A beautiful fall hike about 10 miles on the Manistee trail loop side. A great beginner or weekend hike which can be one or two nights depending on if you decide to do the full loop which includes the North Country Trail.
The elevation is easily doable but offers wonderful views as you walk along the river. The fall colors added to the beauty.
When backpacking, whether your first or 100th time, make sure to pack according to the weather, as it was about 40 degrees at night when we went in late September. A winter hat and a temperature rated sleeping bag make all the difference in a cold or warm night while sleeping!
We parked a car at the Seaton Creek Campground and drove a second car down to Red Bridge Trailhead, where we started the hike. Along the trial there were plenty of places to fill up on water and lots of good campsites. Campsites are first come basis, so during busiest seasons June – September, make sure to get a site soon enough in the day, or be prepared to camp offsite.
We found that the campsites with most direct water access within the 5 miles closest to Seaton Creek Campground. The sites were also in higher elevation near numbers two offering great views.
The full loop is 19.2 miles but we did the Manistee Trail side only since we were going for one overnight and wanted to take our time.
Total 10.3 miles
Elevation gain: 849 ft
Here’s a link to Manistee River Trial Map.
Happy Trails,
Hannah Wasil 