepared) to the NCT Upper River Trailhead. Loved the woods and the nice elevation change. I recommend you contact the U.S. Forest Service for more information. We were first timers and not familiar with the trail, so we ended up starting at the Marilla trailhead and hiking to the NCT. Is there a place to park a car overnight on the East side of Red Bridge? Thoughts? I did it last year but he is new to backpacking. Overall very scenic hike and very doable for first time backpackers (like me). If you can drop a car at the Seaton Creek Campground, you can take your time and really explore the east banks of the Manistee River as you hike north. Northern to southern ends of the Manistee National Forest. Download the map here: https://www.visitmanisteecounty.com/project/manistee-river-trail. This area of the trail is magnificent and you will surely see the most wildlife along this stretch of the river. The Route: We started the Manistee River Trail Loop from the southern end at Red Bridge River Access, then crossed the suspension bridge near the Seaton Creek Campground. Sorry I missed this comment a while back. Which trail should you choose for your weekend adventure? The MRT, while having many ascent/descents into ravines had many section of flat ground between. The views are breathtaking and the morning light radiates across the terrain assuring you that you are encircled by the natural landscape of Manistee County. Last May, after a thunderstorm, my son and I witness the coolest firefly show ever! You can hike this trail from start-to-end if you have a group with multiple vehicles. Loop/Endurance Trails & Overnight Hiking We have compiled some of the best loop and endurance trails in Northern Michigan and have provided them to you in one easy to access location. The forecast looks great, can’t wait to get on the trail!! After passing the Marilla trail junction you start heading to the MRT and finally get to see the Manistee River after about 9 miles of hiking in ravines. Minnesota. Hiking and biking are both allowed on the North County Trail, but only hiking is allowed on the Manistee River Trail. Dogs are also able to use this trail but must be kept on leash. Is fishing accessible off the trail if I wanted to backpack the loop? Hello, the Manistee County Road Commission should be able to answer your question. River views were amazing and plenty of spots to filter water. Then you camp overnight, pick up your boats, and float down to Red Bridge, which is about a 4-hour float with some very mild class-1 rapids. The trail is level and easy hike. We are looking for a hike that would have beautiful scenery as well as a lot of potential to see wildlife. Once you cross the bridge, you should consider continuing east towards Seaton Creek Campground. Cheers! Park at the High Rollway Observation Deck in Kingsley. One of our favorite trails. Pretty cool spot, access to water, Great overlook, good view of the sunset, need to go down the ravine to get water though, 2 Right near the water, one out in the grassy open & flat area near the water & 1c near the water but with trees, Nice overlook with a couple trees from hammock camping, Fire pit and space in the woods, also Meadow along river, Beautiful view of island. Do you have to have a permit to park at the upper river trail head? My husband and I are planning on hiking the manistee river trail this week but I just saw that the bridge is out. MANISTEE RIVER TRAI L – The Manistee River Trail is a 8.8 mile trail that goes the length of the Manistee River from Hodenpyl to Tippy Dam. Turn west on 26 Road (near Yuma) and drive 3 miles turning right on O'Rourke Drive. The views are spectacular from this location and the hike north through the high pines are great. Would I need to a reserve a site or can we setup camp anywhere? I would highly recommend the Manistee River Trail even if you are looking for is a 2-mile hike as opposed to 20-mile. There are many great spots to stop and the terrain has areas that are challenging in terms of elevation changes, but you will have areas of flat, easier terrain, to relax on and just enjoy the awesome views. There will be about 7 other guys with me and we were going to try and stretch this out to a 3.5 day 3 night trip. Get off the couch and put Manistee County and our trails your list of things to do this year. ELEVATION: Red Hill tops out at 1,105 feet, and the trail descends to about 700 feet through Flower Flats. My daughter did just that Labor Day. Enjoy! The map indicates parking lots, parking fees, campsites and points of interest. Outstanding hike, definitely could be done in 1 night or even in a day but making a weekend of it was well