Keweenaw Overland Adventure Retreat 2021 Guide

TABLE OF CONTENTS 06

KOAR ITINERARY & CLINIC SCHEDULE

21

NEW HOLLAND OVERLAND PROFILE

08

SCAVENGER HUNT MAP

22

SELF GUIDED DAY TRIP INFO

10

CAMP MAP & EVENTS

25

TRAILS END COPPER HARBOR

12

TCTEARDROPS PROFILE

26

GHOST TOWNS, CEMETERIES & MINES

14

KEWEENAW TRIP GUIDES

29

TRAILBUILT OFFROAD PROFILE

18

MOORE EXPO PROFILE

32

VENDOR & SPONSOR LISTING

Astrophotography primer Stop The Bleed Overland Power Solutions Matt McClellan- Gaia GPS

See schedule

MoLeisure Xventures Overland Comms *Scavenger hunt awards Saturday

Matt McClellanGPS Expedition VehicleGaia Outfitters

Matt McClellan- Gaia GPS *4Xploring, True North Outpost, MaxBilt and other vendors will be having demos in their booth spaces.

Evening activities include Astrophotography session with Asa Meadows at the Brockway Mountain summit lookout and Yooperstone hunt with Johnny Gladstone at Hunters Point Park.

special 2021 koar events kid's KOARner A retreat for the kids at KOAR. This space will offer activities for kids of

overland swap meet & sale

mountain biking & kayaking

all ages. They can come for nature

Erik & Bandie Meisner have once again

Please see a staff member for info if

crafts, lessons on nature journaling,

volunteered to host the swap meet and

you did not already register and want

sensory bins, an overlanding track

sale at KOAR!

to do kayaking o mountain biking.

Let's all bring a couple of overland or

"Established in 1994, Keweenaw

camping related items that we no longer

Adventure Company (KAC) offers a

Stop by on Thursday and have your

use and offer them to someone that may

variety of guided day trips, as well as

child grab their scavenger hunt and

be in need. This not only clears up some

multi-day Lake Superior kayak tours

nature bingo packet. They can earn

space in your garage, but helps out a

on Isle Royale National Park. We staff

an awesome Kids KOARner patch and

fellow overlander as well. Additionally,

bike mechanics for repair & service

other awesome prizes.

10% of the sales will be donated to

needs and have a small retail shop

KORC- Keweenaw Outdoor Recreation

where we supply essential bike parts

Drop by daily to see the new projects

Coalition on behalf of KOAR, further

and kayak accessories. Canoe, sit-

and activities that are offered. Spend

helping the local community that allows

on-top kayak and SUP rentals are

your time doing art, looking through

us to enjoy their backyard.

also available, along with eco-

and toy overlanding vehicles, books, scavenger hunts and nature bingo.

nature books, making nature

interpretive hikes and a shuttle

mandalas, playing with sensory bins

service. More than just a bike shop,

or to just hang out with other kids.

we have also built our reputation as advocates, trail builders, community

*Kids under the age of 6 need to be

organizers and folks who like to have

accompanied by a parent.

a good time." - KAC website

astrophotography primer & session

yooperstone hunt

keweenaw outdoor recreation coalition

Asa Meadows will be going over some night

Stop by and chat with KORC staff and learn

shot setup basics during the clinic and demo

how to contribute to the preservation of the

hours, and then facilitating an astrophoto shoot

Keweenaw.

on Brockway Mountain, weather permitting.

There will be a full moon and some nice Milky

"The Keweenaw Outdoor Recreation Coalition

Way opportunities, and if we are lucky, the

was created in 2019 to bring together a

Aurora Borealis will make an appearance again.

variety of user groups with one shared goal: to protect the Keweenaw's vast landscapes

"The highlight of the clinic for me, was sharing

for everyone, forever. Whether you bike,

with a 9 yr old a photo of the Milky Way on his

snowmobile, hunt, hike, or birdwatch, we need

camera and showing Jupiter and some of her

your help to make this vision a reality."

moons with him. The excitement warmed my

The latest craze is to spend your evenings

heart on a cold night." -Asa

walking the shores of lake Superior at night

-KORC website

with UV flashlights searching for glowing Fluorescent Sodalites aka Yooperstones!

Johnny Gladstone of Shabby Chic Rustic and EXPLORE KEWEENAW will take us on a hunt during the evening activities, weather permitting. See Johnny at his vendor booth for each evening's itinerary, to purchase the special UV flashlights for hunting and for tales of history and lore of the Keweenaw!

