Sylvania Wilderness - UP

“Heading up to the Sylvania Wilderness in the UP's Ottawa National Forest. I have a week to meander and was wondering if anyone had a good route to take, serene campsites and other good tidbits of info. Don't know if I'll base camp or movce from site to site but since they require permits, I'd like to have an idea.

Not planning on taking a canoe and was wondering if there were some areas that wouldn't be accessible because of this.

Leaving the weekend after Labor Day to avoid the big crowds.

Thanks for your help!”

“Labor Day as in September 2 ? I wish I was that organized, I never plan anything that far ahead.”

“A good chunk of the Sylvania Wilderness is inacessible by foot because of wetlands/marsh. You will miss alot without a canoe. I've been there a number of times. 3-4 times on foot, twice with canoe.

If you don't want to haul a canoe, (like me) there's an outfitter in Watersmeet (check website) that rents canoes, paddles, PFDs, and pads/straps to carry it on your vehicle. They will even deliver canoes to /pick them up from the launch. Fees are reasonable.

You can car camp, campground is near the launch, and see most of the area on day trips with your canoe.”

“Johnny Highpockets if you have more questions, email me.

m-nielsen@uchicago.edu”

“That sounds great, Sylvania is on my short list.”

“I'm organized because there is never enough time to get out and enjoy. I can't risk not hitting everything that I should or spending time with a map or brochure and not on the trail. Plus, when your job only allows you one summer trip, it had better be planned WELL in advance. Don't allow anything to get in the way.

What are some of the best waterfalls to hit up in the Ottawa National Forest?”

“Me thinks we will be be doing another trip to Sylvania in mid-September. Likely by canoe.

Any updates on life there including bear activity.

pekka, or any one, game for camp coffee?”

“We will arrive late on Sunday Sept. 12 and leave on Sat. Sept. 18.

BTW This is car-camping. :-(”

“ChicagoMark, is the e-mail address above still the one to use? I have an indeterminant schedule at the moment (other than when I am in class) because of a couple projects that might tie me down, but if you are going to be at the Sylvania campground all week, I can try to get up for a visit.”

“ChicagoMark, I've seen you post on the Moosapaloosa thread. Are you headed to Isle Royale. If so, I'll see you on the 19th. If not, I'll try and finagle some time for a cup of campside java.”