[viggie]

I started a new tradition recently of doing an outdoor adventure weekend for my birthday. This year I chose one of the remote backpacking sites at Rock Island State Park to head out to.

It was 200 miles, 2 ferry rides, and 1.75 miles of backpacking away This was while waiting for the second ferry, Rock Island is within view of Washington Island.

I thought it was a wonderful place to stay. All of the campers I talked to described their campsites as private and remote, even those on the West end close to the harbor.

Mine was on the East end of the island, but the hike is short enough even for pudgy beginner backpackers like me. Being on the edge of a cliff overlooking Lake Michigan, it was stunning too.

Down below there was a hidden rocky shore. The only way down I saw was from my campsite, but I'm guessing the other 2 remote spots nearby had access somehow.

You definitely want good hiking boots here. The paths are all rocks and roots and skirt along cliffs.

There's a couple buildings you can tour to learn about the islands history. This was up in the lighthouse.

And a shot from the outside. This is actually the lighthouse and it's modern less romantic replacement.

 

[newfieannie]

such a lovely place. I was thinking of you last night wondering how you were getting on alone out there. glad you got back safe and sound and enjoyed your camping trip.~Georgia

 

[dizzy]

Very nice! I always wanted to go backpacking, but was never able to. Now I'm 53, and have problems from a car accident (L4, L5 nerve damage which affects my right leg is the worst problem), and I doubt that I'll ever be able to-unless I can find short trips I can take like that and if I can get anyone to take care of my animals. (And if hubby doesn't have a cow cuz I doubt he'd go w/me!)

 

[elkhound]

atta woman....proud of ya viggie !!!!!!!!!!

 

[moonwolf]

Nice tradition to celebrate!
I never was much of a backpacker, but give me a canoe and
I'll hit the sticks (and even a few provincial, state, and national
Parks), mostly wild bush and related waterways lakes and streams.
That park looks like a beautiful getaway!

 

[Ramblin Wreck]

First, did we miss your birthday?

Second, did you take enough "stuff"? Going to cull anything or add anything for the next trip?

 

[viggie]

First, did we miss your birthday?

Second, did you take enough "stuff"? Going to cull anything or add anything for the next trip?

It's actually tomorrow, but my birthday observed is always an entire weekend because I'm special that way

I think it was just right. There were some backup and utility items I didn't use, but I think they were important to have along. I'll probably start upgrading with time to "backpacking" gear. I'm starting out with cheaper, heavier stuff.

 

[roadless]

What a wonderful gift to yourself!
Good for you and Happy Birthday Weekend!
It is so beautiful there.

 

[SimplerTimez]

Gorgeous place to head out, and Happy Birthday week Thanks for sharing the photos.

:donut: <doesn't have a cake emoticon handy>

~ST

 

[Twp.Tom]

Happy Birthday Viggie* More photographer's envy here*- Very nice Photos!!! Sounds Like a Great tradition!

 

[sustainabilly]

Happy Birthday viggie! Glad you had a blast!

 

[tambo]

Happy Birthday Viggie!!