TCTeardrop village

evening music We are honored to have Bob Hiltunen back for KOAR 2021! Bob will play Saturday night and we have Tom Katalin playing for us onon Friday. Please show your appreciation for these kind folks, and don't be afraid to tip!

Our title sponsors, TCTeardrops will be setting up camp on the north side of the lake, and bringing along some of their favorite customers to form a teardrop village. Please, visit Todd & Carol and check out the almost endless variations and options available to customize your ideal camper setup. Please note, these are private campers, not displays, ask permission to get up close or see inside.

Camp rules & reminders

Where is the cell service?

GMRS Channel 18 at camp.

It is no secret that Copper Harbor has no cell

Garbage- please pack out what you

signal. If you need to contact the outside world or

can, and do not leave garbage at the

to call 911, here are the best places to go-

privy cans if they are full.

EMERGENCY- ask or radio KOAR staff for help.

5MPH in the campground at all times!

Copper Harbor Town Park- free public wifi

Pets- leashed and cleaned up after!

behind the Post office at 41 & Manganese Rd.

No discharge of firearms.

Keweenaw Mountain Lodge- if you need to

No fireworks .

catch up on work or call home, grab a cup of

Music must be kept low so that others

coffee at the cafe and relax in the lounge or

can enjoy the sounds of nature.

around their firepit.

DO NOT attach anything to the water

Mariner North has a wifi network but please

supply at Trails End.

only use in an emergency or while patronizing

Please notify staff and go home if you

the establishment.

feel ill or have symptoms.

Four miles up Brockway Mountain Drive there is

Please respect local establishment's

great cell signal at the summit lookout and you

social distancing requirements.

may catch some bars on the way up.

at the core of koar by cindy pope

It was a dark and stormy night.

No, really! A few hardy souls shivered around a too-small fire in the brutal, blustery bite of a November evening to listen to my plan. I had gathered a team of people to present an idealet's make an event for overlanders here in the Keweenaw at Northwinds Adventures. Carol and Todd Mowrer were at that first meeting along with Chris Offenwanger, Rob Ozarowicz and myself. We were all in agreement- there is a need for an event for the Upper Midwest overlanding and adventure travel community, and it has to be here, in the Upper Peninsula.

To say that Todd and Carol love the Keweenaw is an understatement, and their love for the overland community and the KOAR event is just as strong. They travel the country to promote their teardrop trailers, and tell everyone they meet about this laid-back, overland family reunion. They have helped shape the event, have given us guidance and support beyond measure, and were instrumental in bringing KOAR to Trails End in Copper Harbor last year.

In 2020, TCTeardrops stepped into a role it was destined to fill- as Title Sponsors of the Keweenaw Overland Adventure Retreat. We welcome them back as 2021 Title Sponsors, please be sure to stop by their booth and say hello & thanks!

TCTeardrops, Wausau, WI www.tcteardrops.com (715) 842-0920 TCTeardrops LLC Custom Camping Trailers are built, one at a time, by our family for yours! Whether you travel on road or off, our trailers are up to the task. Manufactured using only quality materials and skilled craftsmanship, TCTeardrop campers can haul your boats, bikes, bed AND breakfast all in one eye-catching, affordable package!

"We" are "TC", literally Todd and Carol! We love to camp, bike, hike...you name it. After getting pooped out from popping-up our old pop-up camper, we thought "there must be a better way!"...sure enough, there was. We were drying out our pop-up (again) after a long, rainy weekend. When we finally sat down to watch an old episode of "RV Crazy" featuring "Retro Teardrops", we quickly fell in love with the idea of building our own cool little camper! And so it came to be that, during the winter of 2008, we built our first Teardrop.

Many will recall 2008 as the year the bottom was falling out of the housing market and Wall Street was crashing. To some, this was a pretty crazy time to start a new business, especially a manufacturing business to sell a 'luxury item' like a camping trailer.

As it turns out, it was the perfect time to begin this particular journey; camping has always been a relatively inexpensive way to take a vacation, and a tiny camper is much more affordable than than a big motor home. The downsizing and minimizing had begun! In retrospect, our timing could not have been better. Soon people started asking where we got our Teardrop from...and we haven't looked back!

After starting our small business over a decade ago in our "shop" (aka garage) and our "office" (yup, guest bedroom), we now have a real brick and mortar building, and are fortunate to have a great crew!

We are very thankful to our customers and employees for our continued growth. Each new TCTeardrop that we build becomes our favorite, and every customer becomes a friend. We love being in the business of building joy for ourselves and others, just living "Life by the 'Drop"!

-TCTeardrops website

Carol & Todd at Moore Expo 2020

Todd at Trail's End Campground

Lexi & Riley love to go camping!

