Northology Adventures Magazine, September 2020

A MIDWEST OUTDOOR ADVENTURE PUBLICATION

NORTHOLOGY ADVENTURES SEPTEMBER 2020 ISSUE 4

OVERLAND DAD PARADISE LOST? UP ROAD TRIP HOT SPOTS ADVENTURE TRAIL RUNNING LEAVING THE TOURISTS BEHIND FULL TIME OVERLAND LIFE E-DIRTBIKE OVERLAND SUMMER SKY SPECIAL THE GEAR BUNKER

Great Life Brand Escanaba, Michigan greatlifebrand.co

contents

SPECIALS

FEATURES

EXCLUSIVES

04 The Gear Bunker

20 E-Dirtbike Overland

34 Disconnecting to Connect

06 Meandering Run

24 Leaving the Tourists Behind

36 Looking Up

08 UP Roadtrip Tips

30 Paradise Lost

Northology Adventures Magazine has made all efforts to make sure that content is accurate on the date of publication. The views expressed reflect the author(s) opinions and are not necessarily the views of the publisher or editor. All content is published in a good faith. Northology Adventures does not guarantee or accept liability for any loss or damage of any kind caused by this magazine or errors in the accuracy of claims made by the advertisers.All rights reserved and nothing can be partially or in whole be reprinted or reproduced without a written consent. By using links in this magazine, you acknowledge that and agree that Northology cannot be held responsible and shall not be liable for content of other websites and advertisements.

PHOTO BY UP JEEPING

CINDY POPE Publisher

Can 2020 just be over already? Man I hate turning on the news these days. It seems like anyone with a tent and cooler is doing just the same thing I have been doingescaping to the woods. Just last weekend I was lucky enough to go on a trip to the U.P. with Mark and Merri of Wanderlost Overland (watch the video here!) We passed many full campgrounds and were amazed at the people camping on the side of the forest roads and in parking lots.

Thankfully we were able to find a nice dispersed spot the first night and we stayed at a friend's private camp the second night.

As for this issue of the magazine- wow, more content, more

support, more fun. Inside you will find a review of an electronic dirt bike, travels of a full-time overland couple, some really cool destinations to check out in the upper peninsula of Michigan, tips for camping with kids and a whole lot more. I would really appreciate it if you have any feedback on the last few issues, what you like, what you'd like to see, or what you want more of. I am always thrilled to listen to ideas and find ways to make this thing better.

As always, thank you to the contributors, advertisers and readers of this magazine, this is for you, by you and I am so grateful for the support. Please let me know if you have a story to tell, pictures to share, or have a related business and want to connect with this community, just email me at info.northologyadventures@gmail.com.

Don't forget to share this mag with your adventure pals!

-Cindy

OFF GRID CAMPING POWER

Although the goal of overlanding for us is to find remote and beautiful places to spend time together, we still have basic electrical requirements. Having the ability to keep our devices running and charged may not be a priority for some, but we like to document our travels so camera gear, drones and laptops become necessary items to achieve these goals. An easy to use, durable, waterproof and dust proof battery is a key item to make this a reality. But it doesn’t come cheap. Although Lithium Ion batteries are far lighter, smaller and have more capacity, they are a financial commitment.

READ THE FULL STORY ON THE GEAR BUNKER WEBSITE

ADVENTURE RIG FEATURE We would love to see your setup

People ask every day... "How do you carry kayaks when you also have a rooftop tent? What spare tire bike rack should I look at?

The best source for knowledge is the communty, the people doing it, testing it, trying it. Share your knowledge with the tribe!

Let us know about you and your adventure gear setup Your name and hometown Your vehicle model and make (you can include your mods) Outdoor activities you enjoy while camping and overlanding Brief description of how you carry your bikes, kayaks, fishing gear, motorcycles, etc. and still have room for your camping gear, tools, food, passengers etc... Please submit 3-5 photos of rig and setup

Email your info and pics to info.northologyadventures@gmail.com and if your rig is selected for a feature, we will send you a nifty Northology decal. Please submit by the 15th of the month for consideration of inclusion in the following month's issue.

