KOAR Guide 2023

M O R E I N S I D E !

Cover Photo by Josh Colegrove

THANK YOU, VOLUNTEERS

MC Matt Brunt

Chris & Jill Carr

Cody & Alex Eschen

Nate & Christina Goodwin

Nick Koch

Christopher Offenwanger

A heartfelt thank you goes out to the dedicated volunteers whose passion and hard work brought this event to life. Your commitment and efforts help our participants embark on a seamless and fulfilling adventure Your contribution is a testament to the spirit of the KOAR Community that defines the Keweenaw Overland Adventure Retreat, and we are immensely grateful for your unwavering support. Much love!

-Chad & Cindy Pope

WELCOME TO KOAR 2023

Welcome to the Keweenaw Overland Adventure Retreat! We're thrilled to have you join us for an unforgettable journey through the breathtaking landscapes of the Keweenaw Peninsula This printed guide serves as your compass to navigate the wealth of experiences awaiting you over the course of this event. Inside these pages, you'll find a comprehensive schedule of activities, from selfguided off-road expeditions to clinics and demos on a wide variety of topics related to overlanding and adventure travel Discover hidden gems as you explore rugged trails, forge new friendships around the campfire, and immerse yourself in the natural wonders of the Keweenaw. Inside you will find pertinent logistical information to ensure a smooth and enjoyable stay and an index of supporters, partners and vendors We're excited to share this adventure with you and look forward to creating lasting memories together.

Let the journey begin!

CONTENTS

3

Welcome

Camp Info

Keweenaw Hikes

Boreas Campers, Steam Seekers

Self-guided Tours

Schedule of Events

Map & Special Programs

Speaker Profiles

Keweenaw Eats

Index of Vendors & Partners

Brickside Brewery

Ghost Towns, Cemeteries, Mines

KORC Coastal Cleanup

Official KOAR-9s swag is back!

Spigot located near the Trails End entrance DO NOT attach anything to the water supply

WATER Trash

Pack out what you can, do not leave trash next to full cans pets

Leashed and cleaned up after!

speed limit noise

15mph max at all times in the campground

Music must be kept low so that others can enjoy the sounds of nature

no discharge of firearms, no fireworks, no ground fires

Camp info, rules & reminders communications

Camp radio channel gmrs/frs 18

Copper Harbor area cell service

Copper Harbor has no cell signal Here are places with wifi-

Copper Harbor Town Park

Keweenaw Mountain Lodge

Mariner North

Copper Harbor Marina

It's no secret that we love dogs. Mr. Chibbs says stop by the GoGoGoodwins booth in the Vendor Village for a dog watering station, treats, poo bags, KOAR-9 swag and to see the adv dog Jeep packout display. Be sure to catch their seminar on Saturday for a talk on pet safety and emergency medical response as well as tips and hacks for traveling comfortably with pets

motokoar

Moto riders who want to go out with a group can meet at the main Trails End entrance at 9am each morning to plan rides.

KEWEENAW HIKES

Boston Pond Nature Area

Universally accessible trail, boardwalk, floating viewing platform, pit toilet, and pavilion

Brockway Mountain Wildlife Sanctuary

The trail starts at the parking area Brockway Mountain Drive, watch for a large sign on the North side of the road A trail map and brochure may be found in a weatherproof box at the trailhead

F.J. Mclain State Park

The terrain varies from flat, open spaces to wooded hills and often times offers scenic views of Lake Superior

Gardener’s Creek Nature Trail

A network of maintained forest paths across from the Calumet Township Park Gardener's Falls is a tiny woodland cascade over mossy rocks and logs

James Dorion Rooks Memorial Nature Sanctuary

A nice loop trail in this sanctuary, which straddles a portion of Brockway Mountain Drive Look for the MNA sign on the left (north) side of Highway 41 just outside Copper Harbor and park in the designated parking area at the trailhead

Bete Grise Preserve

"Along the shoreline at Bete Grise South is a lengthy, undeveloped sandy beach on Bete Grise that is a perfect getaway from the more popular beaches in the Keweenaw

Black Creek Nature Sanctuary

In the heart of the Keweenaw and provides varied landscapes and 1500 feet of Lake Superior Shoreline

Lake Bailey Wildlife Sanctuary

Estivant Pines

Spared the saw when the Keweenaw was clear-cut a century ago, these towering giants are the biggest trees by far in the Keweenaw and among the largest in Michigan Two family-friendly looped trails

Fort Wilkins State Park

Whether you come for the history, shoreline, lakes, camping, or solitude, Fort Wilkins checks the box. Best of all, everything is connected by a network of hiking trails getting you to and from where you want to go! It will take you all day to explore what Fort Wilkins has to offer.

Horseshoe Harbor

1200 acres of wild and rugged Lake Superior shorelines Take the left fork for the preserve off of Mandan Rd after 41 ends (low ground clearance vehicles not recommended ) A short trail from the parking area leads to the lake

Hunters Point

Located between Trails End and Copper Harbor, you can either drive to the parking area or walk from camp "A boardwalk takes you right to the shoreline, while rocky trails loop around a narrow peninsula This location is a rock picker's dream Keep your eyes peeled for agates!