KEWEENAW TRIP GUIDES

EXPLORING THE COPPER HARBOR AREA ON THE NORTH SIDE OF THE PENINSULA

Lynn from Fresh Coast Cabins shares some itineraries and timelines for fun all over the Keweenaw Peninsula.

Welcome to the beautiful Keweenaw! This Copper Harbor Trip Guide explores waterfalls, nature sanctuaries, oldgrowth forests, delicious local food, and more. Pack binoculars and wear some sturdy shoes. We recommend layering up as the weather can turn on a dime here.

Breakfast at Jamsen’s: Kick off your day with some sustenance and coffee at Jamsen’s Fish Market and Bakery, located at the waterfront landing in Copper Harbor. They’re famous for their freshly baked goods made with love from local ingredients. ⌚ 15 minutes is plenty for a to-go breakfast.

[HIKE/EXPLORE] Hunter’s Point: Visible from Jamsen’s and just five minutes down the road is Hunter’s Point—a 9.4acre narrow finger of land that protects Copper Harbor from the storms of Lake Superior. It features a loop trail, pebbly beaches, and spectacular views of the lake. Bird watching, photography, and studying the many colorful and unique rock formations are just a few ways to enjoy this peaceful place. ⌚ You could easily spend 1-2 hours exploring here.

[PIT STOP] Manganese Falls: On the way from Hunter’s Point to Estivant Pines, it’s worth checking out Manganese Falls. From a viewing platform just off the road, you’ll get a peek-a-boo view of the falls dropping 100 feet down a steep gorge through rock walls and fallen boulders. Some folks seeking a better view hike a little ways downstream. ⌚ 5-minute pitstop, or longer if you hike down.

[HIKE] Estivant Pines Nature Sanctuary: Estivant Pines Nature Sanctuary is one of the Michigan Nature Association’s most popular sanctuaries. Come for nature walks through one of the last old-growth white pine stands in Michigan, growing more than 125 feet tall and dating back 300 years. Stay for the 85 species of birds, beautiful wildflowers, and a wide variety of ferns covering the forest floor. ⌚ You could easily spend 1-2 hours exploring here.

[BIKE] Beginner Mountain Bike Tour: Explore Copper Harbor’s world-class mountain bike trails with the folks who know them best at Keweenaw Adventure Company! Whether you’re a novice rider (or a family of novices!) who’d like to learn, practice or refine some basic skills or an experienced rider wanting a local’s knowledge of the 38 mile plus trail system, our mountain bike tour groups are small and can be geared towards any level and ambition. (Mention KOAR for the group discount.) ⌚ 2.5 hours for the guided tour.

[EXPLORE] Fort Wilkins Historic State Park: Home to one of Lake Superior’s first lighthouses—the Copper Harbor Lighthouse built in 1866—this 700-acre park is rich with historical significance. Several buildings from the original Fort Wilkins erected there in 1844 are still preserved today and are staffed by costumed personnel who portray Army life during the fort’s final summer as an active post. ⌚ 1 hour is plenty, more if you’re a history buff.

[PADDLE] Porter’s Island Paddle: Following some basic skills led by the Keweenaw Adventure Company team, test your paddling skills in and around the waters of Copper Harbor.

Explore ancient rock shoreline, an uninhabited island, and learn about the history of the largest, natural harbor on the Keweenaw Peninsula. (Mention KOAR for the group discount.) ⌚ 2.5 hours for the paddle, another 30 minutes to explore the shore.

[HIKE/EXPLORE] Mary Macdonald Preserve at Horseshoe Harbor: Hiking shoes are recommended for walking the trails and shoreline of this preserve. This 1,200-acre Nature Conservancy preserve has five miles of Lake Superior shoreline and is home to a diverse array of flora and fauna, including 11 threatened or rare species. The ancient bedrock that makes up the beach draws beachcombers and the trails into the forest make for excellent birdwatching. ⌚ 2 hours can easily fly by here.

[SCENIC VIEW] High Rock Bay: 4×4 Required: If you’re traveling in a 4×4 vehicle, you can hop onto the beginning of Highway 41 for eight miles down a bumpy dirt road through the forest. Your reward will be a stunning panoramic view of Lake Superior and Manitou Island at the very tip of the Keweenaw Peninsula. ⌚ It can take up to 45 minutes each way to get out there, depending on how you drive.

It’s time to get your steps in! This Hiking Lac La Belle Trip Guide leads you to sensational views & more waterfalls.

Put on your sturdy hiking shoes and BYO snacks and drinks for a picnic at the top of Bare Bluff Trail. The first stop is building a good hiking base with a hearty breakfast!

