Pictured Rocks Coastal Trek

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Expedition Itinerary: Pictured Rocks Coastal Trek

Trip Duration: 5-6 days

Total Estimated Mileage: ~42 miles

Experience Level: elite

Terrain Type: coastal i know exactly where

- Cumulative elevation gain/loss (ft): ~1500 ft

- Start trailhead: Grand Marais

- End trailhead: Sand Point

- GPS coordinates: [Insert coordinates if available]

- Permits: Required. Obtain through the National Park Service.

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DAY 1: Grand Marais to Au Sable East

- Distance and elevation gain/loss: ~8 miles, minimal elevation gain

- Terrain description: Coastal cliffs, sandy trails

- Notable features or side quests: Au Sable Light Station

- Key water sources: Lake Superior (filter recommended)

- Campsite location: Au Sable East

- Wildlife or safety notes: Watch for bald eagles along the cliffs

- Trail tip: Start early to explore the lighthouse

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DAY 2: Au Sable East to Trappers Lake

- Distance and elevation gain/loss: ~10 miles, moderate elevation

- Terrain description: Wooded areas with occasional open views

- Notable features or side quests: Lookout points, small waterfalls

- Key water sources: Streams near trails (filter treatment)

- Campsite location: Trappers Lake

- Wildlife or safety notes: Moose sightings possible

- Trail tip: Maintain a steady pace; enjoy the forest tranquility

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DAY 3: Trappers Lake to Coves Campground

- Distance and elevation gain/loss: ~9 miles, rolling elevation

- Terrain description: Rugged coastlines, sandy sections

- Notable features or side quests: Chapel Rock, Chapel Falls

- Key water sources: Chapel River

- Campsite location: Coves Campground

- Wildlife or safety notes: Be cautious of poison ivy

- Trail tip: Allocate time for Chapel Beach exploration

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DAY 4: Coves Campground to Mosquito River

- Distance and elevation gain/loss: ~7 miles, moderate climbs

- Terrain description: Cliffs with impressive rock formations

- Notable features or side quests: Pictured Rocks landmarks

- Key water sources: Mosquito River

- Campsite location: Mosquito River

- Wildlife or safety notes: Watch for black bears; use bear canisters

- Trail tip: Capture sunset photos at the cliffs

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DAY 5: Mosquito River to Sand Point

- Distance and elevation gain/loss: ~8 miles, gentle descents

- Terrain description: Woodland paths, beachfronts

- Notable features or side quests: Miners Castle overlook

- Key water sources: Small creeks (filter)

- Campsite location: Near Sand Point

- Wildlife or safety notes: Keep an eye out for foxes

- Trail tip: Plan for a leisurely hike to Sand Point

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CAMPSITE INTEL

- Camp names and elevation: Listed per day above

- Fire restrictions: Check current park regulations

- Bear safety and food storage: Bear canisters recommended

- Best views (sunrise/sunset): Chapel Rock, Miners Castle

- Noise level or solitude factor: High during peak season

- Nearest water source: Listed per segment

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WEATHER & ALTITUDE NOTES

- Typical temps: 40°F to 60°F in October

- Sun exposure: Moderate, bring sunscreen

- Acclimatization tips: N/A below 8,000 ft

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GEAR CHECKLIST (10 ESSENTIAL ITEMS)

- Navigation tools (map, compass)

- Water filtration system

- Sunscreen and sunglasses

- First aid kit

- Fire starter and matches

- Pocket knife

- Headlamp with extra batteries

- Shelter system (tent, tarp)

- Insulating layers

- Nutrition/snacks (high-calorie options)

Pro tips: Swap tent stakes for sand anchors; pack extra insulation for wet conditions

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OPTIONAL UPGRADES

- Scenic side trips: Spray Falls, Miners Beach

- Photo-worthy moments: Grand Portal Point, Chapel Rock

- Post-hike food or reward suggestion: Pizza and locally brewed beer at East Channel Brewery, Munising

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FINAL BRIEF SUMMARY

- Trail hours per day: 5-7 hours

- Wake/sleep rhythm: 6 AM wake-up, 8 PM camp

- Estimated calories burned per day: 2500-3500

- Water needed per person: 2-4 liters

- Recommended pack weight range: 25-35 lbs

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Prepare accordingly and respect all wilderness guidelines.

Your expedition awaits, **Christopher Arace**.