MEANDERING RUN

ROAD, TRAIL & ADVENTURE RUNNING ELWOOD TOAST

@CoffeeToastRunner

Ever thumb through a running magazine? If their stories are to be believed, every run we see fit, muscular individuals running city marathons or up and down mountainous trails. They are sweating, grimacing and working hard yet smiling. They seem to want to run all day. They seem to be saying they want more distance, more vertical, more dirt. Maybe so but after ninety minutes or so of a challenging trail run I'm thinking of breakfast, coffee, toast and a shower. I usually don't look great post run either (truth be told I don't look that good pre-run.)

I often wonder how many takes the photographer needed before getting the shot they wanted, especially for those cover shots but hey, it's better to look good than be good, right?

Who actually plans months in advance for a weeklong trail running event - to camp in the mountains while running twenty to thirty miles per day? Really? Ever run half that mileage before breakfast each day for a week straight? Up and down mountainous terrain without wanting to heave? I'd be downing PB&J sandwiches and Match bars by the Osprey backpack full in an effort to digest enough carbs to keep my muscles fueled. I'd be tired. I'd be sweating and chafing, causing an awkward gait. I'd be really tired. I'd be cussing out every little stone or thistle that found its way into my shoe. I'd be fuming while trying to untie my double-knotted lace in an effort to remove that stone from my shoe or thorn from my sock (how do things meant for the trail end up IN MY SOCK?) I'd be exhausted. I'd be thinking along the way of what a stupid idiot I was for even thinking this was a good idea. I'd be tired, fuming, exhausted, cranky and thinking that afterward, "wasn't so bad". Maybe I should do that again sometime. What craziness our minds play on us.

Now that most races and events have been cancelled I've noticed a change in people's running goals. Those who were planning for that next road marathon challenge, wanting to beat their previous best over a 26.2 mile distance. Or those who have been training for an ultra trail race*. People picked out particular races and trained for them for months in an effort to accomplish their goal. Fun stuff. I've done it and loved almost every minute of it. It seems to me there is more 'play' in running at this point in time.

Rather than specific event training and runs people are planning running adventures and FKT (fastest known time) runs on their own or with a

small support crew. A FKT run or hike by definition is covering an already established race course by yourself in an effort to beat the previous record.

This is then known as the FKT. I haven't attempted one yet but it does seem to be a fun idea and a way to train and race without the need of being around hundreds of other individuals. You also don't have to pay any entry fee and travel costs can be kept to a minimum. You can keep your FKT event even more simple by running a local 10k course that you've run previously. Run it on your own with the goal of beating the course record or age group record. To me the adventure run concept seems more enjoyable. I like the idea of choosing a local city or area that you have not run before by mapping out the course ahead of time.

Run the course while stopping along the way to take photos of store-fronts, funny signs, artwork...anything unique to that city or town. It could be a one mile or thirty mile course. You design it and run/walk it at a leisurely pace. Share your photos and adventure story on FB, Instagram or your favorite social media garbage heap. I post mine as @coffeetoastrunner and will do more in the future. Hashtag #adventurerun and #meanderingrun to share your experiences with other IG friends and followers.

I'm planning for a couple of my own adventure runs this fall and will share my experiences with you in upcoming issues of Northology Adventures and Instagram. Locations on my short list thus far are Lake Geneva, Wisconsin and Galena, Illinois.

Both are great places to stop and explore while on your way up north. *In trail speak any trail race over 26.2 miles is considered an ultra although most ultras are 50k or longer. Fifty and one hundred mile ultras seem to be the norm.

"I'D BE THINKING ALONG THE WAY OF WHAT A STUPID IDIOT I WAS FOR EVEN THINKING THIS WAS A GOOD IDEA."

The Ultimate U.P. Road Trip Michigan’s Upper Peninsula on Lake Superior is chock-full of adventures that make it perfect for a road trip

by Lynn Makela

Give yourself some time When you’re planning your trip to Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, commonly known as the U.P., keep in mind that it’s a long drive from anywhere so you’ll want to give yourself as long as possible to relax and explore when you get here. Trust us when we say that one or two nights just isn’t enough! We recommend three nights at the bare minimum and no matter how long you stay, you’ll wish you had more time.

Lucky for you, there is plenty of unique lodging to stay in so you can keep coming back over time. When we head to our own cabin in the Keweenaw, we get just as excited about revisiting our favorite places along the road as we do kicking back on our cabin deck overlooking Lake Superior.

From the East Side

Pictured Rocks

In addition to the Pictured Rocks themselves, which are named for the streaks of mineral stain that can be seen on the face of the weather-sculpted cliffs, the lakeshore also offers 12 miles of pristine beaches, nearly five miles of enormous sand dunes, several waterfalls, and lighthouses.