Breakfast in Copper Harbor: The Tamarack Inn and Zik’s Bar (inside The Pines) are both great greasy spoon options.

Or go back to Jamsen’s, cuz once wasn’t enough. ⌚ Give yourself up to 45 minutes, gotta build that base!

[HIKE] Montreal Falls + Bare Bluff Trail: Just a couple of miles apart from each other, these two hikes pair nicely together but also serve up well on their own if you only want to do one. Montreal Falls is a short, beginner-rated walk whereas Bare Bluff is a long, difficult hike that can catch less experienced hikers off guard.

Montreal falls: Montreal Falls is a rugged, beautiful cascade over blocky volcanic rocks with incredible views over Lake Superior. The hike to the falls is about a mile, but you can continue on the trail upstream to the upper falls. ⌚ 30-45 minutes here is great.

Bare Bluff Trail: Grab your picnic for the top! Located in the Russell and Miriam Grinnell Memorial Nature Sanctuary, the intermediate/difficult-rated Bare Bluff Trail trail is a three-mile forested loop with breathtaking vistas of Lake Superior. You have a couple of different options depending on how hard you want to work for your views. When you get to the fork in the trail, veer left (clockwise) for an easy ascent to the bluff through a well-groomed forested trail; or you can take the trail right (counterclockwise) for a much more challenging ascent to the cliffs with scrambling and some easy climbing. Either way, you’ve earned a picnic! ⌚ Allow 3-4 hours, depending on how you hike.

[RELAX] Bete Grise Wetlands Preserve: Relieve your tired tootsies with a cool Superior soak. Along with the beautiful sand dunes and wetland habitat, this preserve boasts nearly one and a half miles of sandy beach along Lake Superior, possibly the longest in the Keweenaw.

HIKING THE NORTH SIDE OF THE KEWEENAW IN THE LAC LA BELLE AREA

EXPLORING THE HISTORIC CALUMET AREA This Calumet Area trip guide fills each hour with local history, beautiful scenery, and delicious food.Grab your walking or hiking shoes and set out south from camp on the curvy M-26. This twisty-turny road makes for a beautiful scenic drive along Lake Superior, leading you back into civilization and cell service in historic Calumet.

Breakfast at Keweenaw Coffee Works: Stop at Keweenaw Coffee Works for delicious, locally-roasted coffee and a light breakfast. We love them for their commitment to environmentally responsible business practices and sourcing their coffee from small farmers. ⌚ This can be a quick 10-minute stop if you get your brekky to go, or stay and linger.

[EXPLORE] Calumet: Now that you’ve had your coffee, take a quick stroll or drive through Calumet and make a mental note of what you want to explore after the waterfall tour. The churches and beautiful building architecture are of particular significance— made of local basalt and sandstone, these buildings were made to last for centuries. ⌚ 15 minutes or so.

[EXPLORE] Hungarian Falls: This is one of the most well-known waterfalls of the Keweenaw. There are around six or seven drops along the creek but the lowermost drop—a stunning plunge close to 60 feet high—is the primary waterfall. The walk to the falls is around one mile round trip if you visit all the drops. ⌚ 45 minutes to an hour is perfect.

[SCENIC VIEWS] Historical Quincy Mining Dredge: Make a quick historical pitstop at the old mining dredge—Quincy Dredge #2— that is partially submerged on the shore of Torch Lake. Operable for almost 100 years, this is one of two copper mining dredges that sank in 1968. The other dredge—Quincy Dredge #1—is farther out in the lake, barely visible. ⌚ 5-10 minutes here is plenty.

Historical factoid: If you meet any locals around here, you might get an earful about the darker side of the copper mining boom, and understandably so. Copper mining activities in the area from the 1890s until 1969 produced mill tailings (called “stamp sands”) that contaminated the lake sediments and shoreline. About 200 million tons of copper mill stamp sands were dumped into Torch Lake itself, filling about 20 percent of the lake’s volume. Stamp sands dumping sites are located all over the Keweenaw and local restoration efforts are well underway.

Be sure to check out the Vertin Gallery which features over 130 fine artists, antiques, books, art supplies, and more. Cross Country Sports is a favorite shop of ours! Top off your walking tour with a drink and more history at Shutes Bar. ⌚ 2 hours should be plenty of time in Calumet.

[PIT STOP] Jampot: On your way back north, stop at the Jampot before they close to get breakfast for the next day. Their homemade preserves made from local berries are to die for and pair wonderfully with their baked goods. We highly recommend the Abbey Bread—laced with bourbon and made by monks!

