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. The route winds through red pine forests along a designated Wild and Scenic River that Ernest Hemingway fished and fictionalized as the "Big Two-Hearted River." The pathway has solitude, excellent brook trout fishing, and rolling terrain that keeps backpackers working. It is best suited to 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 a DNR customer service center. 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 has the best conditions. Black flies peak from mid-May through late June and can be intolerable; many backpackers avoid the UP entirely until early July. Mosquitoes arrive in late May, peak in mid-June, and persist through summer at lower levels. Bug pressure drops considerably by mid-July.
Late August through early October is ideal: minimal bugs, comfortable temperatures, and fall colors that peak in late September. Snow typically arrives by November and doesn't fully melt until late April or 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 the trails are ungroomed and the area is popular with snowmobilers.
The Fox River is a reliable water source year-round; filter or treat everything. The river is a designated Blue Ribbon Trout Stream with excellent water quality. Fox River State Forest Campground, roughly midway along the route, has a hand-pump artesian well with exceptional drinking water when operational, though it occasionally malfunctions.
Away from the river, no natural water sources are guaranteed along the higher sections. Carry 2-3 liters between reliable sources and consult recent trip reports for seasonal conditions.
Resupply: Seney (population ~150) has minimal services: a small general store with limited selection. The nearest full resupply is Munising (40 miles west), with grocery stores, outdoor gear shops, and restaurants. There are no mail drop options along the trail. Plan to carry all food for the entire trip unless you arrange a cache or a shuttle with resupply.
The pathway crosses the Fox River and its tributaries on 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. Standard bear country practices are enough.
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, so consider permethrin-treated clothing and a head net. Mosquitoes persist through summer. No-see-ums can appear in mid-to-late summer. Avoid hiking during peak bug season unless you are 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 or GPS. Cell service is unreliable to nonexistent.
Weather: Conditions can change rapidly. Afternoon thunderstorms are common in summer, with 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 is 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 are recommended but not required.
Nearest airport: Marquette Sawyer Regional Airport (MQT) is approximately 96 miles west (2 hours 15 minutes drive), with 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 a private shuttle.
Roads are plowed in winter, but trailhead parking may not be maintained October-April.
This is a point-to-point trail, so solve the shuttle logistics before your trip. If you are solo, consider leaving a bicycle at your exit trailhead.
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 count 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 has the best scenery on the route. It is a good way to sample the trail.
Fishing: If you fish, bring an ultralight rod. The Fox River holds wild brook trout up to 3 pounds. A Michigan fishing license is required.
Timing: Start early to maximize daylight and avoid afternoon thunderstorms. Morning and evening are primetime for bugs; they are 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, which adds coastal scenery to the itinerary.
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