Northology Adventures October 2023

CAMP COOKING

Recipes, camp cooking methods and why sharing meal prep is worthwihile

KOAR WRAPUP

A photo recap of the Keweenaw Overland Adventure Retreat

NORTHOLOGY ADVENTURES

FAMILY ADVENTURE

A family that adventures together makes the best memories

OCTOBER 2023

ISSUE 10

VOLUME 4

IN THIS ISSUE

ONWARD TO FALL!

Cool temps and long nights have arrived, as has the fall camping season! The bugs are (almost) gone, the kids are back in school and the cool nights invite you to snuggle in hoodies and sleeping bags

In this issue you will find a recap of KOAR and a Wisconsin Overland event, some camp cooking recipes and gear overview as well as a fun family that thrives on adventuring together

What is next for us? We are headed to Jeep Camp in Pembine and then to Overland the Red in the Red River Gorge in Kentucky this month, and ending it with a cleanup in the Nicolet National Forest. Take a look at our calendar and join us at an event this fall

It's the perfect time to pack up your tent, grab your sleeping bag, and head out into the great outdoors The crisp air and changing leaves create a picturesque setting for any camping adventure Whether you ' re camping in the mountains or by the lake, fall camping offers a unique experience that can't be matched. Just make sure to bring warm clothing and plenty of blankets to stay cozy throughout the night. And don't forget the s ' mores supplies! Fall camping is the ideal time to gather around the campfire with friends and family and indulge in this classic treat So, what are you waiting for? Embrace the change of seasons and plan your fall camping trip today!

SHARE YOUR STORY

Fostering Togetherness

Camping excursions are all about forging connections with friends and family Sharing the responsibility of meal preparation and cooking encourages campers to work together as a team, strengthening the bonds of friendship and camaraderie Whether it's chopping vegetables, stoking the campfire, or setting up a makeshift kitchen, these shared tasks create a sense of togetherness that goes beyond the ordinary Conversations flow as campers collaborate, and stories are swapped as everyone pitches in The act of preparing and enjoying meals becomes a collective experience that deepens the connections forged during the trip.

“

...sharing the responsibilities of cooking and contributing to camp meals can add an extra layer of fun.”

Will made some breakfast egg sandos at Overland Expo Pacific Northwest from ingredients contributed by the hungry campers of the TRUKD and Car To Camp booth

CAMP

nobody likes hangry campers

Above & left: Will assembles the pot luck sandwiches of scrambled eggs, bacon, cheese and avocado on Everything bagels Best breakfast in a long time!

Below: The author contributes fried Spam and Chelsea whips up some pancakes for the Welcome to the Outdoors film crew near Sisters, Oregon.

Culinary Creativity

Preparing meals in a camping setting presents unique challenges that can inspire culinary creativity Campers often find themselves improvising with limited ingredients and equipment, leading to inventive recipes and cooking techniques This experimentation adds an element of excitement to mealtimes, as everyone eagerly anticipates the results of their collective efforts Whether it's a hearty stew simmered over an open flame or a dessert cooked in a Dutch oven, the shared sense of achievement in creating something delicious can be immensely gratifying

Memories Around the Campfire

Some of the most cherished memories from camping trips are often made around the campfire Gathering together to cook and enjoy meals under the open sky creates an intimate and cozy atmosphere As the aroma of food wafts through the campsite and the crackling fire provides both warmth and ambiance, campers share stories, sing songs, and engage in lively conversations These moments become indelible memories that define the camping experience and are recalled with fondness long after the trip ends

In the end, the inclusion of community-contributed and prepared meals in a group camping trip can elevate the adventure from ordinary to extraordinary These shared culinary experiences foster togetherness, stimulate culinary creativity, and create lasting memories around the campfire So, the next time you embark on a camping excursion with friends or family, consider adding a communal cooking element to your itinerary. It's not just about satisfying your hunger; it's about nourishing your soul and forging bonds that will endure far beyond the trip.

Top: Enoch marvels at the size of the ginormous burrito Braxton had assembled compared to his own

Above: Community breakfast hash by the lake

Far left: Patty melts on the grill, enjoyed riverside

Left: Camp dessert in the Dutch Oven

KORC COASTAL CLEANUP

Each autumn for the past few years, the Keweenaw Outdoor Recreation Coalition (KORC) has hosted a coastal cleanup and the Keweenaw Overland Adventure Retreat (KOAR) has answered the call. With attendees willing to come pitch in and give back, KOAR volunteers were joined by members of the overland club being organized at Michigan Tech and other local clubs and concerned citizens to keep the beaches of the Kewenaw clean. Here is the latest report from KORC-

“Thank you to all of the volunteers who showed up on Saturday to help Keep Keweenaw Clean! Our third annual KORC Coastal Clean-Up on Saturday, September 16, 2023 was a great success We will be posting a full recap soon In the meantime, a few Thank You's are in order A big thank you to The Mariner North for supplying the lunch and beverages for the community cookout after the clean-up, and to Roger Perreault for being the grill master

A special thank you to KORC Steering Committee members Mark and Tess Ahlborn for setting up a KORC station at Bete Grise North public beach and supervising the collection of asphalt chunks that will be re-used to help build out the new KORC/CKSC canoe/kayak launch on the Lac La Belle sloughs directly across from the public beach on Keweenaw County Road Commission land

Thanks to all of the Keweenaw Overland Adventure Retreat volunteers who showed up in big numbers to clear out various objects and trash from the woods and roads at the Keweenaw Tip

Thank you to the following clubs and businesses for donating some wonderful volunteer door prizes: CalumetKeweenaw Sportsmen's Club (CKSC), Cross Country Sports, Down Wind Sports, Laughing Loon Gifts, Rhythm Bike & Board Co , The Gas Lite General Store - The Genny, Chris Schmidt (Studio 13), Minnetonka Resort, and the Copper Country Running Company ”

KOAR attendees also raised almost $200 at the Overland Garage Sale and Gear Swap (thanks, host True North Outpost) and Northology Adventures is matching that to make it a $400 gift to KORC from KOAR. Way to go team!

