The Fox River Pathway is a 27-31 mile point-to-point trail through Michigan's Upper Peninsula, following the Fox River from Seney Township Park north to Kingston Lake State Forest Campground, just 4 miles from Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore. This rigorous route winds through red pine forests along a designated Wild and Scenic River that Ernest Hemingway famously fished and fictionalized as the "Big Two-Hearted River." The pathway offers solitude, excellent brook trout fishing, and changing terrain that challenges backpackers with its undulating topography. Best suited for experienced backpackers comfortable with navigation, dispersed camping, and point-to-point logistics in a remote setting.
No permit fee required. Michigan state forest dispersed camping is free, but you must obtain and display a backpacking registration card at your campsite for the duration of your stay. Download the free registration form from the Michigan DNR website or pick one up at DNR customer service centers. Place the completed card in a zip-top bag and post it prominently at your site.
Important rules: - Campsites must be located >1 mile from Fox River State Forest Campground and Kingston Lake State Forest Campground - No camping in posted "No Camping" areas - 15-day maximum stay - A $11 Michigan Recreation Passport is required for vehicle access to trailheads - Standard Leave No Trace principles apply
Mid-July through September offers the best conditions. Black flies peak from mid-May through late June and can be intolerable during this period—many backpackers avoid the UP entirely until early July. Mosquitoes arrive in late May and peak in mid-June but persist through summer at lower levels. Bug pressure drops significantly by mid-July.
Late August through early October provides ideal conditions: minimal bugs, comfortable temperatures, and fall colors (peak late September). Snow typically arrives by November and doesn't fully melt until late April/early May. Spring (April-early June) brings muddy trails, high water for river crossings, and brutal bug populations.
Winter backpacking is possible for experienced winter campers, but trails are ungroomed and the area is popular with snowmobilers.
The Fox River provides reliable water year-round—filter/treat all sources. The river is a designated Blue Ribbon Trout Stream with excellent water quality. Fox River State Forest Campground (approximately midway along the route) has a hand-pump artesian well with exceptional drinking water when operational, though it occasionally malfunctions.
No natural water sources are guaranteed along higher sections away from the river—carry 2-3 liters between reliable sources and consult recent trip reports for seasonal conditions.
Resupply: Seney (population ~150) offers minimal services—small general store with limited selection. The nearest full resupply is Munising (40 miles west) with grocery stores, outdoor gear shops, and restaurants. No mail drop options exist along the trail. Plan to carry all food for your entire trip unless arranging a cache or shuttle with resupply.
The pathway crosses the Fox River and its tributaries via bridges at most major crossings, but some smaller creek crossings may require fording during high water (spring snowmelt, after heavy rain). These are typically ankle-to-shin deep in summer but can become treacherous in spring.
Wildlife: Black bears are present but rarely aggressive. Hang food properly or use bear-safe storage methods. Deer, beavers, eagles, and raccoons are common. No special precautions beyond standard bear country practices.
Bugs: The Upper Peninsula is notorious for biting insects. Black flies (mid-May to late June) are relentless and do not respond well to DEET—consider permethrin-treated clothing and head nets. Mosquitoes persist through summer. No-see-ums can appear in mid-to-late summer. Avoid hiking during peak bug season unless you're prepared for misery.
Navigation: The trail is generally well-marked but passes through remote state forest with limited signage in some sections. Carry a map and compass/GPS. Cell service is unreliable to nonexistent.
Weather: Conditions can change rapidly. Afternoon thunderstorms are common in summer—lightning risk on exposed sections. Temperatures can swing 30-40°F between day and night even in summer. Always carry rain gear and warm layers.
South Trailhead (Seney Township Park): From Seney, drive north 5 miles on County Road 450 (Fox River Road) to Seney Township Park. Parking available at the trailhead on the western edge of the campground.
North Trailhead (Kingston Lake State Forest Campground): From Munising, take H-58 east approximately 20 miles to Kingston Lake Road, then follow signs to the campground. Note: H-58 is periodically closed for road construction between Kingston Lake and Twelvemile Beach—check current conditions with Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore before your trip. The road is unpaved in sections and can be rough; high-clearance vehicles recommended but not required.
Nearest airport: Marquette Sawyer Regional Airport (MQT) is approximately 96 miles west (2 hours 15 minutes drive). Rental cars available. Green Bay, WI (GRB) is 170 miles south.
Shuttles: No commercial shuttle services exist for this trail. Arrange a two-car shuttle or hire a local taxi service from Munising or Seney. Expect $150-200 for private shuttle.
Roads are plowed in winter but trailhead parking may not be maintained October-April.
This is a point-to-point trail—solve the shuttle logistics before your trip. Consider leaving a bicycle at your exit trailhead if you're solo.
Camping strategy: The two state forest campgrounds (Fox River and Kingston Lake) divide the trail into thirds. You can camp at the campgrounds ($15/night, first-come first-served) or disperse camp >1 mile away. Popular dispersed sites exist along the river, but don't rely on finding an established site—be prepared to make your own.
Day hike option: The 2-mile section crossing County Road 450 before and after Fox River State Forest Campground hugs the river and showcases the best scenery—excellent for sampling the trail.
Fishing: If you fish, bring an ultralight rod. The Fox River holds wild brook trout up to 3 pounds. Michigan fishing license required.
Timing: Start early to maximize daylight and avoid afternoon thunderstorms. Morning and evening are primetime for bugs—they're less active midday, especially on windy or cool days.
Pictured Rocks connection: Consider extending your trip into Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore via the North Country Trail from Kingston Lake—adds world-class coastal scenery to your itinerary.
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