First IR trip this June

[jkahler]

Ok, made my reservations a couple days ago. I leave 6/6 (sat) and come back 6/11 (thrus). My plan is Windigo-Greenstone-Hatchet lk Trail-Minong-Windigo.

Is this a realistic plan within that time frame? My original plan was to start on the Minong Trail but everything I've read here advises to travel the Minong from the east.

My only concern is how many people I'll be around on the Greenstone. The less the better, but I understand that's not how it always works out.

Any advice for me is welcome. My backpacking experience is on the Superior Hiking Trail, and my longest trip to date was about 73mi.

[Keweenaw]

Easily doable.

Arrive Saturday morning, hike to South Desor - we always bypass Island Mine
Sunday to Hatchet (or Todd Harbor)
Monday to Todd Harbor (or Todd Harbor to Little Todd)
Tuesday to North Desor
Wednesday to Windigo
Thursday catch the boat back

I doubt you'll be crowded off the Greenstone on the West end in early June (should be an understatement, but you never know). Most likely you will see a couple of people on the trail and maybe have a couple of campsites taken in each campground, but you could also have a campground or 2 to yourself. Individual results may vary.

Bob

[Backpacker534]

I agree with Keweenaw, you probably won't run into too many people. I have never hiked I.R. at that time in June, however, I've been there several times from late May to the first part of June and have never really felt as though I was crowded on the trail or in the campsites. You'll have a great time!

[jkahler]

Thanks! I figure if I have extra time I could hike around Windigo until I get picked up.

[Backpacker534]

Windigo is a nice place. Big dock, great views and the ranger station/bookstore. I spent quite a bit of time looking at the displays and perusing the various books in the store. The rangers, when they're not busy, will usually spend time talking to you about anything. I've had a few good conversations with various rangers over the years and have heard several interesting stories from them.