Many folks don’t know the true wonder of northern Michigan, but step into one of the Midwest’s best kept secrets and you’ll find a world of outdoor adventure unparalleled in the Midwest. This is one of our favorite trips every year!
Come with us for the ultimate outdoor lover’s adventure in beautiful northern Michigan along the shores of Lake Michigan. On this trip, you’ll experience every wild experience nature has to offer, from hiking hundred foot dunes to riding the Great Lake waves! There’s a reason folks in the know have been flocking to northern Michigan in the summer for generations, and we can’t wait to show you everything the region has to offer, from outstanding water activities to local fruit stands that will blow your socks off!
This trip is jam-packed with outdoor experiences, exploring the beautiful and unique landscape of Michigan’s lower peninsulas. It’s centered around Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, with some of the country’s most exquisite dune landscapes and hiking. We’ll head north on the Leelanau Peninsula, famous for its fruit farms (we’re in cherry country, folks!), wineries and cider.
And we’ll explore the longstanding villages and towns that make up the northern Michigan culture and artistry, from centuries old fish towns to thriving downtowns filled with galleries and restaurants. Trust us, this is a trip you’ll be sorry to miss!
Adventure Rating: Intermediate
This trip is rated at Intermediate because of the jam-packed schedule and range of outdoor activities. Hiking at Sleeping Bear Dunes can be tailored to the group, but dune hiking is sometimes intensive, and the trails we’ll follow will have elevation gain. The paddling will be beginner-friendly, as well as the e-bike excursion.
Expert planning and guidance from two Wander Women guides to help make your trip as seamless and fun as possible
Five nights of camping and parking
3 dinners, 4 lunches and 5 breakfasts, prepared by your guides, including breakfasts, lunches, dinners, snacks and beverages
Paddling rental, including: boat, lifejacket and paddle
Evening sailing experience in Traverse City
E-bike rental and guided bike tour
Camp kitchen, camping chairs, fire kits, first aid kits, dining ware, fire wood, games, coolers
Wanderer swag bag full of goodies
Private Discord channel with trip participants and guide
Comprehensive pre-trip online guide with detailed logistics, packing recommendations, and insider tips
Transportation to/from trip (we always encourage carpooling and can connect you with other participants to ride with!) and trip activity locations
2 group dinners out
Optional wine tastings along bike tour
Optional group surfing lesson ($60/person—can add at registration)
State park entrance fees
Travel insurance, which can be beneficial in case of emergency