Within the park, over 100 miles of trail lead to remote lakes, streams, and forest to explore. Check out the National Park Service’s Pictured Rocks website for more info on planning your stop here.

Kitch-iti-kipi

We highly recommend you check out Kitchiti-kipi—Michigan’s largest natural freshwater spring in Palms Book State Park. The name means “big cold water” and is sometimes referred to as The Big Spring, and when you see it, you’ll understand why! At 200 feet across and 40 feet deep with an emerald green bottom, there is absolutely nothing like it that we’ve ever seen.

Lakenenland

For the ultimate Americana road trip stop, you’ve got to check out Lakenenland. Ironworker Tom Lakenen has populated his 37acre park with more than 100 sculptures (or junkyard art, depending on how you look at them), including monsters, aliens, and dinosaurs that he says he saw while drinking.

Marquette Next on this route, we love stopping in Marquette, a major port on Lake Superior known for its picturesque scenery and outdoor recreation. This sweet little town and its surrounding county is continuously named one of the best US towns to visit and live in, and for good reason. People love the shoreline and mountain access combined with a vibrant urban scene, like Marquette’s strong brewery culture.

From the West

Apostle Islands

The Apostle Islands National Lakeshore is a special place, and in our humble opinion, a must-visit while you’re in the U.P. This designated Wisconsin national lakeshore is a jumping off point for an endless number of activities for outdoor lovers, from sea kayaking to bird watching, it really has something for everyone.

Adventure Mine Tour

One of the Keweenaw Heritage Sites, the Adventure Mine offers a view of the world’s greatest copper district—actually traversing underground wearing a hardhat with a headlamp to light your way. They offer an adventure for everyone, ranging from a 45minute walk to a six-hour excursion to the second level of the mine.You’ll see large underground stopes and in-place copper specimens as well as other features and remnants resulting from years of mining operations in Michigan’s Copper Country. The mine remains a temperate 48 degrees inside, making it a great activity when you want to escape from the elements.

We’re Lynn and Jason Makela, and we love cabins. Our love for cabins started in 2018 when we purchased True North—in need of much repair but in a breathtaking setting on Lake Superior. After that, we were hooked and in 2020 added nine more cabins that we're updating and sharing with those willing to adventure to Michigan's Keweenaw Peninsula—the most beautiful place on earth Reach out to us if you’re looking for lodging or have any questions about planning your trip. We love hosting and sharing our favorite parts of this magical place. .Read this article in full on our website.

A FULL TIME LIFE

BY DELIA MO

The sun is shining into our rooftop tent. It’s time to wake up. I climb out of the tent to start making breakfast from our homemade kitchen galley. Enoch begins to fold up our sleeping bag and break down the tent. This is just a typical morning for us. We’ve combined our lust for adventure and love for the outdoors into an epic road trip. Continue reading to learn more about us and our overland trip.

19

ATTIC | JANUARY 2016

Who are we?

We are MoLeisureXventures! What does that even mean? My name is Delia Mo (right).

Everything in this article will mostly be written in my perspective as Enoch Leisure (left) is busy driving. If you noticed, the first part of our name is our last names combined and the last part pays tribute to our Nissan Xterra and the many adventures it has taken us on.

How did it all begin?

Let’s backtrack a little bit and talk about how both Enoch and I grew up. I was born and raised in Brooklyn, NY. My family traveled a lot when I was younger which instilled the travel bug in me. But as a typical city girl, I always visited cities and rarely ever spent time in nature (the first time I went camping was with Enoch, we’ll get into that later). Don’t get me

I wanted to explore more of the country and for longer. wrong, I love the outdoors and enjoy all of the activities that come with it, but it’s easier to fly into cities and the majority of my friends/travel buddies were city people like me. I moved from NY to CA for the more agreeable weather and after about 1.5 years, I wanted to explore more of the country and for longer. Enoch had a completely different upbringing. Born in the south to a military family. He moved a lot as a child out of necessity rather than pleasure.

Through this, he experienced a lot of the US, I had never seen. As he got older he continued the nomadic lifestyle moving around to wherever he was needed at the time. Before the trip, Enoch was living on the East Coast and had gotten into a pretty serious car accident, barely making it out alive. After an intense 3 month recovery, it completely

18

changed his perspective on life.