The Coastal Cleanup poster with past KOAR participants

KOAR

KEWEENAW OVERLAND ADVENTURE RETREAT

In September, the Keweenaw Overland Adventure Retreat successfully held its sixth annual event, attracting over 200 vehicle-assisted adventure enthusiasts. The attendees convened at the Trails End Campground basecamp located in the vicinity of Copper Harbor, MI. The weekend was spent traversing rugged two tracks, visiting historical and breathtaking natural landmarks, and engaging in a coastal cleanup initiative alongside a local preservation organization. The event was supported by over two dozen businesses, most of whom traveled to the venue to exhibit their products in the vendor village and offer fantastic prizes to the participants.

PHOTO BY SETH WATERS

THANK YOU TO THER 2023 KOAR SPONSORS, PARTNERS AND EXHIBITORS

PHOTO BY SETH WATERS

“ ... I had the best time meeting new people and seeing old friends at KOAR 2023. Complete strangers showing the newbies like myself, awesome and fun new places to see and explore which makes the overland community so great. Can’t wait to do more exploring! Thanks to everyone who set up the event and making this possible! My heart is full. -Tim M

“KOAR #1 is in the books and we made it home safe. Great event and it was so much fun to meet with everyone in Vendor Village. Thank you to the KOAR team for kindness and a well organized event. See you next year!” -Brady W

PHOTO BY SETH WATERS

PHOTO BY CINDY POPE

“My first KOAR was awesome. Can’t wait to come back next year! Great people, great community, amazing views.” -Emily S

“Thank you for an amazing event! Also… Thank you to Asa as well for an awesome astrophotography lesson. Already looking forward to next year!” -Kelly E.

“Just got back home. I just want to say thank you to Cindy Pope as well as the rest of the KOAR staff and community for putting on an amazing event. This was my first year and it won’t be my last. Hope to be back next year.” -Jared P

“Had a blast at the KOAR Expo in Copper Harbor! Great folks, fun all over the place!” -Susan A

PHOTO BY NATE GOODWIN

PHOTO BY JORDAN SCHUTT

PHOTO BY CINDY POPE

PHOTO BY JEREMY BYINGTON

PHOTO BY CINDY POPE

PHOTO BY KELLY ELIZABETH

PHOTOS BY CINDY POPE

Had such a great time at KOAR 2023 this year. Hope to make it back next year. This was definitely the highlight of the year.-Matt F

“Hillary and I equally had an amazing time and it was super cool to celebrate our 10 year anniversary U.P. there with you guys. Of course a huge thank you to Cindy and all the amazing staff/helpers/volunteers, etc. Amazing vendors and new friends were a bonus. A special shout-out to our guides Owen, Bill, Mitch and I believe Jason as well as everyone in our group who was all amazing, thoughtful, helpful but more so considerate and convoy minded and with great communication. It really made a huge difference in our experience and I appreciate all of you. Till next time . ” -Justin R

PHOTOS BY CINDY POPE

PHOTOS BY CINDY POPE

PHOTOS BY CHRISTNA GOODWIN

“One Human Band had a blast! Thanks for having me perform! I loved checking out all the rigs and going on so many cool adventures while we were there! My dog, Bruce had fun too;) Thanks for listening to the new songs from the album just released this week;)”- Bryan Drewyor

PHOTOS BY CINDY POPE

PHOTO BY TODD MOWRER

PHOTO BY SETH WATERS

KOAR

OFFICIAL KOAR-9S

At the Keweenaw Overland Adventure Retreat, we not only appreciate dogs for their companionship, but also for their ability to be great adventure partners For this year ’ s KOAR-9 program, Nate and Christina Goodwin of the GoGoGoodwins taught us some valuable tips on pet wilderness safety and first aid It's important to be prepared for any situation when you're out in the wilderness, and having your furry friend with you means taking extra precautions Nate and Christina shared their knowledge with us, so we can keep our dogs safe and healthy while exploring the great outdoors They also shared some creative ideas on how to make the journey more enjoyable for our four-legged friends Thank you friends of KOAR!

PHOTO BY CHRISTINA GOODWIN

Thank you to everyone for stopping by the KOAR-9 booth and saying hi. I loved seeing all your furry friends and hearing all your amazing stories. I can't wait to do it again next year. -Christina G

Arthur was so tired from this weekend and slept the whole way home yesterday. Thank you all for letting him socialize with your pups! -Tim M

PHOTO BY SETH WATERS

PHOTO BY CINDY POPE

PHOTO BY JEREMY BYINGTON

KOAR

MOTOKOAR

A cool thing about overlanding is the variety of vehicles you can overland in KOAR has always had a few hearty souls come on or with motorbikes and so #motokoar was born We are grateful to Christopher Offenwanger, one of the KOAR founders, for his love of moto and the KOAR community This year, Christopher, Nate Goodwin, Todd Mowrer, Carol Mowrer, Chris Bacarella, John Dierzen, Caleb Direzen, Kelly Elizabeth and Ben Wicklund participated and despite the rain (and a report of someone taking a spill in a green puddle) a great time was had by all Chris handed out fun #motokoar mini license plates for participants and the memories of riding the trails together will last a lifetime

PHOTO BY CHRISTOPHER OFFENWANGER

Myself and John had a killer time at our first KOAR. MotoKOAR was an absolute blast, thanks everyone for a great weekend can’t wait to come back. -Caleb D.