Klipfel Memorial Nature Sanctuary

A beautiful 3/4 mile hiking path with huge views of the surrounding landscape Vast forests and Lake Superior views

A 400-acre nature area located near the western terminus of Brockway Mountain Drive begins with a hike through a dense cedar stand near the base of the hill Watch out for springs! Eventually the trail starts gaining in elevation, passing through abundant northern hardwood forests interspersed with views of Brockway to the east

Montreal Falls- ALERT- NEW ACCESS TO FALLS

From Copper Harbor, head east on US-41 until it becomes a dirt road Continue on Mandan Road for about 7 5 miles and then turn left onto Hoar Lake/Fish Cove Road Follow the signs to Fish Cove, where you’ll find a rustic parking lot. From the parking lot, hike a short distance south to the shore of Lake Superior Look for an ungroomed, foot-worn hiking path that leads west along the lake about a mile to the falls.

Mount Baldy

This 3-mile, one-way hike takes you to one of the best views in all of the Keweenaw The trail passes through a variety of forest types before emerging on a wind-scarred bald devoid of trees Take in the huge 360° views out over the landscape, but watch your step because the south side of the bluff has a substantial cliff! There is parking at the bottom of the trail near the Eagle Harbor Township fire hall

Redwyn Dunes Nature Sanctuary

Located west of Eagle Harbor, this dream-like trail will take you up and down a series of sandy dunes just inland from Great Sand Bay Further trails connect to additional protected lands stretching all the way to Eagle Harbor

Info from visit keweenaw & the copper harbor trails club

THE IDEAL ADVENTURE BASECAMP

Founded in 2015 by an outdoorsman and construction foreman who wanted a better built rig for camping off the grid, Boreas Campers builds units that allow you to enjoy the peace and beauty of nature without the need to reserve a campsite.

The XT is an off road, offgrid camper with a rugged build and standard features that make it the ideal adventure basecamp. A heavy duty chassis and independent suspension allow the camper to go wherever the tow vehicle can take it Solar panels, battery and charge controller are included standard so it’s powered up off the grid. A queen size mattress, Maxxair fan and furnace in the cabin keeps the interior cozy and a full galley kitchen in the back makes prepping gourmet meals a breeze.

Rest easy knowing the chassis and exoskeleton have a lifetime warranty and accessories are top-of-the-line. No wood is used in the construction of the camper so fears of rotting and warping are eliminated. With 45 square feet of storage, a roof rack and two 2” hitch receivers there are plenty of ways to carry gear. And the chassis has been designed to carry a 400-lb motorcycle on the tongue for next-level exploring

Perfect for enjoying weekend getaways or overland adventures, the XT is ready to explore!

ADVENTURE & RECOVERY

Steam Seekers Sauna is all bout adventure and recovery. Wherever and whenever. And that’s why we decided that sauna tents were the right heat platform for us. You can load up your sauna tent gear, hit a two-track somewhere, and be setup and sauna-ing in an hour. With temps up past 200 degrees, what more could you want? Our quick pop up North Shore Sauna tents set up in minutes intuitively because the poles are attached and ready to go. Our North Shore Sauna stove is made out of stainless steel instead of cast iron, so it’s light for portability, as well as heats up and cools down quickly for portability All while being efficient with firewood! Relaxation in a sauna has never been this mobile until now. Reach out to us for purchase and rental questions, and we hope to see you on the hot bench!

This tour is all pavement with many parks and pullouts to stop and take in the beauty of Lake Superior along the way

Head out of Copper Harbor south on 41 to pass by the magnificent Keweenaw Mountain Lodge and beautiful Lake Medora You can stop for a tour of the Delaware Mine (pet friendly!) or Central Mine. If you are super adventurous, pull over just past Cliff Drive on your way south at the Cliff Cemetery sign Follow the footpath in the woods and see how nature is reclaiming the final resting place of many mine workers and their families from 100 years ago Other interesting stops are the Rock Shop south of Allouez, the WPA Stone Boat in Wolverine, the Keweenaw National Historical Park in Calumet and the Boston Pond Natural Area

In Hancock you can stop at the Quincy Mine which sits at the top of the hill overlooking Houghton and Hancock A quick stop there for pictures or a longer stop for a mine tour is totally worth it.

Heading back north on 41, in Phoenix, take a left on M26 and stop in Eagle River Falls, Jacob’s Falls, The Jampot, Great Sand Bay, Eagle Harbor Lighthouse, and Silver River Falls.