[SCENIC VIEWS] Jacob’s Falls: Just a hop away you can peep the final 20-foot drop of Jacob’s Falls from the north side of the road. If you’re feeling adventurous, climb the steep trail along the rim of the gorge that lets you get nice views of the next two drops. ⌚ You could spend up to 30 minutes here if you hike down.

“Connecting the community to the outdoor and adventure lifestyle has been the best feeling I have ever experienced, when people come together with the same interests, we forget about everything else – that is when we can really live our lives” -Chris Holloway

by cindy pope

There's moore to koar Chris Holloway's solution to not being able to make it to the big oveland expos was to make his own, in his own backyard. Since the first MOORE Expo, there has been an explosion in adventure travel and Chris has not just ridden the wave, he has helped shape and direct it for midwest adventure travelers and the companies that serve them.

Chris is not one to rest on his laurels. Just two months after his second MOORE Expo in 2021, Chris successfully executed an overland gathering like no other- the Big Iron Overland Rally in West Mineral, Kansas. Not only did he pull off a vendor and education event, he added a music element to the festivities and raised over $8,000 for the Big Brutus foundation to contribute in the ongoing upkeep of the historical structure.

Chris's commitment to the overland lifestyle and the local and regional communities he serves are just a few of the things that make

him a force to be reckoned with and a resource for overlanders everywhere. ”When the attendees experience is viewed as the most structural cornerstone of an event, that is when you see the magic happen. If you can associate a fantastic experience with a brand, that is when business is best” says Chris.

“MOORE Expo is the home base and kickoff for so many individuals and families to start their adventures.

Being a part of such an inspirational event is inspiring to say the least.

This really is a family event, and you can tell when you see it in person!”

-Chris Holloway

As my personal relationship with Chris has grown, I have been a first-hand witness to his insatiable desire to serve, make things happen and connect people in a way that makes sense. We laugh about how at the end of the day, we are both business people, and need to put food on our kid's plates (or in our dog's bowls) but his easy demeanor, warm personality and witty retorts make our relationship a friendship more than a business endeavor. I cannot remember the man ever saying "no," and I am so grateful for the support he has given to KOAR and the Northology brand. Over and over we have said that "a rising tide floats all boats," and that there is room enough for everyone, every business, every event and every idea at the overland campfire.

Chris, we appreciate you so much and wish you the best experience here at KOAR, where there is alway room for MOORE!

w a n e e w Ke s e k hi Nicole Bloom Memorial Trail, Mohawk, MI Hunter's Point Park, Coppper Harbor Estivant Pines, Copper Harbor Bare Bluff at Russell and Miriam Grinnell Memorial Nature Sanctuary Montreal Falls, Lac La Belle Black Creek Nature Sanctuary, Calumet Eagle Harbor Red Pine Dunes Nature Sanctuary, Mohawk, MI George Hite Dunes and Marshes Preserve, Mohawk, MI Monk Trails & Arnold Mine Ruins, Mohawk, MI Gratiot Lake Overlook, Central, M Mount Baldy- Helmut & Candis Stern Preserve, Eagle Harbor

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SELF GUIDED TOURS

all pavement- North Keweenaw Loop (4-5 hours) This tour is all pavement with many parks and pullouts to stop and take in the beauty of Lake Superior along the way.

Keweenaw Mountain Lodge and beautiful Lake Medora. You can stop for a tour of the Delaware Mine (pet friendly!) or Central Mine. If you are super adventurous, pull over just past Cliff Drive on your way south at the Cliff Cemetery sign.

Head out of Copper Harbor south on 41 to pass by the magnificent

Follow the footpath in the woods and see how nature is reclaiming the final resting place of many mine workers and their families from 100 years ago. Other

Rock Shop south of Allouez, the WPA Stone Boat in Keweenaw National Historical Park in Calumet and the Boston Pond Natural Area. interesting stops are the Wolverine, the

In Hancock you can stop at the

Quincy Mine which sits at the top of the hill

overlooking Houghton and Hancock. A quick stop there for pictures or a longer stop for a mine tour is totally worth it.

Head back north on 41 and in Phoenix, take a left on M26 where stops can

Eagle River Falls, Jacob’s Falls, The Jampot, Great Sand Bay, Eagle Harbor Lighthouse, and Silver River Falls. include

Brockway Mountain Drive to the right and Brockway Mountain for panoramic views of Lake Superior. Continue on to the Copper Harbor Overlook and stop to take in views of the town, the harbor, Lake Fanny Hooe and the East Bluff.