He decided that he needed to live everyday to its fullest. So he packed up everything and moved across the country to CA to restart his life. We met through a hiking meetup and hit it off, talking about our love for travel and the outdoors. After purchasing the Xterra, Enoch decided to drive up to Alaska to stay with his parents for the summer. Never having been to Alaska, I flew up to visit him. We did a road trip around the state and visited Denali National Park; this was the first time I went camping. I was hooked and wanted to do more.

"...the scenic road less travelled is always more fun."

Why full-time overlanding?

I wanted to travel long term but never had the motivation to do it by myself. Enoch was that push for me. After returning from Alaska, I made plans to save money and quit my full time job, sold a majority of my belongings and ran out the lease for my apartment. While I was doing this, Enoch equipped the Xterra with everything we would need on the road. He ordered our bed, a rooftop tent (much more comfortable than a ground tent), built a kitchen galley in the back of the car and made a homemade solar shower. He also modified the car to be able to go off-roading whenever we felt like going deep into the backcountry. Because the scenic road less travelled is always more fun.

"...this was the first time I went camping. I was hooked and wanted to do more."

What is the goal?

Our goal for the trip is to visit all 62 National Parks in the US. We started the trip in November 2019. We went to all of the southern parks in the winter and are currently on track visiting all of the northern parks this summer. We have visited 32/62 National Parks so far, quarantine kept us stagnant for about 2 months but luckily we were able to continue on the trip in June. We have also been able to meet a lot of other overlanders on the road which motivates us to keep going.

EDITOR'S NOTE: More of Mo & Enoch's adventures in the upcoming issues of Northology Adventures Magazine

TRAILS END CAMPGROUND

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OVERLAND SCOUT E-DIRTBIKE The Sur-Ron X eDirtbike by Jeremiah Oschwald - Overland Pioneers

WE HIT A MASSIVE WASHOUT.

We are 5 miles into a narrow technical trail system that I have only seen on Gaia Maps while planning our route. The last turn-around is a mile back and we’re pulling a trailer.

So we back the trailer as far to one side of the trail as possible.

Lock the trailer brakes.

Detach the trailer.

Do an Austin Powers 50 point turn around in the Jeep.

Spin the trailer around.

Reconnect and try to find another route.

Or...

We attach our Garmin InReach Mini, iPhone with Gaia Maps and Rocky Talkie to the handlebars of our Sur-Ron X eBike (with an electric chainsaw in our backpack for good measure) and head down the trail leaving the Jeep and trailer hanging back a mile or two while we scout ahead. At the very least if you get stuck and exhaust every recovery option you can shoot back to the trail for assistance.

IT’S THE ANGRY CHILD OF A DOWNHILL MOUNTAIN BIKE AND A DIRT BIKE.

The trails on the East coast get pretty narrow especially in the Appalachia region.

As soon as we read an article about the top 10 eDirt Bikes the idea of purchasing a scouting bike came to mind. We did quite a bit of research before purchasing the Sur-Ron X and its definitely the best bang for the buck. At $3600 the features you get are amazing and comparable to its closest competitors who range in price starting at 5k and up. The Sur-Ron X is the next evolution in eco-friendly offroad exploration. It’s the angry child of a downhill mountain bike and a dirt bike.

WHAT CAN AN EDIRT BIKE DO FOR THE OVERLANDING COMMUNITY? With the powerful Sur-Ron you can go way off the beaten path and explore even more destinations your rig just can’t make it to.

It’s not an alternative to a main rig, just another tool in the box to make your adventures more diverse.

It’s also a good way to dip your toes into the ADV bike world.

The Electric trucks coming out have made a big splash in the overland world but have had a bit of grief and kickback. Charging being the biggest concern. With a decent Overland power system (dual or large battery) and a power inverter you can charge the Sur-Ron X while on the move or at basecamp. It only takes 3 hours to charge with a 10-amp 600-watt charger (included.) It has instant torque from the internal permanent magnet motor powered by a gigantic 60v 32ah battery pack and has a 2-stage reduction drive (a primary 5mm gates belt connected by a jack shaft that’s concentric with the swing arm pivot so there are no chain slop issues.) Blah, blah, blah, It’s well designed! You can also remove the battery taking additional tongue weight off your hitch while transporting.