Sunday of KOAR is the saddest day! We hope everyone had a great time and we wish you safe travels home! -Jill C

PHOTO BY CHRISTOPHER OFFENWANGER

PHOTO FROM KELLY ELIZABETH

PHOTO BY CALEB DIERZEN

PHOTO BY PAUL SAULNIER

PHOTO BY CINDY POPE

KOAR

The seaplane tours were a highlight of the event, providing stunning views of the Keweenaw Peninsula from above. We soared over the crystal-clear waters of Lake Superior and marveled at the natural beauty of the region, with its dense forests, rolling hills, and rocky shorelines. We are so grateful for this partnership during the past two years with Isle Royale Seaplanes. Our pilot, Tomas, has inspired confidence and politely laughed at all of our nervous jokes (fun fact: overlanders who haven’t showered in a few days smell slightly less offensive than Isle Royale campers who haven’t showered in a week.) Put this on your list for your KOAR adventures next year!

“If you are passing on the seaplane tour, you are doing yourself an injustice. Book it next year and you won’t regret it. Not normally my thing but I went on a whim and it was a highlight.” -

Joseph C.

“What a great event! KOAR was a blast and the people were amazing! My only regret is I didn’t get contact info for the cool people I met. Hope to see all of you next year!” -Tony

M.

R E D R IV E R G O R G E

Hollerwood Park Tours

Sam Justice will be guiding wild and mild tours of Hollerwood Offroad Park. Spend the day with Sam for those special places and the knowledge that you are in good hands!

Trail Rides

Group up with friends or hop on a ride with a local.

Activity discounts

We secured discounts for group hikes, climbing, rappelling and via feratta with local outfitters

Benefit Raffles

We will again be donating proceeds from the raffle to the

KOAR

SHOOTING THE KEWEENAW NIGHT SKIES

Autumn comes and the campfire gets lit earlier. Settling into your chair, you notice the stars above seem so much clearer in the crisp fall darkness. September brings the increased chance for Aurora as the earth spins towards the autumn equinox and the Milky Way neatly splits the sky overhead. After the rain at KOAR 2022, we felt especially blessed with clear skies and a new moon on the 14th. KOAR veteran Asa Meadows again hosted a clinic on shooting the night sky and facilitated a session on top of Brockway Mountain. In the next few pages you can read about the clinic and see shots from Asa and a few others in attendance at KOAR 2023.

PHOTO BY ASA MEADOWS

ASTROPHOTOGRAPHY CLINIC RECAP

What a great weekend for some nightscapes and astrophotography Last year it rained for all of KOAR minus a few hours on Saturday This year was the opposite Next month’s edition I’ll have more of a write up

The clinic was a little wet under the canopy, but a few KOAR’ers braved the wind and rain. Thanks for coming out and dealing with my technical difficulties. I really wanted to show how to use the PhotoPills app to plan shots, but the screen mirroring failure really threw me off my plans.

Thanks to Mike, Don, John, Patrice, Caleb, Emily, Helen, Owen, Bill, June, Alex, Katie and my buddy Dan from Maryland for joining me at the Clinic For those who came up to the top of Brockway Mountain for the Saturday night Milky way shoot, I hope you all got some great shots

Please post them in the KOAR FB group and tag me I can’t wait to see them! Don and Katie already shared some. Special thanks to Don for giving me a ride up there and Caleb for helping others set up their cameras too. This year was the most people that have ever come up with me.

The past couple years have been tough for me, filing for a divorce, it being finalized, and adjusting to a new life It’s been hard to get out and back doing things I used to enjoy I haven’t contributed to the magazine in a while, and I really enjoyed sharing the experience with those who came out

Here are some of my shots from up there, as well as some Aurora Magic. For those that might not know, I rented a professional full frame Nikon Zii with some really fast lenses to compare to my consumer grade 8 year old Nikon D5300 with kit lenses See if you can tell which camera took which photos This was an experiment to see if you really need a fancy camera to get cool shots Yes, the fast lenses I had made it a little easier to get, but see if you can guess which is which I’ll do a poll next month and post the results

-Asa Lee Meadows

PHOTOS BY ASA MEADOWS

“

...the Aurora Borealis was out... It hung and moved with majesty in folds like an infinite traveler upstage in an infinite theater. In colors of rose and lavender and purple, it moved and pulsed against the night, and the frost-sharpened stars shone through it. What a thing to see at a time when I needed it so badly!”

― John Steinbeck

PHOTOS BY SETH WATERS

“Frost is but slender weeks away, Tonight the sunset glow will stay, Swing to the north and burn up higher And Northern Lights wall earth with fire. Nothing is lost yet, nothing broken, And yet the cold blue word is spoken: Say goodbye to the sun. The days of love and leaves are done.”

Robert P. T. Coffin

PHOTO BY SETH WATERS

PHOTO BY CINDY POPE

PHOTO BY MATT FREY

PHOTO BY SETH WATERS

PHOTO BY CINDY POPE

PHOTO BY DON ALLEY

PHOTO BY SETH WATERS

“The icy cold will cut us like a knife in the dark And we may lose everything in the wind But the Northern Lights are burning And they're giving off sparks.”

-Jim Steinman

PHOTO BY KELLY ELIZABETH

PHOTO BY CALEB DIERZEN

K.O.A.R. PARTNERSHIP WITH MIDLANDUSA ENHANCES THE EXPERIENCE FOR ALL

Northology’s Keweenaw Overland Adventure Retreat (K O A R ) is an annual gathering that celebrates the spirit of adventure and exploration Held in the picturesque wilderness of Michigan's Upper Peninsula each year, the event brings together a community of overlanding enthusiasts, campers, and outdoor adventurers eager to forge new connections with like-minded travelers in an unforgettable landscape At the heart of this gathering's success was the seamless coordination and communication facilitated by MidlandUSA handheld radios.