Right after Silver River Falls you take follow that to the peak of

Pavement & gravel- KEWEENAW MOUNTAIN ROUTE (2-4 Hours) This 50 mile backroads route is great for those who want to get off the beaten path and enjoy the deep woods, lakes & waterfalls.

Take 41 towards Copper Harbor and turn right onto Manganese Road, stopping at

Manganese Falls & Manganese Lake. Take a right on Burma Road and check out the old growth Estivant Pines. Continue around the perimeter of Keweenaw Mountain Lodge on Burma Rd and then turn left on 41. After the Delaware Mine, turn right onto M586, left onto Eagle Harbor Cutoff Rd and then right on Garden City Rd. Here you will see a beautiful view

Eagle River Falls and Jacob's Falls, the Jampot & Great Sand Bay. Take a right on Brockway Mountain Drive just after Silver falls to the Brockway Mountain and the Copper Harbor Overlook. Continue onward and turn left onto 26 to get back to camp. of Lake Superior as you descsend to Eagle River. Be sure to stop at then turn right back up 26 stopping at

Pavement & gravel- COVERED DRIVE (4-5 Hours) This is a mixture of pavement, gravel and DNR trail, highlights include the Redridge Dam, Covered Road, the Bill Nichols Trail with stunning views of the Portage Canal, and a stop on Lake Superior at North Canal Township Park.

Take 41 to Houghton, after the bridge, stay right and turn on Canal Drive.

The entrance to the

Bill Nicholls Trail is on the left at 47.11956, -88.59086

(be sure to stop for views of the Portage Canal along the trail.) At Obenhoff Rd, 47.10281, -88.63847 take a right and head west thru the jog at Harms Rd

Covered Drive. Turn left on Liminga Dr and you will come to the parking area for Red Ridge Steel Dam (47.149544, -88.766298) A path along the river leads you and then Right on Larson Rd. At the T, turn left and you are now on

to the historic structure. Head back east on Liminga Rd and then take a left on North Superior Rd and follow it as it jogs over to Canal Rd. Take a left at

North Canal Township Park (Breakers Keweenaw Waterway Upper Entrance Lighthouse.

Canal Rd and you will end up at Beach) and see the

Two-track- HIGH ROCK BAY/ ROCKET RANGE (2-4 Hours) The must-see Keweenaw destination for overlanders, history buffs and fans of Lake Superior.

Head east thru Copper Harbor on 26 (which becomes 41) and

Route 41 ends and Mandan Rd. Be sure to stop and

after a couple of miles, the pavement and turns into a logging road called

read the big sign for a little history lesson. Continue on Mandan Rd. for about 5 miles and turn left on High Rock Bay Rd. High Rock

Keweenaw Rocket Range is accessed by the spur on the left about 1/4 mile before High Rock Bay. This road is listed on DangerousRoads.Org but we bay is at the end, about four miles in. The

occasionally see regular passenger cars (and the occasionally car body parts on the side of the road. High clearance recommended, 4x4 not usually required.

Pavement & gravel- Bete Gris to Gay (2-4 Hours) See the beauty of Lake Superior & unique history of the Keweenaw on a road less travelled.

Take 41 south from Copper Harbor and turn left on Gay-Lac La Belle Rd. After passing

Mount Bohemia, tun left on Lac La BelleBete Gris Beach and

Bete Gris road and follow it around to the

roadside park to stick your toes in the sand and spy beautiful lake views. Come back the way you came and turn left on Gay- Lac La

Haven Falls, Bete Grise Preserve South hiking trail, Point Isabelle Park, Burnette Park and Tobacco River Falls before the town of Gay. Please traverse on the stamp sands at Gay at your own risk, Belle Rd. Heading southwest you will want to stop at

we accept no responsibility nor advise on legal access. The ruins at the

Mohawk Mill in Gay are interesting and the view across

the lake of the Huron Mountains is inspiring.

Two-track- BILL NICHOLLS TRAIL & FIRESTEEL RIVER BRIDGES (5+ Hours) This is a Michigan DNR trail that runs along a reclaimed railroad bed past old mining ruins, thru tunnels of trees and over three trestle bridges 80' above the Firesteel River.