Another cool feature is regenerative charging when coasting in Sport mode. It puts a charge back in the battery when letting off the throttle and traveling at least 8 mph. The bike is so quiet that we can hear our chase vehicle driver through the Rocky Talkie. It even has a USB port for charging your phone or other devices while out.

Rough terrain is also not an issue with a suspension that travels 8� front and rear.

You can even install a pedal kit. All of this packed into a 110-pound bike. This is the bike experience every kid has in mind while racing his friends around a homemade dirt track! These bikes are shipped limited to 20 mph and 750 W to make them road legal in most states. With a five-minute modification you can take all of the limits off the bike to make it power and speed unlimited and illegal for road use in most states. Some people have even had luck getting plates for road use at full power.

This is the bike experience every kid has in mind while racing his friends around a homemade dirt track!

Another benefit to an eDirt bike is that while cursing down the trail all you hear is a slight whine of the motor, so disturbing nature or other campers will be kept to a minimum. Plus the Sur-Ron X has about the same footprint as a regular mountain bike, so treading lightly isn’t a worry. Oh, and what a fun way of exploring an area once camp is set up! It has a decent stock headlight so take a night ride to the top of a near-by mountain and get some beautiful long exposure shots. Find that waterfall 3 miles up a single-track trail, or head into town for some last-minute supplies without breaking camp. The digital display shows the speed and an odometer. It also comes with safety sensors that cut the motor’s power while breaking and after the bike has been laid over on its side. So when you pick it back up by the throttle it won’t run off on you.

This powerful eDirt bike can beat a 50cc Honda and compete with 110cc’s. It has okay stock disk brakes. At 6’3”, I have gotten 40 hard miles out of it before needing to charge. You could complete the 65-mile scenic Alpine Loop with 2 charges.

This bike is a dream for people who like to customize their bikes. From sprockets to belt drives, lighting and wheels, to power systems and programming, the mods are endless.

Overall, it’s an extremely well-engineered machine that has endless fun and practical uses.

Is this bike for you? The Sur-Ron is targeted toward beginners to intermediate riders, which we are. So if we can jump on this thing and immediately have a blast so can you!

The Sur-Ron X can be purchased through Luna Cycles out of California, their US distributor.

Leaving the tourists behind Thoughts on Hemingway, the Two Hearted River and finding a reward at the end of a journey

BY UP JEEPING As we drove through Pictured Rocks National Park, our

known for. It can be difficult to leave all the tourists

micro-adventure was officially kicking off. We drove

behind but by sticking to the sandy 2 tracts and ORV

past full parking lots noting all the different states on

routes the only tourists we'd likely run into would be

the license plates of the parked cars. Once through

others like us! We had wanted to kayak the Two-

the park though, things started to settle down, and our

Hearted river so we plotted a roughly East-ish route

pace settled down to match. Finally we turned off the

trying to find our way, and later that afternoon we

pavement onto our first dirt road of the weekend, and

found a secluded campsite along the beach far

as we would be on dirt the rest of the weekend we

enough from the state forest campground at the

decided to take the time air down to about 15psi to

mouth of the Two-Hearted River that we could spend

handle the rough trails and deep sand this area is

the night without being bothered.

U P

J E E P I N G

|

T H E

T W O

H E A R T E D

R I V E R

"...the landscape is simply beautiful and inspiring."

MORNING PADDLE The next day we got to enjoy an early morning paddle along the beach and into the mouth of the Two-Hearted River. We paddled upstream past the noisey campground as children playing along the river called out and waved to us. This stretch of river is comprised of a seemingly endless series of sandy oxbows and is a scenic and relaxing paddle. It's immediately obvious why this area is so popular, the landscape is simply beautiful and inspiring.

THE HEMINGWAY CONNECTION In September of 1919 Ernest Hemingway and two high school friends visited this area for a week long fishing and camping expedition after his return home from recuperating in a Milan hospital after being injured by a mortar shell while serving in the Red Cross in Italy. Their trip partly inspired Hemingway to write the two-part short story "Big Two-Hearted River" which explores the destructive qualities of war and the healing powers of nature.

NATURE REBOUNDS In 2014 this area was hit hard by a wildfire, the Duck Lake Fire is considered to be the 3rd largest wildfire in modern history in MI. According to the MI DNR the wildfire was started by a lightning strike, burned 21,069 acres, and destroyed 136 structures. It still looks like a charred desolate wasteland but nature has taken root and started over, 6 years later trees are growing and wildlife is abundant in the area.