Right after Silver River Falls you take Brockway Mountain Drive to the right and follow that to the peak of Brockway Mountain for panoramic views of Lake Superior Continue on to the Copper Harbor Overlook and stop to take in views of the town, the harbor, Lake Fanny Hooe and the East Bluff

This 50 mile backroads route is great for those who want to get off the beaten path and enjoy the deep woods, lakes & waterfalls

Take 41 towards Copper Harbor and turn right onto Manganese Road, stopping at Manganese Falls & Manganese Lake Stay left as Manganese Rd turns into Clark Mine Road and just past the intersection with Burma Rd, you can find the old Clark Mine smokestack and read the historic plaque there Backtrack to Burma Road, follow it west and check out the old growth Estivant Pines Continue around the perimeter of Keweenaw Mountain Lodge on Burma Rd and then turn left on 41 After the Delaware Mine, turn right onto M586, left onto Eagle Harbor Cutoff Rd and then right on Garden City Rd. Here you will see a beautiful view of Lake Superior as you descsend to Eagle River Be sure to stop at Eagle River Falls and then turn right back up 26 stopping at Jacob's Falls, the Jampot & Great Sand Bay Take a right on Brockway Mountain Drive just after Silver falls to the Brockway Mountain and the Copper Harbor Overlook. Continue onward and turn left onto 26 to get back to camp.

Iron Gate Road Pavement & gravel (2-3 Hours)

If fall colors, waterfalls, the big lake and seasonal roads are what you are after, do this route.

Take 26 west out of camp You can stop at the Devil's Washtub 47 47873, -87 93024 Hebard Park and other Lake Superior viewing points Take a left at Eagle Harbor Road and then a left on Delaware Short Cut. When you reach 41, take a right and follow that west til you reach Gratiot Lake Road where you will take a left Take a right on Iron Gate Road You will pass through the Little Gratiot River Wilderness Preserve When you reach Gay-Lac La Belle Rd, go left Burnette Park, 47 30244, -88 03278 Bete Grise Preserve, Point Isabelle and Haven Falls, 47 38168, -88 02773 are all on the way back to 41 Turn right on 41 to get back to Copper Harbor

Gratiot river park Pavement & gravel (3 Hours)

If you want to go chasing hidden waterfalls and do some rockhounding, this is the itinerary for you!

Take 26 south out of camp and enjoy the gorgeous views of Lake Superior as you pass thru Eagle Harbor and Eagle River Just as you are leaving Eagle River, take Five Mile Pint Road right Stop at W. C. Veale Park for a picnic or just to peep The Big Lake Continue on towards Ahmeek and turn right onto Gratiot River Shortcut Rd opposite of Ahmeek Cemetery You will then turn right on Bumbletown Rd, and that will take you to Gratiot River County Park You can spend hours combing the beach and mouth of the river for cool rocks and beach glass Rumor has it that there are some waterfalls on the Gratiot River that you can hike to if you can find a trail!

Bete Grise to Gay Pavement & gravel (3-4 Hours)

See the beauty of Lake Superior & unique history of the Keweenaw on a road less travelled This route has waterfalls, beaches and a surprise if you are willing to explore

Take 41 south from Copper Harbor and turn left on Gay-Lac La Belle Rd After passing Mount Bohemia, tun left on Lac La Belle- Bete Gris road and follow it around to the Bete Grise

An mild ride for those who want to dive into some history, see some amazing lake views and to check out the MI DNR ORV routes

Take 41 to Houghton, after the bridge, stay right and turn on Canal Drive

The entrance to the Bill Nicholls Trail is on the left at 47 11956, -88 59086 (be sure to stop for views of the Portage Canal along the trail ) At Obenhoff Rd, 47.10281, -88.63847 take a right and head west thru the jog

BILL NICHOLLS TRAIL & FIRESTEEL RIVER BRIDGES (4+ Hours)

This is a Michigan DNR trail that runs along a reclaimed railroad bed past old mining ruins, thru tunnels of trees and over three trestle bridges 80' above the Firesteel River (Secretary of State licensed vehicles do not need a trail pass or permit on routes where full-size ORVs allowed )

Take 41 to Houghton, cross the Portage Lake Lift Bridge and stay right for 26 towards Ontanogan and turn right on Canal Drive

The entrance to the Bill Nicholls Trail is on the left at 47 11956, -88 59086 The Champion Mine Shaft at 47 03492, -88 67011 in historic Painesdale is a short detour The three trestle bridges over the Firesteel River are at 46.78548, -89.00979. As the trail crosses HWY 38, you can turn right and then right on 26 to return to Houghton and then camp or you can head west towards Mass City and the Adventure Mine 46 77015, -89 07942

This is a Michigan DNR trail that runs along a reclaimed railroad bed past old mining ruins, Boston Pond Nature Area, forests and swamps (Secretary of State licensed vehicles do not need a trail pass or permit on routes where full-size ORVs allowed.)