Managing the check-in process and coordinating volunteer team tasks at the Keweenaw Overland Adventure Retreat was a breeze, thanks to the reliable MidlandUSA handheld radios These devices allowed our team to stay connected across the sprawling event grounds, ensuring that attendees were efficiently processed during check-in The real-time communication capabilities of the radios enabled us to address any lastminute logistical changes or unexpected challenges swiftly and effectively With MidlandUSA radios in hand, our volunteers and staff could coordinate check-in, direct campers to their designated spots, and provide essential information to participants, all while maintaining a clear and uninterrupted line of communication

One highlight of this year's K O A R was the generous support of MidlandUSA, who supplied us with a Micromobile radio and swag to give away to our attendees The attendees appreciated the opportunity to win these prizes MidlandUSA's commitment to the overlanding community was evident, and their contributions played a significant role in making the event a resounding success

The Keweenaw Overland Adventure Retreat and Northology owe a debt of gratitude to MidlandUSA for their invaluable support Their handheld radios greatly improved the efficiency of our check-in and volunteer coordination processes, ensuring that the event ran smoothly The MidlandUSA-supplied giveaways added an exciting element, leaving attendees not only with fond memories but also with essential tools for their future adventures We look forward to continuing this partnership with MidlandUSA in the years to come, as we strive to make each Keweenaw Overland Adventure Retreat an even greater success

Watch for more MidlandUSA giveaways at Northology’s Overland the Red basecamp event in October The Northology event staff will again be using MidlandUSA radios to make sure everything runs smoothly

Attendees were excited to win Midland USA radios and swag, the volunteer team appreciated the reliable communication during event management

Photo by 2nd Sandbar Productions

Photo by Matthew Frey

Photo by Cindy Pope

Photo by Cindy Pope

ADVENTURING TOGETHER

A FAMILY FOCUSED ON ADVENTURE. ANYWHERE.

Can you tell us a bit about your family and your interest in overlanding and adventure travel?

We are a family of 3 and our daughter Adalyn just turned 10 years old this past August. We have always enjoyed traveling and visiting new places as well as spending time outdoors hiking, camping and exploring. We started tent camping while Stacie and I were dating and about a year after we got married we bought a large travel trailer. We stayed at a lot of the state parks in Michigan's lower peninsula and a few private and county parks every summer with it. From there we would venture into small towns and find places to hike, bike and kayak. A couple years after Adalyn was born we traded that trailer in for a slightly smaller, but still pretty big trailer with bunk beds. We owned that trailer from 2015 to 2021. The last two years we owned it we had it on a permanent site for the summer at a lake about an hour from home. After that we were getting bored going there every weekend and wanted to find a way to get further more efficiently when we only have 2-4 days at a time to do so.

Around 2019 we started to explore other options to camp and travel while still being comfortable and enjoying it That’s when I first discovered overlanding In 2020 we bought a roof top tent and did trips with it during the off season when we were not using the big trailer We really liked using it but Stacie was not a fan of climbing the ladder to get in and out With more desire to get on the road again, we sold our big trailer and bought an A-liner pop-up that was easy to travel with and did not make a big impact on fuel economy While we really enjoyed this trailer, it was not built to get to a lot of the places we have found and enjoyed camping at, so we sold that and now we have a custom built square drop trailer with a bunk so it can fit the three of us from Dan at Bluewater Overland We picked up that trailer the weekend before Memorial day this year and have used it almost every weekend and then some since It has really made it easy for us to just get up and go without having to spend a lot of time packing and planning which we love

Mike, Stacie & Adalyn attended the Keweenaw Overland Adventure Retreat this past month with their new camper in tow. We took this opportunity to ask them a few questions about their experience at KOAR, their new camper and what they have planned for future adventures.

We asked Mike and Stacie how they get focused on adventure and what they have learned.

What inspired you to attend the KOAR?

Growing up, two of my dad’s sisters lived in the Keweenaw Peninsula with their families and we would spend a week or two up there every summer visiting them. One in Dollar Bay and the other in Tamarac right across from the old stamp mills. I also attended the summer youth programs for photography at Michigan Tech when I was in middle school. I saw a post about the event on Facebook in 2020 and knew it was something I wanted to attend, but it was already sold out that year. The following year I made sure I was ready to buy tickets as soon as they went on sale and we have been to all of them since! It has been great getting back to visiting the Keweenaw on an annual basis and being able to do it with my family and friends is even better!

Can you describe some of the highlights for you all at KOAR?

Adalynn said she really enjoyed the sea plane and seeing the Keweenaw Peninsula from the sky. She also has enjoyed both of the KORC cleanups we have done visiting Fish Cove, Hoar Lake, and High Rock over the last 2 years. Stacie and I really enjoy just meeting new people and making friends with the same interest we have and getting to catch up with friends from the past years. I will also always remember the epic storm we had in the roof top tent the first night of 2021 and assuring Stacie it was safe to be up there when I really had my doubts, but we lived so it’s all good now.

Did attending KOAR help you explore and appreciate the local landscapes and environment of the Keweenaw Peninsula?

Being in groups to explore more remote places with confidence is a great benefit of the retreat. The last few years of exploring off the main roads and into the trails has revealed a lot of places and amazing views I had never seen even though I have been in the area dozens of times growing up. I would highly recommend the sea plane tour to really experience it from an amazing perspective! That is one thing we will never forget and we were so grateful to have the opportunity to do it.

Were there any challenges or unexpected obstacles you encountered during your trip to or at the retreat, and how did you overcome them?

I would have to say the only big challenge we have had so far was the rain in 2021. While we were prepared for rain, it was a lot more than we had expected and presented a lot of challenges when it came to drying things out, staying dry and spending time outside.