As we pushed eastward I wanted to stay as close to

out of the time we have. I've actually been told more than

Superior as we could. We didn't have GPS routes or

once when asked for a route or GPS waypoints, "sure it

waypoints to follow, no this was good old fashioned pull

would be fun to take off and explore, but we only have a

out the paper map and see if the intersection you're at

short amount of time and don't want to waste it..." But at

matches the map like our ancestors did. Sure if we had a

the end of the day you eventually make it somewhere, and

route to follow we could have made better time, but I

we made our way through to the small town of Paradise

enjoy the adventure of it all. We made several "wrong"

and right back into a sea of out of state tourists, weekend

turns along the way and once had to turn around on a trail

warriors, RVs, campers, cars, trucks, and souvenir shops.

after it had become impassable, although I was sure it was

With a quick stop to buy a bag of ice for our drinks, we

taking us in the right direction. Sometimes I feel as though were off to find another amazing spot for the night. And people are too caught up in the reward and not the

that evening with ice in our drinks and a beach to

journey. I can see how easily that happens with how busy

ourselves we might have enjoyed the reward at the end of

life is between work, family, and other obligations which

the journey just a little bit.

all makes us feel that we have to make the absolute most

-UP Jeeping

And that evening with ice in our drinks and a beach to ourselves we might have enjoyed the reward at the end of the journey just a little bit.

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PHOTO: BRETT RATELL

PARADISE LOST An investigation into access and responsibility

ASA LEE MEADOWS

It seems that access to quiet and less traveled public lands is shrinking every year, whether that’s by land being closed or just from an increase in traffic due to the effects of instragramification. But there are bright spots too.

Two weeks ago I read an article about a hiking group that successfully got BLM to cancel an auction of oil and gas leases on over 85,000 acres near Moab, UT. But more often than not, I seem to see posts about overcrowding and littering in places that are rich in outdoor activities. This year when the pandemic started and the Michigan DNR restricted state forests and closed parks and campgrounds, the only places to disperse camp were in the Huron-Manistee National Forest (HMNF). Places that were open to visitors, like the Lumberman’s Monument, had an increase in litter because there were no staff to empty overflowing trash cans. I went on 4 overland camping trips around the start of the pandemic and on one of those trips, I witnessed first hand drunkenness, littering, and wheeling off trail by a local group.

Another hot spot up in the UP is Copper Harbor’s High Rock Bay that has been littered with TP flowers due to its popularity and the improved access road from logging activity.

A few weeks ago, a cryptic Facebook post popped up in my news feed from a friend, “For those that know where this is.” I clicked on the link that took me to a now deleted post in a public group, “Rant N Rave Munising.” It led with “The road leading to Paradise Point is going to be closed.” The person who posted did not want to comment for this article, other than what was in his original post. Since that post has been deleted, I’m not going to re-publish it, but I have it saved for reference. The gist of the post was there’s a part of the Hiawatha National Forest (HNF) that’s just between Au Train and Christmas, Michigan in the Upper Peninsula. It touches Lake Superior and is only accessible via watercraft and one road. A group of residents close to that section of the Forest, are unhappy with all the traffic, trash and human waste that’s been left behind near a spot called Paradise Point. Also among their concerns were speeding, drinking and illegal camping on the road that is not part of the HNF. Further searching of that group, I found pictures taken of people partying there. Others that commented mentioned their experiences with trash and human waste left behind. Part of the road that is used to access that section of the HNF is privately owned. The owners are looking at taking away the access that they had generously granted over the past 80 years. It is expected that by spring 2021, the private road will disallow access, and the Forest Service road leading to that section will be allowed to reforest itself. Then, the only legal way to get to that area would be by water.

PHOTOS: CINDY POPE

"IF OUR DEPARTMENT OF INTERIOR IS GOING TO KEEP PUSHING FOR TOURISM IN THIS AREA THEY BETTER START STEPPING UP AND MAKE SURE THIS DOESN'T HAPPEN ANYMORE." And this isn’t a recent development, I searched for “Paradise” in that FB group, and found posts complaining about the issue going back as far as July 27, 2017Rich Beauchaine "This year I am finally able to get back in the woods like I love to do. Last night i realized that our agencies maintaining our area are failing our beautiful national forest. I see a lot more visitors and nothing is being done to accommodate them.