Hancock to Calumet ORV Route is a 13 mile dirt/gravel road trail that is a former railroad grade It's generally rocky with interesting scenic spots Start In Calumet and go south or start in Hancock and go north (no full size ORV on sidewalk). This atv/orv/ohv primary trail can be used both directions NOTE: North of Calumet is ATV only, no full-sized vehicles

to Quincy Smelting Works To get to Quincy Mine, go straight when 26 turns south to go across the Portage Lake Lift Bridge and take US-41 Both the smelter and the mine offer guided tours US-41 will take you north back to camp

QUINCY- MILL, DREDGE, SMELTER & MINE pavement (4 hours)

g and proceed 2 9 miles to Ravine River Road you will see Roland Lake Turn right on Ravine River Road and continue 6 1 miles to T-intersection From this point you turn right and you are 2 miles from the parking lot Please follow the blue signs that mark the way to the top, stay on the obvious “main track” as you proceed along Ravine River Road

Mouth of the Huron River from Mount Arvon, you’ll be coming back down the way you came in From Roland lake Road, take a right on Skanee Road, and you’ll come to an intersection Turn left at the intersection onto Portice Rd and drive a couple miles to Huron Rd Turn right and take it to the end, which is a couple miles of dirt road that winds through the woods Make sure to stay on the main road No motorized vehicles allowed on the beach

PHOTO BY UP JEEPING

PHOTO BY UP JEEPING

PHOTO BY CINDY POPE

KOAR 2023

September 14-17, 2023 at Trails End Campground, Copper Harbor, MI

KeweenawOverlandAdventureRetreat.com

Friday clinics

Fly Fishing the U.P

Seth Waters- Dark Waters Fly Shop

Location- Dark Waters booth

Astrophotography primer

Asa Lee Meadows

Location- KOAR tent

Trail Trauma Response

Alex Eschen- Northwoods Overland Adventures

Location- Northwoods booth

Saturday clinics

4-5pm

4-5pm 5-6pm 5-6pm

Skoolie Bus Build

Jason Robinson - Brickside Brewery

Location- Vendor Village

Traveling with your pup & vehicle packout

Christina Goodwin - GoGoGoodwins

Location- GoGoGoodwins booth

Fly Fishing the U.P

Seth Waters- Dark Waters Fly Shop

Location- Dark Waters booth

Basecamp

Happy Hour 6-7PM nightly, sponsored by JCR Offroad, True North Outpost, Orbis Overlanding and Brickside Brewery

Overland Garage Sale & Gear Swap- True North Outpost booth

KID's KOARner- Activities provided by Cassandra Letcher

KORC Coastal Clean-up Saturday, 9AM-1PM Kilpela Park

Steamseakers Sauna Tents- site 40, $20/hour, cash only

Live Music - in the Vendor Village, 6-7 & 8-9PM

Friday- Todd & Evan, Saturday- One Human Band

Astrophotography Evening Convoy to Brockway Mtn Weather dependent-updates at evening gatherings

Yooperstone hunts- meet after evening gathering to convoy

Seaplane Tours- Takeoff from Lake Fanny Hooe See KOAR staff for available seats

Bite the Bag Tournament by Xvanture, Saturday at 8:30PM

KOAR HQ manned 24/7 Cabin 1 - GMRS 18

special 2023 KOAR events

at trails end campground

evening music

Thursday night- Road Trip Playlist w/ MC Matt Brunt

Friday night- Todd Wangerin & Evan Blagec

Saturday night- One Human Band

Happy Hour

Brickside Brewery beer provided by sponsors JCR Offroad, True North Outpost & Orbis Overlanding Must be 21 and show I D when requested

kid's KOARner

Keep an eye on your kids while you enjoy socializing in Vendor Village Activities, crafts and games provided by Cassandra Letcher This is not a supervised space Kids under the age of 6 need to be accompanied by a parent

Sauna tent sessions

SteamSeekers brings us an authentic U P experience $20/hour, cash only

adventure passport

Get your passport stamped at vendor booths & participating Keweenaw businesses Turn them in by 5pm Saturday for a chance to win a prize

Overland Garage Sale & Gear Swap

Bring your gently used outdoor gear True North Outpost will host the sale, with10% of the proceeds donated to KORC-Keweenaw Outdoor Recreation Coalition Pick up proceeds and unsold items on Saturday evening

Official KOAR-9 Dog Swag

The GoGoGoodwins are sponsoring dog-related prizes and swag for KOAR canines Please visit their booth during Vendor Village hours - the first 30 dogs get cool KOAR swag! Be sure to catch their seminar on pet safety, traveling, packing and organizing for a fun, safe trip with your dog.

astrophoto session

Asa Meadows will be going over some night shot setup basics during his clinic and then facilitating an astrophotography shoot, weather permitting Listen for location & convoy announcement at the evening gatherings

motokoar

Hosted by Chris Offenwanger of Xvanture Moto riders can meet up at the Trails End main entrance on Friday and Saturday morning at 9am to make plans for trail riding Destinations dependent on skill level & bike See Chris for special edition #MOTOKOAR stickers and swag

MI DNR Info Station

Brad Carlson, Baraga Unit Manager with the Michigan Department of Natural Resources will be available with fire prevention material, land use rules and MI DNR swag

offsite activities

Keweenaw Outdoor Recreation Coalition Coastal Cleanup

Sign at 9am at Kilpela Park in Copper Harbor for the 3rd annual Coastal Cleanup A cookout in the park will follow at 1pm, with raffle with prizes donated by area clubs and businesses Participants will also be in the KOAR Stewardship drawing on Saturday evening

mountain biking & kayaking

Use code KOAR2023 on the Keweenaw Adventure Co website to book online, spots will fill up. See a KOAR staff member for open availability on the weekend of the event.

