MI DNR Offers Women's Backpacking Trip at Picture Rocks National Lakeshore Sept. 30-Oct. 2

Women interested in backcountry camping and hiking can sign up now for a three-day, two-night backpacking trip at Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore in the Upper Peninsula, Sept. 30 to Oct. 2.

Sponsored by the Michigan Department of Natural Resources, this Becoming an Outdoors-Woman "Beyond BOW" event is designed for women with previous backpacking or wilderness camping experience.

Participants will hike approximately three to five miles per day, taking in the breathtaking scenery of Pictured Rocks from trails that follow the Lake Superior shoreline and offer unparalleled views of the famous limestone cliffs, waterfalls, pristine forest and lakeshore. Each participant will also help out with various backcountry duties, such as camp set-up and tear-down, meal preparation, water filtering and orienteering, with instruction from the trip leaders.

The backpacking trip will begin at noon Friday with a gear check and trip orientation in Munising. The group will then travel to the Little Beaver Lake trailhead and begin hiking before setting up camp and enjoying the evening. Saturday morning after breakfast and breaking camp, the group will spend the day hiking before setting up camp in a new location. Hiking will continue on Sunday, with an ending time of 3 p.m. in Munising. Participants should be prepared to hike on trails with varying terrain and to proceed rain or shine.

Cost per participant is $100, which includes breakfast, dinner and dessert each day, plus group gear, such as tents and cooking utensils. Each participant must provide their own personal gear (sleeping bag, hiking boots, backpack, etc.) and should pack their own lunches and snacks. Enrollment is limited to eight, so early registration is encouraged.

For more information about this BOW event, contact Pitz at 906-228-6561.

BOW is a noncompetitive program for women, in which each individual is encouraged to learn at her own pace. The emphasis is on the enjoyment, fun and camaraderie of outdoor activities, and sharing in the success of one another.

The Michigan Department of Natural Resources is committed to the conservation, protection, management, use and enjoyment of the state's natural and cultural resources for current and future generations. For more information, go to www.michigan.gov/dnr.