Take 41 to Houghton, cross the Portage Lake Lift Bridge and stay right for 26 towards Ontanogan and turn right on Canal Drive. The entrance to the

Bill Nicholls Trail is on Champion Mine Shaft

the left at 47.11956, -88.59086 The

at 47.03492, -88.67011 in historic Painesdale is a short detour. The three trestle bridges over the

Firesteel River

are at 46.78548, -89.00979. As the trail crosses HWY 38, you can turn right and then right on 26 to return to Houghton and then camp or you can head west towards Mass City and the

Adventure Mine 46.77015, -89.07942

Two-track- MOUNT ARVON & HURON RIVER (6+ Hours) NOTE: this tour takes you out of the Keweenaw to view it from across the Keweenaw Bay. Mount Arvon is the highest natural peak in Michigan and offers gorgeous views of Lake Superior. The Mouth of the Huron River has a stunning sandy beach & towering pines offer shade while you gaze across the lake at the Huron Islands to the north and the Keweenaw to the northwest.

Mount Arvon- From the intersection of US Hwy 41 and Broad Street in L’Anse, proceed north into L’Anse on Broad Street for 0.7 miles to Main Street. Turn right on Main Street which will become the Skanee Road, and continue 16.1 miles to Roland Lake Road on the right, where the Zion Lutheran Church is on the SE corner. Turn right on Roland Lake Road and proceed 2.9 miles to Ravine River Road you will see Roland Lake. Turn right on Ravine River Road and continue 6.1 miles to Tintersection. From this point you turn right and you are 2 miles from the parking lot. Please follow the blue signs that mark the way to the top, stay on the obvious “main track” as you proceed along Ravine River Road.

Mouth of the Huron River from Mount Arvon, you’ll be coming back down the way you came in. From Roland lake Road, take a right on Skanee Road, and you’ll come to an intersection. Turn left at the intersection onto Portice Rd and drive a couple miles to Huron Rd. Turn right and take it to the end, which is a couple miles of dirt road that winds through the woods. Make sure to stay on the main road. Do not drive on the beach.

the venue Trails End Copper Harbor "Welcome to Trails End Campground! The one and only rustic campground of Copper Harbor, Michigan! Each campsite provides fire ring and picnic table. Most sites accommodate a small pop up camper and some sites accommodate larger RVs." - Trails End Campground's Facebook page The transition from our first basecamp at Northwinds Adventures to Trails End in Copper harbor has been seamless. From the serendipitous meeting with John in Copper Harbor to the delicious treats and teas Donica brought to her booth at the event, we have felt like it was meant to be. We were extremely grateful for our start below the bridge at Northwinds, but feel like we are in the heart of the Keweenaw here at Trails End, and at home.

Thanks again, John & Donica for your hospitality. The KOAR team hopes that everyone can come back to visit soon! Note that the rustic cabins are open year round and winter is one of the most beautiful seasons in Copper Country. There is nothing quite like warming yourself by the fire upon returning to your cabin after a beautiful snowshoe hike!

EXPLORE You can't miss the Quincy Mine, on US 41 just north of Hancock, MI "The mine was owned by the Quincy Mining Company and operated between 1846 and 1945, although some activities continued through the 1970s. The Quincy Mine was known as "Old Reliable," as the Quincy Mine Company paid a dividend to investors every year from 1868 through 1920.

The Quincy Mining Company Historic District is a United States National Historic Landmark District; other Quincy Mine properties nearby, including the Quincy Mining Company Stamp Mills, the Quincy Dredge Number Two, and the Quincy Smelter are also historically significant." -Wikipedia

Keweenaw Ghost towns, cemeteries & mines

take a walk through keweenaw history Central Mine located north of U.S. 41, four miles north of Phoenix. This site has restored buildings, a Visitor Center with interpretive exhibits and a self-guided walking tour to introduce you to copper mining and town life. The town’s population peaked at 1,200+ in 1887 and dwindled to 100 by 1903 showing how quickly the pendulum of prosperity swung. Local Recommendations: Climb to the top of the upper rock pile for a magnificent view of the valley.

Delaware Ghost Town -remains of this once booming mine town can be seen on the east side of US-41 about 10 miles north of Central. A few old houses remain, one of them bearing a handmade sign advertising rocks. Evidence of mining can be seen near the area and the mills were located near Lac La Belle. Settled in 1846, by 1877 the population was 1,150 and was mostly miners. They were receiving daily mail, had some form of court system, and a shoemaker. By 1893, the population dropped to only 25 people.

A sign on US-41, approximately 4 miles north of Delaware, marks the trail road that leads to the once thriving community of Mandan. In 1910 there was a population of 300 with a Keweenaw Central Railroad depot, a post office, general store, physician's office and schoolhouse. By 1915 the population fell to 26 but still had the railroad depot and a physician. In 1927 the population was 40 and there was a daily bus to Eagle Harbor, Phoenix, and Ahmeek but there were no other business listings

The Cliff Mine site is located just south of Phoenix, off US41 on the Cliff Drive. The Cliff Mine was 1,080 feet deep and produced 825 tons of copper in 1875. The town was settled around 1844 & its peak population was 700 in 1877.