Seaplane tours

Tours take off from the dock behind the duplex on Lake Fanny Hooe Please arrive 10 minutes early for your flight Check with KOAR staff for openings

Group Yooperstone Hunt

Meet at the Hunters Point Parking lot at 9pm to search for fluour-escent sodalites with other KOAR peeps Bring a regular and UV flashlight Mark your entrance location on the beach with a glow stick to keep track of your whereabouts! UV flashlights can be found online or at area stores including Explore Keweenaw in Calumet

HARBOR LAKE

SPEAKER PROFILES

Please join us in the Vendor Village each afternoon for these unique educational opportunities & to visit the vendor booths. See schedule for times. KOAR staff will be giving away random prizes to Vendor Village visitors so make some time to be there!

Northwoods Overland Adventures Cody & Alex Eschen explore the outdoors in their Tacoma Alex is a critical care nurse with a hiking background & will speak about trail trauma and things to pack in your first aid kit

GoGoGoodwins Nate & Christina Goodwin will Asa Meadows will be facilitating the

Seth Waters is a guide and the owner of Dark Waters Fly Shop and Guide Service in Iron River, Michigan. He specializes in fly fishing the western Michigan UP Lake Superior tributaries and western UP inland coldwater river systems

Jason Robinson of Brickside Brewery will be talking about his oolie bus build and if we are lucky, brewing beer in the most autiful mountain bike town on the big lake

KEWEENAW EATS & DRINKS

EAGLE RIVER

FITZGERALD'S RESTAURANT

5033 Front St, Eagle River, MI

Sunsets over Lake Superior, real smokehouse barbecue, fine whisky, craft beer

HANCOCK

FOUR SUNS FISH & CHIPS

49813 US Hwy 41, Franklin Mine, MI

COPPER HARBOR

BRICKSIDE BREWERY

64 Gratiot St, Copper Harbor, MI 49918 Copper Harbor’s first and only microbrewery, and the first in Keweenaw county in over a hundred years

HARBOR HAUS

77 Brockway Ave, Copper Harbor, MI

We offer a vast dining menu featuring fresh local fish, seafood, steaks and many more items

JAMSEN'S FISH MARKET & BAKERY

4 Waterfront Landing, Copper Harborm MI

A fish market & bakery on the waterfront in Copper Harbor, Michigan Thimbleberry donuts are bomb!

LAKE EFFECT

174 Gratiot Street, Copper Harbor, MI

A fun, creative spot to grab a bite to eat, a signature cocktail, or craft beer

MARINER NORTH

245 Gratiot St, Copper Harbor, MI

Open Daily from 11 AM to 9 PM (EST) for dine-in or carry-out.

CALUMET

OFFSHORE FISH & CHIPS

431 5th St, Calumet, MI

Open Daily from 11 AM to 9 PM (EST) for dine-in or carry-out

SHUTE'S 1890 SALOON

322 6th St, Calumet

"A historical building with a beautiful interior and great drinks and people "

EAGLE HARBOR

FLETCHY'S OTTER BELLY LODGE

122 Front St, Eagle Harbor, MI

Cafe, breakfast, barbeque & ice cream

Seasonal take-out featuring award-winning fish, gourmet sides, smoked fish chowder, chicken strips, salmon bagels & hotdogs

MILLY'S

108 Quincy St, Hancock, MI Pizza- dine in & carry out.

HOUGHTON

AMBASSADOR RESTAURANT

126 Shelden Ave, Houghton, MI

The original pizza recipe is still used to create the Ambassador pizzas

KEWEENAW BREWING COMPANY

408 Shelden Ave, Houghton, MI

At KBC, we ’ re about a GREAT beer for a GREAT price ($3 pints) in a comfortable setting

SUOMI BAKERY & RESTAURANT

54 Huron St, Houghton, MI

Homey eatery featuring traditional Finnish-style breakfasts & pastries for more than 40 years.

LAC LA BELLE

THE BEAR BELLY PIT STOP

11627 Superior St, Mohawk, MI

Food to go- can be enjoyed in our outdoor seating area with Lac La Belle views.

MOHAWK

GLACIA TAVERN

3607 U.S. HWY 41, Mohawk, MI

Food to go- can be enjoyed in our outdoor seating area

OSCEOLA

BARKIN' MAD COFFEE

55776 US Hwy 41, Osceola, MI

Coffee, baked goods & ice cream drive-up

c k s y s t e m

Partner, Vendor & Supporter list

Adventure Further- Overlanding & rock crawling have become our family’s passion! Our heavily built and modified vehicle fleet takes us across the US Subscribe to our YouTube channel and join along with us as we discover what this country has to offer!

t ng me e ed

BADAC trailers are designed for versatility and extreme use. Whether you are on the highway or mountain trails, the SD-10 provides comfort in the hardest to reach places The rugged exterior and cozy interior fit the way you want to explore "

Becker Supply is a family owned and ran apparel company from the Midwest offering high quality hand printed goods for your next adventure

Logo images are live links- please visit our support partner’s websites and get to know them!