At one point we almost left early but after having a nice day for most of Saturday, we were glad we stayed. Other than that we have had pretty good luck on the road so far. Adalyn mentioned that the Jam Pot was closed on Thursday this year so we had to go back Friday as an obstacle we ran into along the way, but we still got our baked goods and sodas!

Did you learn anything during the retreat that you'll carry forward into your future adventures?

Being able to walk around and see different builds and camping setups has really helped us figure out what works best for us and be more efficient in the way we pack, camp, and travel.

Did you participate in any workshops or classes at the retreat? If so, which ones, and what did you gain from them?

Stacie and I have been to several of the classes over the past 3 years. We really enjoy the first aid class and try to attend every year as a refresher, especially when thankfully we haven’t had to use it Another one of our favorites is the astrophotography class Asa puts on. We did not make it up Brockway this year but we did in 2021. We learned a lot about our camera and how to

“Being in groups to explore more remote places with confidence is a great benefit of the retreat.”

get awesome shots of the sky at night and taking photos in low light settings. I learned a lot from the GAIA gps class last year that has made trip planning and finding places to camp easier for me in the app.

Adalyn said she learned a lot from the first aid class like how to treat hypothermia and how to handle being hurt in remote areas. She also went to the GoGoGoodwins traveling with your pup session and learned how to care for your dog in the wilderness and how to do CPR and first aid on your dog.

Can you share any of your personal insights or tips for off-road driving and vehicle maintenance?

I always stay on top of the maintenance schedule on my truck, especially when we have a trip coming up. I’ll usually get an oil change a thousand miles or so early if I know I have a big trip coming up about a week before the trip and have everything checked over. It’s also important to know your vehicle and fix things when they break before it gets worse or fails on a trail. For off road driving, we like to air down our tires and take our time. Since we are also towing a trailer, if we are far from home and break something it wouldn’t be fun trying to figure out how to get the truck, trailer and all of our stuff back home from a trail somewhere.

How would you describe the sense of community and camaraderie among attendees at the retreat? Did you make any new friends or connections?

Adalyn made a couple new friends and met up with some friends from the previous KOAR and other overlanding trips we have been on. Stacie and I have made several friends over the years and met a lot of great people. We always look forward to spending a few days in an amazing place with amazing people at KOAR. We love how everyone looks out for each other and enjoy everyone's company at the event.

Were there any moments of personal growth or self-discovery for you or your family during the retreat?

After I purchased the tickets for the seaplane, Stacie had a growing anxiety that she was not going to be able to get on the plane. I kept reassuring her that it was going to be okay and she would love it if she gave it a chance. She pushed through her anxiety and had a great time! She had a smile on her face the whole time and the first thing she said when we got off the plane was she would definitely do something like that again. I was proud of her for being strong and getting to enjoy it.

What were your strategies for staying organized and selfsufficient while camping and overlanding?

While we still struggle to stay organized with the 3 of us all tending to over pack most of the time, we have gotten much better. I think all of the short weekend trips we did leading up to the retreat really helped us get rid of things we don't need and get better about things having a place instead of everything ending up piled in the truck or foot of the bed. The new trailer also has helped a lot now too since we have a kitchen that is set up when we get to camp. We have built in places for storage and shelves/cabinets for clothes. Eliminating storage boxes for the kitchen and gear and bags for clothing has been great. It also has given us a lot more space in the truck so we don’t feel as cramped while on the road. I also have a large power system in my truck and trailer that my friends joke could power my house for a week or more if needed. So we always have power for anything we need while off the grid.

Did your family have a favorite campsite or location during your trip to or at KOAR? What made it special?

Adalyn’s favorite campsite was our friend Jim’s property because it was by Lake Superior and she got to see Kuma, the cutest dog in the entire world! Stacie and I would agree that the

views and the company at Jim’s property made it our favorite stop on the way to KOAR. A close second would have to be the site we had on lake huron with a view of the Mackinac Bridge at the Straits State Park. Leaving home Tuesday evening after Adalyn got home from school, it took us about 3 hours to get there and we pulled into camp just after dark. Seeing the bridge lit up at night over a super calm Lake Huron and then waking up to the view in the morning before heading out to the Keweenaw was a great way to start our time in the Upper Peninsula.

Can you share any advice or recommendations for other families considering attending the Keweenaw Overland Adventure Retreat in the future?

We would suggest games and activities for the ride if you have a long drive. We always try to make the trip to KOAR part of the adventure. There are so many cool things to see and do across the entire UP if you plan it into your trip and have the time to do it. Another great resource is the KOAR community group on Facebook. You can get a lot of tips and advice as well as answers to any questions you might have about the event or campground there right away. Every year we leave a couple days early and pick a few things along the way to stop and see that we either haven't been to or Adalyn has not been to yet.

Adalyn said it’s beautiful, go and you’ll love it. She also said to get in groups with people familiar with the area. Exploring in groups can really help you see more of what there is to offer if you are not spending as much time figuring out where you're going or how to get there

How has attending this retreat influenced your family's perspective on adventure travel and overlanding as a lifestyle?

It has expanded our bounds and limits on both what we are capable of doing and what our vehicle is capable of. We have learned how far we can go in just a few days and enjoy the entire journey vs just getting to a destination as fast as we can to stay there for a week. KOAR has inspired us to travel more and seek out new and different places and experience new things.

“KOAR has inspired us to travel more and seek out new and different places and experience new things.”

Did you document your experience through photos, videos, or a journal? If so, how do you plan to preserve and share those memories?

We love to take photos and videos of all of our adventures, big or small. We have a YouTube channel, Adventure Anywhere and we are also on Instagram as Adventure.any.where. We have a facebook page, Adventure Anywhere and a group on Facebook where we encourage anyone to join and share their adventures. We also have a ton of cloud storage with thousands of pictures and videos we need to sort through some day.

Lastly, what's next for your family in terms of adventure travel or overlanding plans? Any upcoming destinations or events on your radar?

