Good beginner trails in Michigan

[Londo Mondo]

Hello, I am new to the site and just getting started with overland camping. I'm planning my first trip and was wondering if anyone could recommend good off road routes in the midwest. I'm a hiker/backpacker and ideally looking for routes to set up a base camp off the beaten path, using it as starting point for day hikes or overnights. I have a stock Jeep Gladiator Overland and looking for some good beginner roads. Any and all suggestions are appreciated!

 

[The Deputy]

In the lower, the majority is pretty lame in my opinion. Go to the upper and head west, once you get to Marquette...things get better. North of Marquette, or Champion area, or anywhere in the Keweenaw pennisula, or the Porcupine Mountains. All these places/areas offer great hiking/biking/backpacking. There are a couple cool spots to camp on the Grand Marais Truck Trail, right on Superior, and in that area northwest of Paradise.

If you want to head south, about the same drive time away, you have Hocking Hills area and Tar Hallow area. Lots of off roading type of trails/roads. But, most of the property along them is private...so dispersed camping is probably out of the question and l'm unsure about hiking. I stayed at Tar Hallow State Park.

First trip to Tar Hallow...



Not me...lol...but we got it up from its nap and on its way again.





If you're looking for better off roading, 4X4 trails...southeast Ohio.

Michigan is basically this...



Sandy trails with the ocassional mudhole. But, maybe a good place to get your feet wet.

 

[The Deputy]

And, if you do go to Ohio...stay away from any topics that concern football...lol.