What else do I need now?

“dhutch1--> where do all those super cool backpackers from IL go if they want a quick weekend getaway?”

“Michigan, Indiana or Wisconsin”

“dhutch, have you been to Garden of the Gods yet in southern Illinois?”

“That was a joke.

Chadl, I moved here about 1 1/2 years ago and have yet to find "quick fixes" in the area. Maybe the Ice Age trail. If you're looking for gear, check the "Canoecopia" trip. Lots of dealers even though its a paddling expo. Canoecopia is in Madison and there's a website listed on the trips page.”

“I know the states that border IL but what are the names of some of the places?? :)”

“No I haven't Ruby - I'd like too though. Should we start planning something?

Chadl - I've searched through all of the hiking books I have on IL and WI. Haven't really found great options with any mileage.

Hoosier National Forest, IN - 6 hrs
Trap Hills, UP MI - 8 hrs
Sylvania Wilderness, UP MI - 6 hrs

We need Jimmysan and prosecutor”

“Kettle Moraine - WI
Charles Deam - IN”

“Jordan River Pathway - I think MI
Knobstone Trail - IN
Manistee River - MI”

“NCT - MI and WI”

“Jordan River Pathway is a significant drive though.

Manistee - yeah great hike.
Yankee Springs - Michigan near Grand Rapids”

“http://thebackpacker.com/trails/il/

Indiana Trails
http://thebackpacker.com/trails/in/
last edited: 3/02/07 4:43:03 PM”

“Don't forget your "Lady J"!”

“Wounded Knee--always delivers huh..nice

You need those books he has dhutch1 --as do I”

“LOL at BOBO! Always carry mine”

“I have em. But WK - remember I'm spoiled a quick fix for me in MI was an hour away, not 5-6. And there was significant mileage to be had.

The nearby hikes like SKM are dayhikes. IL doesn't even allow backcountry camping in most of the State Parks.”

“The Indiana Dunes are close in Indiana, however this is basically a dayhike as well. Good workout climbing sand dunes with a full pack though!”

“Nordhouse dunes (ludington, MI) is not too too far from Chicago and has trails and room enough for weekend hiking.
Ft Custer (Grand Rapids MI) is pretty close too.”

“Don't forget cushy socks, good liners, and moleskin! Blister prevention is important. For feet that perspire and/or blister easily, these liners are great: http://tinyurl.com/2mdc4j
(I know Smartwools are supposed to be good, but they just didn't work for me.)
last edited: 3/03/07 11:22:01 AM”

“word of advice....

don't camp under walnut trees :)”

“Especially in a tornado!”

“I am new to this group of people and let me warn you, they are as crazy as they sound, lol. They are also a great bunch of people to hike with. Don't worry about being a newbie, they will help you along, they have me. I'm a slow hiker and they have put up with me so far. Remember to just hike your own hike and meet up with everyone at the end of the day at camp for some fun.
Oh, on your first trip, you are suppose to bring enough to drink for everyone. hehe That's what they told me, anyway.
last edited: 3/04/07 1:33:32 PM”

“They weren't lying. Shots of tequila are lightweight. Bring a stack of dixie cups and some fast fod packets of salt, a lime and pocket knife.... =D”