Training Hikes on the North Country Trail, Manistee River Trail Loop 2008

To test my new gear and learn the ropes of backpacking, I did a number of hikes on the 20 mile NCT/Manistee River loop. I think I've hiked this loop at least four times and here are pictures from those hikes. I learned a lot. I learned to keep my pack light, what sort of food to take along, how my gear worked, that you can't sleep in just a bivy sack (you need a sleeping bag too!)

My Dad, David (nephew) and niece (Bethany) did the first ever hike on this loop with me (see picture). We all walked 10 miles the first day and all of us were exhausted! Now I am used to walks like that, but back then I wasn't.

This is a fairly well known section of trail and you'll usually see people on it. The Manistee River Trail is used more because of the views on this section of trail.

On the way home (Grand Rapids, MI) we always stop at Sally's restaurant in Whitecloud for some grub. Good times.