We are going to do an overland Thanksgiving themed camp out with some friends soon. We usually take a trip to Tahquamenon Falls in February for a weekend to snowshoe and enjoy some hot food and cold beer at the brewery there. Because we both work full time most of our trips are quick weekend trips 2-3 hours from home but we try to get 2-3 bigger trips every year. We are planning on going to KOAR again in 2024 and hoping to check out Overland the Red for the first time next year too! Way down the road we just recently started talking about planning a trip to Alaska when Adalyn graduates from highschool. She said she would really like to do something like that before going off to college.

Check out our new video from our trip to Copper Harbor last week for the Keweenaw Overland Adventure Retreat!(KOAR) We had a great time and hope you enjoy it! Subscribe so you don't miss the second part when we get it finished up!- Adventure Anywhere

TECH OVERLAND

A new genertion of adventure begins

Tech Overland is a new student organization at Michigan Technological University dedicated to overlanding. The club was founded by a group of students who were passionate about overlanding and wanted to share their love of the hobby with others With 75 members and growing, the goal of Tech Overland is to promote and encourage responsible and safe practices among its members and to promote the exploration of the Keweenaw Peninsula. Recently, Tech Overland got to experience KOAR 2023 and is thankful to the Northology team for putting it all together and inviting the organization to attend The organization plans on going back next year and being more involved with the event

Tech Overland is excited to continue growing the everexpanding overlanding experience and share the love with the Michigan Tech community Follow the club on Instagram @Tech Overland to see what they are up to

-Submitted by Tech Overland

RESPONSIBLE NOT BORING

Trustus,,we’vebeendoingitfor30years!

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.

Fostering Togetherness

Dutch oven

Do you think the pioneers had Dutch ovens on the Oregon trail? I like to think so, maybe some research on this would be interesting Dutch ovens are versatile, retain heat well, durable, and easy to clean However, they can be heavy and require maintenance including seasoning and regular upkeep to avoid rust

Advantages:

Versatility: Dutch ovens are all-around champs, suited for baking, frying, roasting, simmering; you name it!

Heat Retention: These bad boys hold onto heat! Perfect for slow cooking and baking.

Durable: Cast iron construction makes them strong and long-lasting.

Easy to Clean: With a little TLC, keeping them clean is a breeze.

Disadvantages:

Weight: These guys can be a tad on the hefty side, so packing them on a hike might give your biceps a run for their money.

Maintenance: They need some love and care, including seasoning and regular upkeep, to avoid rust.

Skottle

Ah, the overlander Instagram staple. Not sure why these have become ubiquitous at parking lot meetups and campsites but owners love them. There are other names for it, the discada, the cowboy wok, and they are all essentially the same thing- a wok-like hardened steel “dish” in which to cook. It does take a while to master the heat zones but depending on what you are preparing, it can all be done on this one aparatus. Skottles are portable, quickly heat up, and have a large cooking surface, making them versatile for stir-frying, sautéing, and various dishes. They are also easy to clean due to their non-stick surfaces. However, skottles have limited cooking styles and can still be bulky compared to other cooking options.

Advantages:

Portability: Skottles are relatively lightweight and easy to transport Quick Cooking: They heat up quickly and provide a large cooking surface

Versatile: Suitable for stir-frying, sautéing, and cooking a variety of dishes

Easy to clean: Many skottles have non-stick surfaces, making cleanup easier.

Disadvantages:

Limited Cooking Styles: Skottles are primarily designed for stir-frying, so they may not be ideal for all types of cooking.

Can be bulky: Some skottles may still be bulkier than other portable cooking options.

Bottom:

Top: Simon’s cornbread in the dutch oven

skottle breakfast scramble by the lake

Flat top

The flat top has a spacious surface allowing you to cook multiple items at once and is versatile for various dishes It is also easy to clean However, it can be heavy and bulky making it difficult to move around, and may not be the best tool for other cooking styles besides griddling

Advantages:

Plenty of Room to Cook: With its spacious surface, the flat top lets you cook multiple items at once

All-Purpose: Whether it's whipping up breakfast, burgers, or anything that requires a flat surface, the flat top is versatile

Super Easy to Clean: Keeping your flat top dazzling is a breeze

Disadvantages:

Heavy Duty: Just like a Dutch oven, the flat top can be a beast to move around due to its weight and bulk

Stuck on the Griddle: While the flat top is perfect for griddling, it may not be the best tool for other cooking styles

Grilling

Grilling offers a unique smoky flavor to food and quick cooking, with portable options for outdoor cooking However, grills are limited to grilling and can be challenging to clean if lacking removable grates

Advantages:

Grilled Flavor: Grilling imparts a unique smoky flavor to food. Quick Cooking: Grills heat up rapidly and are excellent for cooking meats and vegetables.

Portability: Portable grills are available for camping and outdoor cooking.

Disadvantages:

Limited Cooking Styles: Grills are primarily for grilling, and it can be challenging to cook more complex dishes.

Cleanup: Grills can be challenging to clean, especially if they lack removable grates.

Camp stove

Camp stoves offer precise temperature control and are compact, with various fuel options However, they often have a small cooking area and require carrying enough fuel, which may be a problem for longer trips

Advantages:

Precision: Camp stoves offer precise temperature control for cooking a wide range of dishes

Compact: They are generally compact and easy to transport

Fuel Options: Camp stoves can run on various fuels, including propane, butane, and white gas

Disadvantages:

Limited Cooking Surface: Camp stoves often have a relatively small cooking area

Dependency on Fuel: You need to carry enough fuel, which can be an issue for extended trips

The choice of camp cooking method depends on your specific needs, the type of dishes you want to prepare, and your preferences for weight and portability. Many campers and outdoor enthusiasts often use a combination of these methods to cover a wide range of cooking scenarios during their trips. What is your favorite? Join the discussion in our facebook community group!

