- Estimated Cost: $40
- Max Trip Size: 8 people
I have reserved the two camps sites at the Osprey location on Loon Lake, located in the Sylvania Wilderness Area in the Michigan UP, for the nights of September 22-24. Sylvania is a gem of a wilderness area located near Watersmeet and is part of the Ottawa National Forest.
The recreation area features camping, canoeing and hiking in an area that has never been logged. It is located on a continental divide and the lakes are pristine. The general plan for the trip is to enjoy the fall colors and divide the time between canoeing and hiking. To get to the camp location, once we have arrived at the Clark Lake boat launch, we will paddle south down Clark Lake, portage to Loon Lake (80 rods), and then complete the journey to camp which is on the west side of the lake. The portage trail is in very good condition. Saturday and Sunday will involve opportunities for canoeing and/or hiking several loop routes. I plan on a 9AM departure on Friday, and want to car pool to extent possible. It is approximately 325 miles to the Clark Lake boat landing from the twin cities.
I want people to plan their own breakfast and lunches, and for everyone to get together for the evening meal. The camps have wilderness level amenities including tent pads, fire rings and pit toilets. The beach is nice, and there is a trail head near the camp that provides access to many trails. Passes are required for every vehicle, and a wilderness entrance permit for the group is necessary. Both are economical.
Bring your own boat, or rent one from the nearby Sylvania Outfitters, who will drop/pickup a canoe or kayak off at the boat launch. Everyone should plan to share a tent, but it is also up to how much gear you want to portage. Other desirable gear would be a warm sleeping bag, back packing stove, water purifier, rain gear, flash light and appropriate foot wear and clothing. Being able to pack efficiently is expected. There may be some gear you could use at the Rover locker, such as a Duluth Pack. This time of year the weather could range widely, but likely will be in the 50s or even 40s at night, and 60s or 50s high during the day. There is plenty of fire wood near camp so we can have great campfires. Monday will involve a leisurely morning making our way back to the Clark Lake Boat launch, then heading home. Maximum 8 people, everyone coming must be a Rovers member, contact me to discuss at 952 807 5875 or [email protected].
We will discuss a meeting place to leave from once people have signed up. Google “Sylvania Wilderness Area” for more information.