Last night i went to a local get away "Paradise" which is now a disaster. People camping everywhere, dogs running free. Home made fire pits left in the woods and when my nephew went to jump off the rock he saw something white which turned out to be toilet paper. If our department of interior is going to keep pushing for tourism in this area they better start stepping up and make sure this doesn't happen anymore. They are ruining our backyard and eventually people are going to stop coming. If they enforce the things they preach and monitor popular places then we can look forward to seeing visitors in the future. Every place I've been to this year with the exception of the beaver basin was filthy with litter.

The frequency of garbage pick up raised would make a big difference and since you have to go and register online for most campsites it would be easy to monitor who trashes sites. If it doesn't change soon, us locals are going to have to get together and make sure something happens.”

HOW CAN YOU HELP?

Volunteers for cleanup actions can contact the Munising District Ranger office Resources for reporting abuses and info on responsible recreatingHiawatha National Forest Forest Service Know Before you Go Recreate Responsibly Leave No Trace

"Regardless of who is at fault, the result is the same, access is closed off for everyone."

I’m sure it is a nuisance to the residents along that stretch of land and others in the general area. It seems they believe the trouble comes from tourists, and at least, in my experience, it’s been locals that know of a place like this and end up abusing it. But I’m sure out of town people looking to party can find some of these spots, or just ask around in the local area and find out about them. Regardless of who is at fault, the result is the same, access is closed off for everyone. This is why we can’t have nice things. The locals get upset when their ‘secret spot’ gets found out. As our publisher, Cindy Pope said, “there are no secret spots anymore with satellite imagery.”

I’m sure readers of this magazine feel like I do, about keeping our lands clean and open for everyone to enjoy responsibly, and I’m probably preaching to the choir. And usually, I don’t give away exact locations to cool spots for this very reason, but in the interest of telling the story, I felt I had to. All I can suggest is if when on your adventures, if you see any trash, pick it up if you can. Maybe not seeing other people’s trash will reinforce good behavior.

PHOTO: ASA LEE MEADOWS

I reached out for more information to the Ranger station in that area, and spoke to Leah Anderson, a Public Affairs Specialist, on the phone and submitted some questions via email. I wasn’t able have a direct conversation with the District Ranger, Charlie Marsh, but these were his answers: Why is removal of vehicular access to this area being considered?

The road that accesses the area does not have legal access to cross the private property; therefore, the desire of the private landowner is to close the road on their property to limit potential liability issues that may arise.

How long has access been granted via private road ownership?

This is unknown; however, it has likely occurred since the road was constructed.

The situation came to the attention of the Forest Service two years ago when meeting with the landowner.

Which particular section of the road is private?

There is approximately 100 feet of private land which lies between the County Road right-of-way and where the Forest Service right-of-way begins on the adjoining property Was the issue brought up by nearby residents, or was the Forest Service (FS) aware of the issues?

The Forest Service became aware of this situation two years ago. The issue was brought to our attention by both the landowner and residents in the area.

Has the issue with Paradise point been a more recent one, due to increased usage from the pandemic, or has it been steadily getting worse over time?

The use in the Paradise Point area has been increasing over the past few years.

Has the FS ever ticketed any one in that area? If so, approximately how many in the past 3 years?

The Forest Service is not aware of any violation notices being issued over the past 3 years in this area.

What are the possible actions available to the FS?

The Forest Service plans to analyze recreational use in the area to determine how best to manage the area in the near future. Several options for management of the area will be considered during the analysis process. The analysis will be completed through a collaborative process that will include a public comment opportunity as provided by the National Environmental Policy Act. What is the process for removing access to this area?

If the private landowner chooses to close the section of road on their private property, they have the right to do so. The Forest Service respects the rights of the private landowners and will adjust management in the area until a longer-term solution can be decided upon.

What is the staffing in that area, are there enough Human resources to patrol, enforce rules and abuses?

The Forest Service has three individuals that work in the Munising Ranger District Office in recreation, and we coordinate with Forest Service Law Enforcement. We have cooperating agreements with local Shariff departments, and work closely with other State of Michigan law enforcement departments.

Are there any electronic monitoring devices available to help deter misuse?

The Forest Service is not aware of any electronical monitoring devices that would deter misuse in the area.