SEASONS END IN DUST

WISCONSIN OVERLAND

Photo by Shawn Hamachek

WISCONSIN OVERLAND’S WISCONSIN OVERLAND’S NO GUARANTEES NOMAD WEEKEND NO GUARANTEES NOMAD WEEKEND

The Wisconsin Overland's No Guarantees Nomad Weekend was a huge success. The weekend began with a group of enthusiastic drivers meeting up for a trail ride to camp in the Nicolet National Forest. We made our way to the campsite along pavement, then gravel road and then two-track. The supermoon rose as we set up camp and as the night wore on, we were treated to another incredible spectacle - a train of Starlink satellites passing overhead.

The next morning, we rode trails almost all the way to Wolf River Roots to meet up with some latecomers and grab a bite and some coffee. We took off on another trail ride and played the new Radio Chatter game as we drove along dusty forest roads in Oconto and Langlade Counties. It was super fun to ask and answer questions about our rigs, why we travel, and told each other our packing and organization tips. Honestly, I did not think that we would have so much entertainment from this little deck of cards but we really did and recommend you check it out!

Saturday night found us at an all-too-familiar camp for Wisconsin Overland... the front acre at a member’s family cabin. It was nice to have a fire ring, firewood and of course, an outhouse for everyone to use. Call us lazy but it was a good call. We were treated to a nice display of northern lights to round out a weekend of fun and gorgeous skies.

As we packed up our gear and said our goodbyes, we all knew that we had made good memories and new friends. The No Guarantees Nomad Weekend had been an unforgettable adventure, and we couldn't wait to do it again!

Sunset in the Nicolet National forest. We are so fortunate to have 1.5 million acres to explore.

Photo by Cindy Pope

The super (blue) moon in August was a sight to behold in this blowdown area with wide horizons.

Photo by Cindy Pope

“Camping is about re-connecting with our primordial selves. The reason that cooking humble food around a campfire, surrounded by family and friends, feels so good is that for eons that was the definition of life in the tribe. It is woven into our very DNA.”

- Anonymous

Opposite- one of the coolest sightsthe Starlink Satellite train overhead. This page- comfortable camping

Photo by Cindy Pope

Opposite- blue super moon.

This page- Jason’s truck lit by firelight and moonlight.

Photo by Cindy Pope

camp meal hack- bring the leftovers

Using leftovers from home to create yummy and easy meals at camp is a great way to save time and reduce food waste Here are some tips and ideas for making the most of your leftovers while camping:

PlanAhead

Before you head to camp, plan your meals and snacks based on what leftovers you have. This will help you pack the right ingredients and utensils

PrepatHome

Cook extra portions of food that can easily be reheated or repurposed at camp Store leftovers in airtight containers to keep them fresh

ReheatandServe

For some leftovers, simply reheating them over a campfire or on a portable stove can be enough Examples include pasta dishes, stir-fries, or soups

CreateNewDishes

Get creative and transform your leftovers into new dishes Leftovers can be versatile and used to create a wide variety of camp meals Here are ideas for specific leftover foods and how to turn them into tasty camping dishes

Grilled or Roasted Vegetables:

Veggie-packed omelets or scrambled eggs

Vegetarian quesadillas with cheese and tortillas

Vegetable kebabs with fresh skewer ingredients

Cooked Rice or Quinoa:

Fried rice with added protein (e g , scrambled eggs, cooked chicken or tofu)

Rice or grain bowls with fresh veggies, protein, and your favorite sauce or dressing

Stuffed bell peppers or tomatoes with a mixture of grains vegetables, and cheese

Cooked Leftover Pasta:

Pasta salad with fresh veggies and Italian dressing

Cold pasta with pesto sauce and cherry tomatoes

Spaghetti frittata by mixing pasta with beaten eggs cheese, and herbs, then cooking it in a pan

Roasted or Grilled Meats:

Sandwiches or wraps with fresh veggies and condiments

Meat and vegetable skewers for the campfire grill

BBQ meat pizza with a pre-made crust and barbecue sauce

Mashed Potatoes

Potato pancakes or latkes by mixing them with egg and frying them in a pan

Shepherd's pie with leftover mashed potatoes as the topping

Mashed potato and cheese stuffed peppers or mushrooms

Beans and Lentils

Bean burritos or tacos with fresh toppings

Bean and vegetable chili by adding canned tomatoes and spices

Lentil salad with diced veggies olive oil, and lemon juice

Bread and Baked Goods

French toast for breakfast

Croutons for salads or soup

Bread pudding with added milk eggs, and sweeteners, cooked over a campfire

Leftover Pizza

The #1 leftover food we bring along- great as a quick breakfast, lunch or trail snack eat it right out of the ziplock bag to keep your steering wheel clean!

JUSTICEEXPLORES JUSTICEEXPLORES

YourH YourHollerwoodparkollerwoodparkandbeyond andbeyond ttrailguide. railguide.

"Sam and his crew are awsome. they know the trails well and have good eye for what your jeep is capable of "

"Sam was awesome Give us exactly what we wanted and then some HIGHLY RECOMMEND him if you want to explore some awesome trails "

"Sam is amazing! He knows his area, his spotting, is conscientious of what

Wisconsin Coalition of Four Wheel Drives

A non-profit organization of 4WD clubs, groups and enthusiasts in Wisconsin. We are dedicated to promoting 4WD recreation on public & private lands, responsible land usage, safety, education & trail conservation.

CAMP COOKING FAVORITES RETURNS

JetboilPhò

By Jim Roy Offroad garage podcast

Fast trail food doesn’t have to be boring or bland. I recently took a trip to the northern lower. The day plan was simple enough. Peep some leaves, and check on the cabin. I checked the weather and saw a high in the 40’s. So I knew soup was on order.