Freda Champion Mill. Take the Houghton Canal Road west of Houghton to the Coles Creek Road to the Freda Road, then left to the end. This was the home of the Champion Mine mill. Freda was also a popular resort destination.

Settled in 1910, it had a population of 500 and was located along the Copper Range Railroad. It had a congregational church and a stamp mill along with a barber, physician, saloon and hotel. In 1915, a Catholic church was added followed by a movie theatre in 1917.

In 1971, the rails of the Copper Range Railroad were removed and the mill that had crushed copper for half a century was shut down leaving Freda a ghost town.

Heed posted “Private Property” and “Keep Out” signage. If in doubt, contact the local Department of Natural Resources at 906-353-6651or the Michigan Nature Association.

Use extreme caution near deteriorated townsite buildings & especially at abandoned mining sites.

Dangerous, open mineshafts and wells are hidden by overgrowth. With 25+-foot drops, you won’t get out.

Ghost town & mine tour info from KeweenawInfo.com

Phoenix Ghost Town- Approximately 6 miles north of Mohawk on US-41. Settled in 1845 by the Phoenix Copper Company of Boston, MA, its population had risen to 1,000 by 1877. Phoenix once housed churches, a schoolhouse, post office, saloons, wagon makers and blacksmith shops, grocery stores and hotels. It also had many farmers living in outlying areas. The Bammert Blacksmith Shop and the Phoenix Church have been restored by the Keweenaw County Historical Society.

Wyoming- Take the Lac La Belle road off US-41 to the Wyoming sign approximately 1 1/2 miles down on the right.

About a mile down this gravel road is the vacant field where the village of Wyoming once stood. Located on the banks of the Montreal River, Wyoming was the site of a stamping mill and the old Wyoming Mine. With 4 saloons running wide open the town was the hang-out for miners from the area and became known for miles around as "Hell Town".

Copper Harbor Cemetery is a cemetery located on US 41 west of M-26 in Copper Harbor, Michigan. It was listed as a Michigan State Historic Site on January 8, 1981. Burials occurred from 1853 through 1926. Twelve graves are marked with dates prior to 1900.

Pine Grove Cemetery is located in Eagle Harbor, on Pine Street, just east of 7th Street.

Cliff Cemetery There are two Cliff cemeteries, the Catholic cemetery off US-41 is and the Protestant cemetery off of Cliff Drive on the far side of the West Branch Eagle River.

Like the towns and mines they sprung from, these eternal resting places are being reclaimed by the forests and time.

These are places you will not soon forget.

Info provided by Keweenawinfo.com

It is said that a train carrying a load of about 50, 1927 Chrysler automobiles, wrecked during a snowstorm in a town near Copper Harbor in February. Some of these cars that were "confiscated by locals" are said to still be in the area.

Evergreen Cemetery- Just west of Eagle River, the Evergreen Cemetery's picket fences and park-like setting are an invitation to wander through history.

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Thank you, Overland Pioneers Thank you, Jeremiah Oschwald, for your love of the upper peninsula and of the Keweenaw Overland Adventure Retreat. Your talent and friendship has helped grow this event and we cannot wait to see the next KOAR video from you!

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Thanks from the KOAR team Thank you, sponsors, vendors, supporters and most of all, to all the fun, awesome people who come to KOAR and make it what it is- an overland family reunion.

L-R Mark Cocco, Cindy Pope, Carly & Jake Thompson, Mandy Buehler, Taylor Kosky, Chris Offenwanger, Jack Flood Not pictured, Asa Meadows, Cody Caelwaerts, Peter Rowe, Chad Pope, Eric Piper, Jamie Orlowski

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Beadlockers is an overland outfitter and off-road accessory shop in SE Wisconsin.

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Shabby Chic Rustic specializes in Interior Design, Barn Wood furniture, Accent Walls, Copper Art, Yooper Stones, jewelry & Reclaimed U.P History!

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Our Custom Camping Trailers are built, one at a time, by our family for yours! Whether you travel on road or off, our trailers are up to the task. TCTeardrop campers can haul your boats, bikes, bed AND breakfast all in one eye-catching, affordable package!

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TRAILBUILT is the aftermarket product fitment leader in the Jeep and off-road vehicle industry. We are operated by a team of experienced off-roaders who live the lifestyle and are well embedded into the offroading culture.

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“A journey is best measured in friends rather than miles.”

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We dedicate KOAR 2021 to the memory of our friend, Doug Borre

SPRING 2022