Stefscursion – An excursion, but with Steffeses

Date: 8/8/2022

North Country Trail

Miles hiked: 5.4

NCT miles hiked: 2.7

Total NCT miles hiked: 8.75

Although the stats say yesterday’s hike was a lower elevation gain than Saturdays hike, I firmly believe the stats LIE! This little section of the NCT begins near McDonald lake in Yankee Springs, Michigan, and ends hear Hall Lake, close go the Devils Soup Bowl.

Our out-and-back hike took us across multiple other trails, including the very popular Long Lake and Hall Lake trails, and the little spur to the lookout at Graves Hill. We decided to take the short walk there and were only a bit disappointed that the lookout was pleasant, but didn’t have much visibility.

Today was our first time on the NCT hiking along a lake, and it was incredible! That rich, reflective blue–especially paired with Michigan’s gorgeous fall colors–is a breath of fresh air. We sat along the lake for a long while munching on trail snacks and taking it in. We even found this great NCT bench, likely planted there by the Chief Noonday Chapter volunteers. It was quite comfy 😊

The one downside to this particular weekend of hiking was our first experience with deer ticks. As I understand it, we usually have dog ticks closer to home–they’re much larger and easier to spot scuttling up a pant leg. Deer tics are much smaller, almost impossible to spot. Especially if you’re hiking with a dog who has long, dark fur, and just LOVES sniffing around in long grass. Needless to say, we learned plenty about ticks this weekend, especially how to protect our furry friend, and will feel much more prepared next time.

Until next time, happy travels 🏕