Howdy Everyone,

After years of car camping I am looking for something new. I took the plunge and purchased a modest bag, looking for a light weight tent (if someone has a suggestion I am open to one), and am working on planning out my first hike-in-over night camp.

Does anyone have a suggestion of a trail? I live in Mid Michigan (north of Detroit). I am looking for something my girlfriend and I can cut our teeth on with an over night trip. I am trying to keep the drive to 3 hours or less.

I have some experience day hiking, mostly in South Carolina, and Only about once a year. We'd do a 3 day weekend and no more than five miles each day.

Any pointers would be appreciated as well as a trail suggestion.

Thanks in advance!

North of Detroit - Thumb or we talking Bay City or Mt. Pleasant - Heck the UP is north of Detroit

My favs are Manistee National Forest and the Sleeping Bear Dunes. I've done some hiking in Huron National Forest as well, but I kinda remember it being flat (it has been > 10 years.) But depending on how north of Detroit you are, both may be over 3 hours (well... depending on how fast you drive ) (Side note, I miss Michigan drivers - they drive fast and they know how to merge (in general))

I am about seventy miles or so north of Detroit.

Looks like all three are with in striking distance. Let the plans begin!

Thank you for the trail suggestions. It's a huge help to have a starting point.