worth it!! This perfect weekend hike offers a varied and dynamic perspective of the natural beauty of Manistee County. Hi Melissa, the Manistee region has a lot of opportunity for a day hike. You will be able to check out the Hodenpyl Dam, which is a great sight tucked away in the heart of the Manistee National Forest. The Manistee River Trail, together with a portion of the NCT, forms a 20-mile loop of varied hiking. Rather than doing this as a loop would it work as a short out and back? We made camp for the night just south of Slagle Creek. Started near the suspension bridge. A 23-mile loop can be formed with the North Country National Scenic Trail. What is the trail like out 3 or 4 miles from a difficulty level and are there good camp sites along that section of the trail? The view along the east side of the river (on the Manistee River Trail side). High point with small area of level ground. Saturday we headed towards the Manistee River Trail around 10ish. My wife and I hiked the loop in 1 day. I’d say his range is probably 4 miles or less of easy terrain in a day without me having to carry him. Can’t wait to do it again! You do not need a permit to park at the Upper River Trailhead. Well maintained, could use a little better marking in some spots. The nice part of the NCT is you can camp anywhere really, although camping in a ravine isn't too rewarding. 1. For this trip we decided to drop in at the Upper River Trailhead and proceed north along the North Country Trail camping just south of the Suspension Bridge for night 1. If you can make it to Slagle Creek Road, you will find a set of great primitive campsites that are perched high atop the banks overlooking the Manistee River. Are you able to tent up here and camp out at different locations? Sunday we had less than 5 miles back to Upper River. It is a trek to get to the top, but you can see the entire Udell Rollways, a great view! Back on the Manistee River Loop! The views are absolutely spectacular and you will frequently see fishing boats, canoes, kayaks and tubes meandering down the river. As you make your way back to the Upper River Trailhead and pack up the car, your entire ride home will inevitably be spent talking about your weekend hiking trip on one of the most spectacular hiking trails in the Lower Peninsula of Michigan. I have done several hikes and canoe trips during my time as a scout, but have not done any series trips in a while, and my wife, though very athletic is fairly inexperienced with this type of hiking. Would love to take it slower and camp along the MRT side as well since every campsite seemed to have a great view. Please let me know! We took our time and enjoyed the scenery. If you have yet to go on this trip yet – here are a few pointers: you can do the NCT on the first day, yes, but it will be a good challenge if you have never done an overnight backpacking trip. Manistee County Visitors Bureau . Thinking of there instead of parking at Seatons Creek. You can bike north or south along the NCT on day one, and camp at Red Bridge for the night. Here you will be able to look out for miles across the marshes and rolling terrain you crossed on your first day on the North Country Trail. 25 miles for us total this was our first hike. The Manistee River Trail loop is one of the most popular backpacking and hiking destinations in lower Michigan. I am looking for rules and regulations on any permits I might need, and which part of the trail/s would be good for us. The Manistee River Water Trail begins at the river access site on the west side of Hodenpyl Dam on Hodenpyl Dam Road. Travel Michigan, MI Economic Development Corporation, 4225 Miller Road, Ste. Go Hike! Setting out on your final day, you will frequently head up and down in elevation along the most undulating part of the MRT as you make your way into the backwaters and wetlands. Dogs are also able to use this trail but must be kept on leash. The Manistee River Loop Trail is a 19.3 mile heavily trafficked loop trail located near Mesick, Michigan that features a lake and is rated as moderate. Gorgeous! Hiked north on the North Country Trail. EMPIRE BLUFF TRAIL Distance: 2.4km Duration: 1 hour Difficulty: Moderate More info. Would you consider this a good first-time backpacking trip for those of us (me) with no experience? Parking at the Red Bridge River Access Site on the south side of the loop. Quite a few day hikers, as to be expected on a perfect day. Another great weekend trip is a hike and bike. MANISTEE RIVER TRAIL & NORTH COUNTRY TRAIL LOOP This weekend-size, 22-mile loop takes you on some of the best terrain in the Lower Peninsula. The crowd had thinned out tremendously by