Ingredients :

1- Phò bowl

1/4# ish shaved ribeye

1- jalapeño

Basil and mint leaves

Lime wedge

Sriracha

How To Make :

Boil your water and add seasoning pack. Add noodles When noodles soften add meat, jalapeño and basil/ mint.

I had grabbed Phò bowls from Costco so I grabbed one and some shaved ribeye from the freezer. When lunchtime came I fired up the Jetboil and boiled the water. I added the noodles, and seasoning pack. I sliced up a jalapeño and added that and the ribeye. I know I forgot the basil, but Rose City didn’t have any. Anyway a great way to warm up and a simple way to dress up a store bought meal There's something special about cooking food outdoors. Maybe it's the fresh air or the sound of the campfire crackling, but it always seems to make the food taste better. At camp, we take food seriously and we know that a good meal can make or break a camping trip. That's why we're always on the lookout for new and exciting recipes to try.

If you have a favorite camping recipe, we want to hear from you! Whether it's a classic like s'mores or a unique twist on a campfire favorite, we're always looking for new ideas to share with our readers. So fire up those camp stoves and send us your best recipes. Who knows, your dish could end up being a new favorite among campers everywhere.

Remember, when it comes to cooking at camp, simplicity is key. You don't need a lot of fancy equipment or exotic ingredients to make a delicious meal. In fact, some of the best camping recipes are the ones that use just a few basic ingredients and rely on the flavors of the outdoors to make them shine

So get creative, have fun, and send us your best camp recipes today! We can't wait to see what delicious dishes you come up with.

We are kicking off the return of this feature by sharing some of our favorites from past issues.

Eggrollinabowl

Submitted by Alex & Cody Eschen Northwoods Overland Adventures

While we can’t take credit for the original recipe egg roll in a bowl is one of our camp and home dinner staples. Super easy, one pot, easily customized, and the left overs the next day maybe be even better than the first night; which makes it a great make ahead recipe then just heat up in a skillet at camp When we make our recipe we use a combo of ground pork and pork sausage because we think it adds flavor but you could use ground turkey, turkey sausage, ground chicken, chicken sausage, or shrimp.

Ingredients :

Slaw mix

1 lb of protein of your choice

3 tablespoons of fresh ground ginger

2 tablespoons of minced garlic

3 tablespoons of soy sauce

1 tablespoon of sesame oil

How To Make :

add your sesame oil to your pan and add your ground pork and sausage and start browning when it’s about halfway cooked add your ginger, garlic and soy sauce

Once your meat is cooked add your slaw mix and stir in cook until the slaw is tender Then all that’s left is to dish up and add your green onion, sesame seeds, and spicy mayo on top.

You can get garlic & fresh ground ginger in squeeze bottles at the storemakes it so much easier!

Optional: roasted sesame seeds for topping, you can also mix equal parts mayonnaise (not miracle whip) and sriracha for spicy mayo topping to add some kick

CampfireChickenQuesadillas

We find that prepping at home and assembling at camp makes for quick and easy meals. Labeled ziplocks help meals get on the table faster.

Ingredients :

Flour tortillas

Cooked chicken, shredded

Shredded cheese

Sliced bell peppers

How To Make :

Sliced onions

Salsa

Guacamole

Lay out a tortilla, and on one half, layer cooked chicken, shredded cheese, sliced bell peppers, onions, and salsa.

Fold the other half of the tortilla over the ingredients to create a half-moon shape.

Cook on a griddle or in a skillet over the campfire until the quesadilla is crispy and the cheese is melted. You could also wrap them in foil and plate on the grate or coals

Serve with sauce, salsa, sour cream and a squirt of lime

GrilledVeggieSkewers

A great side dish or meal for veggie lovers

Ingredients :

Assorted vegetables (peppers, zucchini, mushrooms, etc

Olive oil

Salt and pepper

How To Make :

Skewers or metal skewers

Cooked rice

Cut the assorted vegetables into bite-sized pieces. Thread the vegetables onto skewers, brushing with olive oil and seasoning with salt and pepper.

Grill the skewers over the campfire or on a grill until the vegetables are tender and slightly charred

Serve over cooked rice.

CAMP GEAR PICKS

2 Pack Collapsible Sink

Ok, these are super handy! “Our collapsible sink is in thermoplastic rubber (TPR) construction that is BPA free and dishwasher safe.”

GSI Outdoor, Destination Cooking Set

24-piece camp dining set feeds a family of four with four sets of cutlery, preparation and cooking utensils, condiment containers and cleaning gear.

Silicone Trivet Mats/Pot Holders

Four High-Quality Silicone Pot Holders / Hot Pads / Trivets , 7 x 7 Inch. Can be used as silicone mat, hot pot holders, drying mat, jar opener, spoon rest, trivet, garlic peeler and coaster.

Make your outdoor adventures a delicious affair with Blackstone 22" tabletop griddle. This heavy duty griddle is powered by two "H" style burners that ensure optimal heat distribution and even cooking.

Camp Chef Everest 2x High Pressure Stove

Don't be fooled by its compact size. The 2-burner Camp Chef Everest 2X highpressure stove packs a lot of power under the hood to take your camp kitchen to the next level of outdoor cooking.

Blackstone 22" Tabletop Griddle

GO PREMIUM WITH NORTHOLOGY

TRAILS END CAMPGROUND TRAILS END CAMPGROUND Campsites & Rustic Cabins

October 6-8 Overland Expo East

October 6-8 Wisconsin Jeep Owners Group Jeep Camp

October 12-14 Rendezvous in the Ozarks

October 19-22 Overland the Red

October 28- Tread Lightly! + Quadratec 50 for 50 Cleanup Wisconsin

Please notify us if you want your event listed at info.northologyadventures@gmail.com

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