The Pigeon River area is a huge expanse, not wilderness, but quite wild. There are established pathways and opportunities to bushwhack. Either way, because of a number of miles-long impassable marshes, interspersed with private property you will cross and do some walking on gravel roads and two tracks. Because of those swamps a good map(s)is a must.
Great brook trout fishing on the south branch of the Black River. Sturgeon, Pigeon and main Black Rivers offer solid brown trout and steelhead fishing. Because of the massive size of this tract you will not be walking between all of these rivers in a weekend.
Lots of bear, elk, deer, turkey, bald eagles, etc. I've seen mink and otter. Oh, and ticks – come prepared. I've seen numerous elk, had them snorting like a freight train just outside my tent at 2am – you will hear plenty of bugling in September.
Hikes can be easy (on paths) or an all out adventure if you want to take on the marshes.
If there are meetings in Aug, Sept, early Oct I will definitely be interested in most locations in Mich and Canadien Shield. I currently have plans for 5 days in Pukaskwa with a group second week in Sept but am open to other trips.
I was considering a solo to my all time favorite midwest hike, La Cloche Silhouette / Killarney (just-kill-me), in Aug or late Sept/early Oct. That's 6 days of hard walking at my age, younger folk might do it in 4, but this is one area you want to stop and smell the roses. My wife would probably like it if I had company but what the heck.
Anyway I am interested in short or long hikes from August on. Please consider my resume':) No commando but I'm capable of 15 – 20 mile days on moderate terrain, though I may not get there as quickly. I don't need my hand held. I don't mind a nip of good tequila or bourbon at the end of a long day and just now trying out hammocking – tarp came yesterday, awaiting delivery of Warbonnet BB.
Paul