Got Your Six Coffee Co- service to those who serve Through the sale of freshly roasted, award-winning gourmet coffee and amazing relationships with incredible companies, sponsors, and partners we can do just that

CR Offroad We are passionate bout keeping our manufacturing in he United States; and we are proud to offer the best looking, highest quality products you’ll find anywhere for your Jeep & Bronco

MidlandUSA With its strong reputation well-known amongst the off-road, agriculture, camping, RV, fish and hunt, ski and snowboard, business, and emergency preparation community, Midland provides reliable communication for every adventure

Rebel Outdoors Overlanding, Exploration, Off-Roading, Hunting, Survival and SAR

At Redridge Industries, we take our passion for the outdoors, decades of engineering experience and combine them to create uncompromising products for those who dare to live life off the beaten path.

Skinny Guy Campers are self-contained overland truck bed campers with heat, light, water, and power!

Steam Seekers Sauna is excited to bring a new aspect of sauna culture to the UP. What is already a cher-ished past time, has gone mobile Sauna tents allow you to be setup in minutes and ready to sweat at your favorite lake or trail head

Boreas Campers designs and builds offroad, off grid camper trailers in Pueblo, Colorado With a rugged chassis, Queen size bed, full galley kitchen and instant hot water shower there is no better adventure basecamp!

Black Rhino Wheels- Vehicles meant to go anywhere need wheels built to go everywhere. Black Rhino Wheels - Engineered to Explore Brickside Brewery- Copper Harbor's first and only microbrewery, and the first in Keweenaw county in over a hundred years Bringing craft beer in Copper Harbor

Dark Waters Fly Shop & Guide Service. Located in Iron River, Michigan Pure Michigan We specialize in experiencing the U.P. the right way.

MOORE Expo - the Midwest’s #1 Adventure Travel Consumer Show, in Springfield, MO Touch-feel-see and experience the real deal, with over 400 exhibitors from all over the U.S. the MOORE expo will have what you are looking for and more

New Holland Overland, a Michigan based overlanding and outfitters company Fueled with a passion for adventure, travel, and exploration, we love to share our overlanding passion and products with all those who seek to checkout what Michigan and the Midwest has to offer!

We are Cody and Alex, a husband and wife adventure couple who currently live in Eau Claire, WI We both work full time jobs and try to adventure & explore whenever we have the opportunity,

Orbis Overlanding We are a small startup, based in West Michigan of enthusiasts just like you We care for our neighbors, for our envi-ronment and want to foster a sense of adventure, and respect in our children

TCTeardrops Camping Trailers are custom built by our family for yours On-Road or Off-Road, our teardrops are built to last and manufactured per order, to your specifications

At True North Outpost we strive to offer the safest, highest quality U P outdoor experience without breaking the bank You will get to see, hear & feel Michigan's Upper Peninsula with others that love this place as much as you will.

TRUKD racks are taller, more versatile, and more durable We provide more features, and use higher quality coatings, materials, and hardware A truly tonneaucompatible truck bed rack

XVENTURE is simply the finest product of its type ever to hit the consumer market This is a no compromise must-have piece of equipment for the overlanding offroad professional and enthusiast alike Be part of the legend today

Photo by Shawn Hamachek

Can you tell us a little about yourself and how you became interested in brewing beer? I'm Jason Robinson from Milwaukee, I grew up all over the great lakes and the mid east coast I have lived in Copper Harbor, MI for the past 21 years I started brewing after my sister in law bought my wife and I a homebrew kit in the early 2000s

What inspired you to open Brickside Brewery in Copper Harbor, MI, and what sets your brewery apart from others in the area? Homebrewers dream of opening a brewery, and when my wife Jessica was finishing up nursing school she asked me what I wanted to do I said open a brewery here in Copper Harbor Others in the area um we are one of only a few that does open fermentation, I try to do a variety of styl h l ll Ambers, Browns , IPA, Pa German Wheats, Wits an

How has your experience been with the Keweenaw Overland Adventure Retreat in the past, and why do you choose to support this event? I have limited experience with KOAR itself, last year was my first time in the camping/ vendor area ,and I managed to catch the talk about wilderness emergencies/preparedness Work kept me busy , but hopefully this year I can see more. I support KOAR as this is the kind of event this area deserves. Having fun but not being mindless jackasses tearing up beaches, littering, and cutting down trees. You all are the ones making it better, respectful minimal impact if any, and appreciating the area for what it is

Can you tell us about y your life? Our skoolie build previously we had a Jeep Liberty CRD 2003 that we took camping a bunch of times with our kids at High Rock, The Mouth of the Huron, Pictured Rocks, and a paddling trip on the Middle Branch of the Ontonogan River, and a few other remote National Forest sites in the UP It got totaled in a early spring black ice incident And right about that time was when my wife's family was refreshing a family cottage out in the Georgian Bay, ON So we got a Mazda5 mini van as for the next few years we were doing 14hr drives to go to the cottage Then covid hit