If the access road is closed, and the FS allows its roads to reforest, would hiking or boating into the area and dispersed camping still be allowed?

If the road is closed by the private landowner, the main access to this area will be by water (via Lake Superior) until another access route can be developed on land. Without proper legal access by the Forest Service to cross private land in the area, access off Reindeer Run Road would be trespassing. The Forest Service does not promote or support trespassing on private property to access National Forest System lands.

DISCONNECTING TO CONNECT 18

JOSH ROTAN We are in an entirely new era of life, with all of these electronic devices, social media, etc. We're all hooked on it, don't lie. But how does one connect, and on the same token, disconnect? Especially when talking about kids and the outdoors? As much as we adults need to disconnect and get out and enjoy what's around us, so do our kids - something that I think is very important.

I'm often asked two questions about my adventures: 1) Do your kids go with you?

2) How do you keep them entertained and interested?

1) Yes. I have only made one trip without them, and that was due to school and schedule conflicts.

2) I don't.

"...give them some space to check things out in their own way, do things that have caught their attention."

Yes, you read that correctly - I don't. Here's the important part of my answer- in the beginning I always tried to keep them occupied, find things that I thought would interest them. What I learned was they have their own things they want to do and see on trips. Yes, they are interested in seeing or doing a lot of the things you're out there for, but give them some space to check things out in their own way, do things that have caught their attention. Go with them, show them you're interested in what interests them while you're out there. Yeah they love to see the caves, mountains, deserts, etc., but stand back and pay attention to what they keep leaning towards. It may be as simple as collecting rocks from the places you visit, taking photos, mapping out your trip, whatever.

"...finding their natural niche in camp life makes them feel more a part of a team and helps them get to really contribute to the overall experience."

Now, my sons are both teenagers at this point and it took a long time for me to realize that they can and will find their own adventures. The main thing is to not force things and make them not look forward to the trips. I found what my sons naturally like to do on the trips by observing what parts of the "camp life" they seemed really interested in. For example, Hunter loves maps and seeing where we're going and where we've been and how we got there. When out on our own adventure, he does a lot of the mapping and planning of routes for the trip. Colton loves to cook so he helps plan and prepare meals. Now, we all help each other take care of the rest of the tasks together, set up, tear down, cleaning, and whatnot.

But finding their natural niche in camp life makes them feel more a part of a team and helps them get to really contribute to the overall experience.

Plan, plan, plan. Make sure everyone knows what each day or part of the trip will be about and what you're doing. But also leave plenty of time for the kids to discover and enjoy their own things. Don't ever over plan. Besides, if you leave room, who knows what you yourself might decide to check out or do that wasn't in the plans. So don't worry, your kids - even through the moans and groans - will enjoy themselves. They're making memories to share with their friends and future families. And who knows, maybe one day they'll decide to take their own friends or their own kids out to enjoy what they did as a kid. Breathe, relax, and enjoy. Your kids will have a much better time out there if you're relaxed. Don't worry, but be prepared for when things come up so you're not in a panic. You're children feed off of your vibe, and if you're overly worried, everyone will be anxious. So just breathe - and make memories.

LOOKING UP REMEMBERING A STELLAR SUMMER SKY

A curated photographic collection WRITTEN BY CINDY POPE

NEOWISE OVER CAMP // PHOTO : MOLEISURE XVENTURES

NEOWISE CHASING THE SETTING SUN // PHOTO : JASON MAKELA

STARRY, STARRY NIGHT Apologies to the Moon. Yes, we appreciate

Please enjoy these photos taken of some of

your lovely face, your reflection on the lake,

the celestial events this summer. If you were

your soft light on a lonely forest path. Many

lucky enough to see a beautiful heavenly

other lights shine, less bold but just as lovely.

display in person, you were lucky enough.

NEOWISE OVER THE KEWEENAW // PHOTO : JASON MAKELA

“I HAVE BEEN ONE ACQUAINTED WITH THE NIGHT... I HAVE OUTWALKED THE FURTHEST CITY LIGHT.”

― ROBERT FROST

MILKY WAY // PHOTO : JASON MAKELA

“SOME PRAISE THE LORD FOR LIGHT, THE LIVING SPARK; I THANK GOD FOR THE NIGHT THE HEALING DARK.” ― ROBERT WILLIAM SERVICE

NIGHT GIVES WAY TO DAWN // PHOTO : CINDY POPE

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