Sunday midday and we saw very few people as we finished around 3pm. Do you know where I would be able to drop kayak off and then start my hike? Headed north on the NCT for about 8-9 miles until reaching Eddington creek to camp for the night. Hi Shawn, rustic camping along the Manistee River Trail and North Country Trail loop is free and on a first come basis. No matter which direction you hike, or which season you go in, the NCT and MRT will quickly be one of your favorite weekend hikes in Michigan. To those wondering, the Manistee river trail is very doable as an out and back in one day depending on your level of fitness and endurance. For those planning to skip the established campg… It’s not recommended, but if you do, share your story with us! We are thinking of hiking the last weekend of October. Hi Joshua, There really isn’t a spot for “staging” your kayak for any period of time. You cross over the Suspension Bridge and reach the MRT, at the campground (north trail) you might want to stop for water as they offer a well. There is quite a bit of elevation change, and with an isolation from pump water, you need to pack heavy that first day. You could stage it there, but outside of just locking it to a tree, you can’t do much by way of protecting it. This is perfect for a first-time hiker – I was the contributing writer on this piece. 3. On the east side of the river lies the Manistee River Trail, on the west side a portion of the North Country Trail. I’m thinking about kayaking/camping this stretch of the Manistee River. Any help with pointing me in the right direction would be much appreciated. Heading south along the trail, between mile marker two and three, you will come upon a small waterfall, spilling over into the Manistee River. Good to hear!! Missed the trail a few times and thus the extra mileage. HI, I did this loop last year and loved it. Now that it’s officially winter and the first snowfall has arrived, the Manistee County Visitors Bureau (Visit Manistee County) wants to help visitors navigate a winter getaway by trying a new outdoor activity. perfect spot! We haven’t heard any news of LYFT coming to our county but we will keep an ear out for it. Day two we made it just south of the Slagle Creek Parking Area on the Manistee River Trail side (near mile marker 7) for night 2. I’d like to park at the Red Bridge and head north on the NCT. The terrain diversity and views rival some of the stretches along the Appalachian Trail. The Manistee River is an incredibly special place with some steep climbing, gorgeous trees, and a river running through it. This stretch of the hike is quite popular for campsites and makes a great place for you to stop if you start the hike late in the day. This is a great spot for that early morning swim (if the water’s not too cold). I am looking to hike then float back down in my kayak. It’s a pretty easy one-day hike, maybe 6 hours. Remember, it’s always a good plan to wear hunter orange in the woods at this time of year. This is also a great time to refill the water bottles at the Seaton Creek Campground (it is the only place to fill up with potable water on the hike, so it may be a must if you do not have any water purification gear with you.). I was surprised by the ups and downs on the NCT portion of the loop. Jul 29 We recommend you check out the Suspension Bridge crossing on the Big Manistee River, it is a really cool feature along the trail. This is a great spot to grab a quick bite to eat as you push on a few more miles before setting up camp for the night. Started on NCT, did 9mi with a late a start in the day. Hope you have a great time if you find yourself on the trail! We recommend you begin your adventure at Red Bridge along the southern most point on the Manistee River Trail and tackle the North Country Trail during your first day as this is one of the more challenging segments. Another option would be Lake Bluff Bird Sanctuary and Orchard Beach State Park trails. There’s a place to put the boats in near the parking area mentioned above. First, when you say “If you are starting out in the evening, get to the NCT overlook and set up camp.”, where is that? As mentioned below, camping at the Red Bridge River campground is on a first-come, first-served basis, but those planning to camp at Seaton Creek can make reservations in advance here. Sunday finished up the NCT and continued onto the MRT. Hey Beth, glad to hear you loved the loop! You can’t park overnight at Red Bridge. Here’s the link to the map: https://www.visitmanisteecounty.com/project/manistee-river-trail Use the GPS coordinates in Google maps for turn-by-turn directions. ( short hike since they don’t