A winter of watching build videos on youtube and in Feb of 2021, we found and bought a 2009 Chevy Express based Bluebird Its a 4+ window shortbus We drove down toMilwaukee and picked it up We planned a trip down to The Crater of Diamonds Park in Arkansas for spring break. We gutted the seats and ripped up the rubber and particle board getting down to the aluminum floor putting down insulation, plywood and a fake wood floor. I installed threes car seats for the family to sit in and a fold up frame for our bed, the kids slept where ever with the three dogs It was a great trip, with plans to improve the bus That summer I removed and sealed up the bus lights / extra wiring, tore out the metal ceiling, and framed in the kitchen area, an improved bed, put in lights and a simple house battery charged off of the alternator and installed multiple cabinets

The next trip was down to the Outer Banks which was great until the way home when we had an electrical issue That got fixed This year before our spring trip I made a bunk bed for our youngest, installed a propane 2 burner stovetop, diesel heater plumbed into our main fuel tank, revised some wiring, and our new 12v small fridge This last trip was down to Kentucky for the Red River Gorge and Mammoth Cave, with a stop over at the Indianapolis Zoo 99% of the way home and our steering box blew and a few glowplugs died. So right now I'm fixing that and making plans for a small bathroom/shower, hitch, and a large greywater tank under the bus. The wife and I want to get a couple of small ds bikes and bring those with us, but thats a few years down the road when the last kid moves out

In your opinion, what makes the Keweenaw Peninsula a unique and special place to visit? The water, the rocks, and the trees The varied biomes, the history, the wildlife. Its rugged and remote, but not that far away. Still no cell signal and we are the farthest from an interstate in the lower 48

How has the pandemic affected your business, and what measures have you taken to adapt to the changing landscape? The pandemic That year sucked Restriced capacity, even with the addition of outside seating, killed us Could not get bottles to fill Distribution ended for us More than that, it killed the nightlife, in 2020 people would come out early and go hide in their rooms and tents, we had to start closing at 9pm Before that we were open to 11 or later in the summer Most of our buisness is now from noon to 530pm, and its dead after that and we close at 9pm The numbers are coming back, slowly, but that odd switch to day drinking has stayed We bought a food truck to supplement our business last year, we saw there were few options in town for a fast grab and go food option So we serve brick oven pizzas, pitas, polish sausage, pretzels and more We are going to be making sodas again that will be on tap

What are your future plans for Brickside Brewery, and how do you see your business evolving in the coming years? the future. want to get a kitchen as the truck is kinda restrictive right now start distilling and offering liquor Maybe move into a larger building( limited options) Start distribution again

Rebel Outdoors was started in 2019 to deliver an experience to the full size rigs in the outdoors community Whether you are inspired to adventure or you ’ re just looking for some entertainment, Rebel Outdoors is here to give you what you need! I bring a unique experience from my military career of being in a CAAT section living, surviving and fighting out of vehicles. The center of operations is the 2021 RAM 2500 cummins Moose build Much of what I do centers around this vehicle platform so it needs to be as rugged as a moose! I share how to videos, gear tutorials, and of course my adventures on different platforms Returning home from active duty I set out to share my experiences and knowledge while exploring my beautiful home state of Michigan and this great country we live in!

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CAMPSITE #40 AT TRAILS END SIGN UP AT CAMP- $20 -CASH ONLY

There is history to discover in the Keweenaw Please use caution while exploring Don’t enter private property. If you ’ re unsure if the property is publicly accessible, contact the MI DNR or the Michigan Nature Association.

You can't miss the Quincy Mine, on US 41 just north of Hancock, MI "The mine was owned by the Quincy Mining Company and operated between 1846 and 1945, although some activities continued through the 1970s The Quincy Mine was known as "Old Reliable," as the Quincy Mine Company paid a dividend to investors every year from 1868 through 1920 The Quincy Mining Company Historic District is a United States National Historic Landmark District; other Quincy Mine properties nearby, including the Quincy Mining Company Stamp Mills, the Quincy Dredge Number Two, and the Quincy Smelter are also historically significant " -Wikipedia

Central Mine located north of U S 41, four miles north of Phoenix This site has restored buildings, a Visitor Center with interpretive exhibits and a self-guided walking tour to introduce you to copper mining and town life The town’s population peaked at 1,200+ in 1887 and dwindled to 100 by 1903 showing how quickly the pendulum of prosperity swung Local Recommendations: Climb to the top of the upper rock pile for a magnificent view of the valley

A sign on US-41, approximately 4 miles north of Delaware, marks the trail road that leads to the once thriving community of Mandan. In 1910 there was a population of 300 with a Keweenaw Central Railroad depot, a post office, general store, physician's office and schoolhouse By 1915 the population fell to 26 but still had the railroad depot and a physician In 1927 the population was 40 and there was a daily bus to Eagle Harbor, Phoenix, and Ahmeek but there were no other business listings

