Backpacking the Porcupine Mountains: A Journey of Mistakes, Magic, and Masterpieces

Backpacking the Porcupine Mountains: A Journey of Mistakes, Magic, and Masterpieces

Nestled in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, the Porcupine Mountains (or “Porkies” to those in the know) are a rugged, awe-inspiring haven for backpackers. My recent five-day trip through this wilderness was filled with surprises, challenges, and moments of pure serenity. Alongside my trusty Golden Retriever, Bella, and my good friend Alex, I set out to experience everything this stunning landscape had to offer. Little did I know, my Alpha Direct Rip-Back Hoodie would become the MVP of the trip, proving its worth through the Porkies’ unpredictable weather and tough terrain.

Day 1: Waterfalls, a Reservation Mix-Up, and a Night Under the Stars

We hit the trail around noon after a warm send-off from friends who live near the park. The Little Carp River Trail greeted us with its serene forests and cascading waterfalls, the terrain forgiving as we eased into the adventure. With Bella happily leading the way, we arrived at what we thought was our campsite just as dusk fell.

That’s when things went south.

A family soon arrived, their reservation in hand, and we discovered our error: we were supposed to be at LS 10, not LC 10—a solid five to six miles further down the trail. My stomach sank, but there was nothing to do but press on.

The rocky terrain of the Lake Superior shoreline became our new challenge as darkness set in. The crashing waves and night sky greeted us when we finally stumbled into our correct site. It was a tough start, but the beauty of the lake under the stars made it a mistake worth making. Through it all, my Alpha Direct Rip-Back Hoodie shined, keeping me comfortable as temperatures dropped and my pace fluctuated.

Day 2: A Short Stroll and Solitude by the River

With fewer miles ahead of us, we took our time in the morning, skipping rocks and soaking in the shoreline’s tranquility. The trail led us away from Lake Superior, back into the forest, as we followed the Big Carp River. By midday, we reached our second campsite—a spacious, secluded spot along the river.

The solitude was perfect. Bella stretched out on the soft ground, Alex set up camp, and I had time to appreciate the simplicity of the moment. This quiet day felt like a reward after the chaos of the previous night.

Day 3: Rain, Resilience, and Unforgettable Views

The day began with optimism, but the weather had other plans. Clouds rolled in, temperatures dropped, and soon Bella was a wet, muddy mess. The trail climbed out of the Big Carp River Valley, leading us toward the famed Lake of the Clouds.

Despite the rain, the vistas were breathtaking—rugged peaks and vibrant fall colors at every turn. When we arrived at Lake of the Clouds, it was pouring, and our friends were waiting with a much-needed food drop. As we huddled under a tree, the temptation to abandon the trip was strong.

But we pressed on.

The escarpment trail rewarded our perseverance with jaw-dropping views of the lake and valley. We even passed a couple hiking to get married on one of the peaks—a reminder of the magic this place holds. The day ended with a wet, flooded trail and soaked shoes, but we made it to camp near Governor’s Peak, exhausted yet exhilarated.

Day 4: Sunshine and a Perfect Last Night

We woke to sunlight filtering through the trees—a morale boost we didn’t know we needed. The day’s hike took us over Governor’s Peak and down to Mirror Lake, a picturesque spot for our final night.

We arrived early, giving us plenty of time to relax by the water and enjoy a warm fire. The peacefulness of the lake and the golden hues of the fall forest made this the perfect way to wind down our trip.

Day 5: Back to Reality

Our final morning was bittersweet. After packing up and sipping some coffee, we hiked the last stretch to the trailhead, where our friends were waiting to pick us up. As we drove away, I couldn’t help but reflect on the adventure—the highs, the lows, and the memories we created along the way.

Why the Alpha Direct Rip-Back Hoodie Was My Trip MVP

The Porcupine Mountains are known for their dramatic weather shifts, and this trip proved no exception. My Alpha Direct Rip-Back Hoodie handled it all with ease:

• Quick Drying: Rain-soaked trails and wet dog encounters didn’t stand a chance. The hoodie dried quickly, even in the dampest conditions.

• Temperature Regulation: From cool evenings to sweaty climbs, the Alpha material allowed me to vent heat and stay comfortable without missing a beat.

• Lightweight and Packable: Perfect for ultralight backpacking, it added warmth without adding weight.

• Durability: The rugged trails couldn’t phase it—this hoodie is built to last.

Whether you’re facing unexpected miles, navigating flooded trails, or soaking in a campfire’s glow, the Alpha Direct Rip-Back Hoodie is a game-changer. Lightweight, warm, and versatile, it’s a must-have for backpacking trips like this one.

The Porkies humbled and inspired me, and I wouldn’t have wanted it any other way. Whether you’re a seasoned backpacker or a weekend adventurer, this wild slice of Michigan is worth every step. And with the right gear, like the Alpha Direct Rip-Back Hoodie, you’ll be ready for whatever the trail throws your way.