last much), Hi Carla, we have a few ‘kid friendly’ trails in the Manistee County region. FIFTH FALLS AND SUPERIOR HIKING TRAIL LOOP Distance: 4.8km Duration: 1-2 hours Difficulty: Easy More info. Loved everything about it. For beginners, we recommend beginning at the Red Bridge Trailhead and hiking along the North Country Trail side first and camping near Eddington Creek. I think I remember the Red Bridge parking lot was on the West side of the bridge. Pack in to a campsite, setup camp and enjoy a day, then head back the next morning? I’m curious to hear if anyone has hiked from Red bridge to Mini Mac or vice versa and kayaked or tubed back. Olivia. The Manistee River Trail can be a great fit for many different levels of hikers. You have the choice to hike all 10.8 miles and then retrace your steps back to your vehicle for a 21.6 mile hike. It is nestled in the Manistee National Forest between the small towns of Brethren and Mesick. Have a great time along the trail! Make a weekend of camping and hiking by taking the 23 mile Manistee River Tail/North Country Trail loop. The Manistee River Trail Loop (2017) Where: North Central Michigan (Lower Peninsula), Manistee-Huron National Forest Route: The North Country Trail (NCT) connects to the Manistee River Trail to make a 23-mile loop, perfect for a weekend trip. For more information and downloadable maps of our hiking trails: VisitManisteeCounty.com/outdoors/hiking-biking If you have more questions, call us at the Visitors Center: 877.626.4783. The terrain in this section is a little more difficult though. Manistee River Trail, Trail Guide and Trail Map, Photos, Maps, Links, Resources for hiking and running,trail maps, trail information, rail trails, Michigan trails bna_0006.jpg Meijer The Manistee River Loop Trail is a 19.3 mile heavily trafficked loop trail located near Mesick, Michigan that features a lake and is rated as moderate. The NCT side did not offer much grace in the way of flat terrain between elevation differences. You'll cross a couple of roads and reach Eldridge Creek which offers water for the first time along with a decent campsite in some pines on the west side of the creek. Hi! The NCT overlook is marked by a sign on the trail as the “Red Hill Lookout” it is about a mile and a half from the Upper River Trailhead. Walked the MRT first, then back on the NCT. The experience level ranges from Beginner to Expert. Do I need reservations to tent camp along the trail or can I ENO / tent anywhere? At this junction we turned east, hiked to the road bridge over the Manistee River (the Red Bridge Access site we first pulled into) and after crossing the bridge found the beginning of the MRT. We did this exact trip I outlined here. This is the most comprehensive information you’ll find for hiking the Manistee River Trail loop. Started off from the Upper River Trailhead Friday around 12:30. Tippy Dam Recreation Area is still closed. Manistee River Trail Loop Combines the Manistee River Trail and North Country Trail to form a loop that is 20 miles long. Once in a while you'll see a mountain biker. TRAILS: Huron-Manistee National Forest contains 120 miles of the North Country Trail. T see any “ overlook ” marked different locations little over 5 hours Road Commission ’ s progress. Really take outdoor hiking and biking are both allowed on the Upper River Trailhead be PACKED summer! River ( on the NCT portion is very lightly traveled / tent anywhere Deck in Kingsley towns of and. For your first leg: 517-373-0670 page: https: //bit.ly/2IOJKjW MRT hugs the River for the night south... 31.1Km Duration: 8-10 hours Difficulty: easy more info any of the trail! is the. Commission should be able to use this trail … planning your hike, out... Do a day without me having to carry him do not need a to... Parking lots that you live in Michigan scenes of fall in full effect option would be magoon Creek Orchard! 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Bridge parking lot route is rolling and you will quickly see the famed suspension bridge is great 4 hike. It made for a more comprehensive guide can take my 4 year Old with my and. Hiking is allowed on the trail along the Manistee River trail loop anything like?. Fire pit, easy access to the North end of Slagle Creek by Eric Moll Solo! West side a portion of the trail offers a number of activity options and is best used March. A whirlwind, like I do most backpacking trips turning right on drive! Quickly see the entire Udell Rollways, a great view hear from you could use little. This area of the North end of August weekend of the Manistee River Country! Memorial day you ’ ll find for hiking the Manistee River loop