Delaware Ghost Town -remains of this once booming mine town can be seen on the east side of US-41 about 10 miles north of Central. A few old houses remain, one of them bearing a handmade sign advertising rocks Evidence of mining can be seen near the area and the mills were located near Lac La Belle. Settled in 1846, by 1877 the population was 1,150 and was mostly miners They were receiving daily mail, had some form of court system, and a shoemaker By 1893, the population dropped to only 25 people

The Cliff Mine site is located just south of Phoenix, off US-41 on the Cliff Drive The Cliff Mine was 1,080 feet deep and produced 825 tons of copper in 1875 The town was settled around 1844 & its peak population was 700 in 1877

Freda Champion Mill Take the Houghton Canal Road west of Houghton to the Coles Creek Road to the Freda Road, then left to the end This was the home of the Champion Mine mill Freda was also a popular resort destination

Settled in 1910, it had a population of 500 and was located along the Copper Range Railroad It had a congregational church and a stamp mill along with a barber, physician, saloon and hotel. In 1915, a Catholic church was added followed by a movie theatre in 1917

In 1971, the rails of the Copper Range Railroad were removed and the mill that had crushed copper for half a century was shut, leaving Freda a ghost town

Phoenix Ghost Town- Approximately 6 miles north of Mohawk on US-41 Settled in 1845 by the Phoenix Copper Company of Boston, MA, its population had risen to 1,000 by 1877. Phoenix once housed churches, a schoolhouse, post office, saloons, wagon makers and blacksmith shops, grocery stores and hotels

It also had many farmers living in outlying areas. The Bammert Blacksmith Shop and the Phoenix Church have been restored by the Keweenaw County Historical Society

Wyoming- Take the Lac La Belle road off US-41 to the Wyoming sign about 1 5 miles down on the right About a mile down this gravel road is the vacant field where the village of Wyoming once stood Located on the banks of the Montreal River, Wyoming was the site of a stamping mill and the old Wyoming Mine With 4 saloons running wide open the town was the hang-out for miners from the area and became known for miles around as "Hell Town"

It is said that a train carrying a load of about 50, 1927 Chrysler automobiles, wrecked during a snowstorm in a town near Copper Harbor in February Some of these cars that were "confiscated by locals" are said to still be in the area.

Evergreen Cemetery- Just west of Eagle River, the Evergreen Cemetery's picket fences and park-like setting are an invitation to wander through history

Copper Harbor Cemetery is a cemetery located on US 41 west of M-26 in Copper Harbor, Michigan It was listed as a Michigan State Historic Site on January 8, 1981. Burials occurred from 1853 through 1926. Twelve graves are marked with dates prior to 1900

Pine Grove Cemetery

Located in Eagle Harbor, on Pine Street, just east of 7th Street

Cliff Cemetery

There are two Cliff cemeteries, the Catholic cemetery off US-41 and the Protestant cemetery off of Cliff Drive on the far side of the West Branch Eagle River

Like the towns and mines they sprung from, these eternal resting places are being reclaimed by the forests and time. These are places you will not oon forget.

Info provided by Keweenawinfo com, wikipedia & visitkeweenaw

With 4 saloons running wide open the town was the hang-out for miners from the area and became known for miles around as "Hell Town".

RESPONSIBLE NOT BORING

For over 30 years, Tread Lightly! has been promoting responsible recreation through trail clean ups, restoration projects and education, keeping our public lands healthy, accessible and open for all to enjoy.

Whether you are an individual, a club or a business, you can join the Tread Lightly! movement. Do it today!

For more information on the impact we’re having and to join us on this journey, drive on over to www.treadlightly.org.

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#KOAR2023 #KOARCOMMUNITY #KOARTRIBE #MOTOKOAR #KOARUP Give us a follow at @koar.up & @motokoar

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korc coastal cleanup- Saturday, 9/16

Trail riders of KOAR, let's make a splash for a cleaner coast! �� Join us for the KORC Coastal Cleanup during KOAR and give back to the beautiful beaches we'll be riding to. �� Not only will you be helping Mother Nature, but you'll also enjoy a delicious lunch on KORC, plus, exciting prizes await you after the cleanup – it's a winwin! Let's keep our trails and beaches pristine together. See you at the cleanup! ������ #KORCCoastalCleanup

meet at the korc tent at kilpela park in Copper Harbor

9am- sign waiver & location assignment

9am-1 Trail ride & pick up litter & trash 1pm- Trash drop-off, lunch, thank yous & drawings

"Keweenaw Outdoor Recreation Coalition (KORC) brings together individuals, businesses, and outdoor recreation, conservation, and community organizations to secure permanent public access to atrisk land in the Keweenaw... All manner of outdoor enthusiast is involved because we are all concerned with what is at stake: the potential loss or degradation of the vast landscapes found in the heart of the Keweenaw Peninsula. It's not just forestland that could be lost. At risk is our way of life." -KORC

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