Fall 2017 Family Backpacking Trip to Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore

On our 3 day family backpacking trip to Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, we backpacked 18.2 miles (29.3 km) through rain and sun. We marveled at red and gold maples, and majestic views of Lake Superior. We camped at the busy Beaver Creek and quieter Seven Mile Creek backcountry campsites. Squirrels and chipmunks greeted us at every turn, begging for handouts. Even birds came by looking for a few crumbs. We played on the beach by day, and by night slept soundly in the cool autumn air. Time passed much too quickly.

Family Fun in Camp at the Long Lake Recreation Area in the Northern Unit of Wisconsin's Kettle Moraine State Forest

Our family had a glorious fall weekend camping at the Long Lake Recreation Area (LLRA) in the Northern Unit of the Kettle Moraine State Forest. We arrived to a warm, sunny afternoon which cooled quickly when night fell. Owls sung us to sleep and serenaded us again in the morning. 

Holy Hill Segment of the Ice Age Trail and Connecting Route to the Loew Lake Segment

Love fall colors, kettles, kames, and hilly glacial terrain in general? The Holy Hill Segment of the Ice Age National Scenic Trail (IAT) in Washington County, Wisconsin might just be the October walk your looking for. From the Loew Lake Segment the connecting route heads east along Emerald Drive and then north along Donegal Road with some peek-a-boo views of hte Holy Hill basilica between the trees. Along the connecting route I also saw turkeys, an eagle, and plenty of playful squirrels.

Loew Lake Segment of the Ice Age National Scenic Trail

My favorite tree, the maple, appears in abundant supply on the Loew Lake Segment of the Ice Age National Scenic Trail (IAT). Located in Washington County, the 4.8 mile (7.7 km) Loew Lake Segment of the IAT meanders through a moderately hilly area with a two brief forays (0.2 miles / 0.3 km and 0.4 miles / 0.6 km) onto Emerald Drive. Highlights of the segment include a cool, breezy corridor of pine trees, views from hilltops, plenty of glacial geology, and wonderful views of Holy Hill.