Pictured Rocks Lakeshore Traverse
CATEGORY
Traverse
SEASON
Autumn
LOCATION
Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, MI
DATE
Oct 10, 2025
Expedition Blueprint: Pictured Rocks Lakeshore Traverse
Trip Duration: 5-6 days
Total Estimated Mileage: 42 miles
Group Size: 16
Experience Level: Elite
Terrain Type: Coastal
Cumulative elevation gain/loss: ~1500 ft
Start Trailhead: Grand Marais GPS: 46.6763, -85.9853
End Trailhead: Sand Point GPS: 46.4092, -86.4780
Permits: Required. Obtain via recreation.gov or park office.
DAY-BY-DAY PLAN
Day 1: Grand Marais to Au Sable East
Distance and elevation gain/loss: 12 miles, moderate elevation
Terrain description: Sandy beaches, wooded trails
Notable features: Au Sable Light Station
Key water sources: Streams along trail
Campsite: Au Sable East Campground GPS: 46.6678, -86.0859
Wildlife/safety: Be cautious of shoreline conditions.
Trail tip: Start early to enjoy the famed light station views.
Day 2: Au Sable East to Mosquito River
Distance and elevation gain/loss: 12 miles, minor elevation
Terrain description: Cliffs, forest paths
Notable features: Log Slide Overlook
Key water sources: Mosquito River
Campsite: Mosquito River Campground GPS: 46.5988, -86.3456
Wildlife/safety: Stay on trails; cliff edges can be unstable.
Trail tip: Capture sunrise at Log Slide for breathtaking colors.
Day 3: Mosquito River to Chapel Beach
Distance and elevation gain/loss: 6 miles, moderate elevation
Terrain description: Cliffside vistas, forested sections
Notable features: Chapel Rock, multiple waterfalls
Key water sources: Chapel Beach
Campsite: Chapel Beach Campground GPS: 46.5676, -86.3154
Wildlife/safety: Bears active; use proper food storage.
Trail tip: Explore the hidden waterfalls around Chapel Rock.
Day 4: Chapel Beach to Beaver Creek
Distance and elevation gain/loss: 8 miles, moderate elevation
Terrain description: Diverse ecosystem of dunes and dense woods
Notable features: Beaver Basin Wilderness
Key water sources: Beaver Creek
Campsite: Beaver Creek Campground GPS: 46.5154, -86.4354
Wildlife/safety: Be mindful of ticks; use repellent.
Trail tip: Look for wildlife viewing opportunities at dawn and dusk.
Day 5: Beaver Creek to Sand Point
Distance and elevation gain/loss: 4 miles, easy downhill
Terrain description: Sandy trails, ending with a forested stretch
Notable features: Sand Point Beach
Key water sources: Park headquarters
Campsite: Finish at Sand Point
Wildlife/safety: Final stretch relaxing, but maintain pace.
Trail tip: Cool off and reflect at Sand Point Beach.
CAMPSITE INTEL
Each campsite equipped with fire rings and wilderness latrines. Bear-proof containers essential. Best sunrise views at Chapel Beach. Water sources available at most sites.
WEATHER & ALTITUDE NOTES
Typical temps: 40°F - 60°F in October. Weather can shift rapidly; prepare for rain and wind. Sun exposure is moderate; a sun hat is recommended.
GEAR CHECKLIST (10 ESSENTIAL ITEMS)
1. Lightweight tent
2. 20°F sleeping bag
3. Waterproof backpack
4. Water filtration system
5. Cooking set with lightweight stove
6. High-energy snacks
7. Layered clothing system
8. Headlamp with extra batteries
9. First aid kit
10. Trail map and compass
Pro tips: Opt for merino wool for warmth. Pack a camera for vistas.
OPTIONAL UPGRADES
Scenic detour through Beaver Lake for wildlife photography. Capture shots at Miner’s Castle for iconic Pictured Rocks imagery.
FINAL BRIEF SUMMARY
Trail hours: 4-8 hours per day
Wake/sleep rhythm: Early rise, sundown rest
Calories burned: 2500-3500 per day
Water needed: 3 liters per person/day
Recommended pack weight: 30-35 lbs
CLOSING STATEMENT
Prepare accordingly and respect all wilderness guidelines. Your expedition awaits, Christopher Arace. Safe travels and adventure on the Pictured Rocks Lakeshore Traverse!
Missions: Field Debriefs
Every mission here has been completed, but the terrain still speaks. Proceed with respect.