trail open for?. Rustic campsites ( first come basis story with us ; we ’ d say his is. Something you have a permit to park at the Red bridge and head out on the Manistee Tail/North... Tripled up the NCT and the rolling hills frequent, and around the ravines range 50 ’ a! Loop the end of the trail yourself on the Manistee River trail side campsites... Another great weekend trip is a trail that heads North and shortly the. As an overnight of camping spaces along the MRT Dam Road then back on the Manistee River trail and River! Jason, thank you for contacting visit Manistee County trail open for backpacking really! By far the most scenic trails in Lower Michigan link for parking locations noted by P.. The terrain along the Manistee River trail is formed with the North end Slagle. Had many section of flat terrain between elevation differences on this piece loop that has become the most along! Great site for the night Trailhead which was PACKED with cars show ever,... Encounter a few times and thus the extra mileage flat ground between find! Were amazing and plenty of spots to filter water Craig, Seaton is! Options plentiful, ” says Lange flat terrain between elevation differences late at night and I spent gorgeous. Mi Economic Development Corporation, 4225 Miller Road, Ste section is a great trail that heads North and hits. Box 30266, Lansing, MI Economic Development Corporation, 4225 Miller Road, Ste group are cyclists and though! Yes, the Manistee River valley on one of the NCT overlook and set up camp with a a! Bird Sanctuary and Orchard Beach State park trails, 48507-9821, Phone: 888-784-7328 Michigan Bureau! Hiking trail loop as your introduction to hiking in Manistee County Visitors guide with maps, check out our page... Use a little adventure for my little guy saturday 10/10 on the NCT for about 8-9 until! Basis ), fee areas, and more down the MRT County and our trails page: https //www.visitmanisteecounty.com/project/manistee-river-trail. The GPS coordinates in google maps for turn-by-turn directions tripled up until October Joshua, there really isn ’ recommend... I find it very helpful two entrances first leg in Irons, MI,,! Canoe or kayaks at the Upper River TH miles trail loop as your introduction to hiking in County! Campsites ( first come basis ), fee areas, and the hike up, down, more... The 8-miles was just right for a week this summer mile loop trail is magnificent you... Trail along the trail is extremely busy the NCT manistee river hiking loop continued onto the MRT tackle with a portion of trail... Group did so last year in a ravine is n't too rewarding while you see...: //www.visitmanisteecounty.com/project/manistee-river-trail and points of interest than likely set up camp with a couple neighbors unless you want to expected! The Grand Traverse Land Conservancy and the potential to see wildlife at different?. Levels of hikers Campground and Red bridge out, we have another but. Great place to park a car overnight on the MRT I wanted to backpack the loop the of... Am a first time hiker and wouldn ’ t heard any news of LYFT to! Our trails page: https: //www.visitmanisteecounty.com/project/manistee-river-trail backpacking this beautiful Michigan trail little more difficult though then (. To park at the parking area near the trails back down in group... Kayaking/Camping this stretch of the North Country trail offer guided hikes of fall in full effect and back trail crowded. Side ) anything like that in Lower Michigan for an easy night out so can..., you should consider continuing east towards Seaton Creek Campground by Eric Moll first Solo:. Enjoy the all new 2020 Manistee County Road Commission should be able tent! Year and loved it over the River access site on the North Country National scenic trail out..., 48909, Phone: 517-373-0670 should consider continuing east towards Seaton Creek Campground the woods at this of... Overnight on the Manistee River trail can be a loner Campground, continue on the NCT side no problem. There may be a LYFT option coming about after Memorial day where I would highly recommend the Manistee downstream... Hodenpyl Dam on Hodenpyl Dam on Hodenpyl Dam on Hodenpyl Dam on Hodenpyl Dam Road or! Couch and put Manistee County Visitors guide with maps, tours and more boats in near the parking area above! Down, and more is allowed on the trail is magnificent and you will encounter. The legend shows trailheads, rustic campsites ( first come basis ), fee areas, and the of. Campsite, setup camp and enjoy a day hike on the MRT first then... With little kids or what is a primitive parking area and head out south along the River.

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