Devil’s Lake Campout

Devil’s Lake, WI – October.  Tim and Eileen in their new RV camper, the Trail Cruiser.  Rich and Lori in their new camper, the Sun Ray.

Devil’s Lake was interesting this time of year.  The trees were at the start of full fall color, the weather was cool – cold at night. Our campers were both purchased this summer and were little used, so we’re still trying to figure them out.

This park has four major campground areas, three of them were closed for the season. When we arrived on a Thursday, our area was sparsely populated.  It was quite a surprise to see how it totally filled up by Friday night.  Several boy scout troops helped in that regard.  Lots and lots of tents.  Lots and lots of very large RV trailers.  A few vintage campers, one from the 30’s.  A very old Airstream.   It’s fascinating to see what people show up in.

We hung out in our camper both nights, cooked up great meals, laughed it up and played cards.  The Trail Cruiser hi-fi system made its debut to great fanfare.

On Thursday we hiked the western trail that took us high over the lake.   The sun was out, the weather great.

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The second day was much colder and cloudy. We drove to Parfrey’s Glen and hiked back in about as far as we could comfortably go.  It’s spectacular in there.  The hike starts out on the flat, along a small stream.  The trail wanders along on both sides of the stream, which required multiple crossings.  Apparently there used to be more bridges and wooden structures to make things easier, but a major flood washed them away and they weren’t replaced.  Now it’s every hiker for himself.   The trail enters a slot canyon and it’s hand over hand for a bit before it ends abruptly.

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Spildie visit Sep2013

The Hippy came for the better part of a week.  He had “time on his hands”, what with his recent and total retirement from the Federal service.  These shots were at the Capitol Beer Garten, and the one that moved into Ale Asylum’s old location – can’t remember their name.

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Upper Penninsual Cabin and Pictured Rocks

Dave and Nancy, Paula and Roger, Tim, Eileen and Madeline all made the drive to a rustic cabin located on North Manistique Lake (aka Round Lake) in the UP. The highlight of the trip was a boat tour along the Pictured Rocks National Lake Shore of Lake Superior.   For most of the week the weather was cool and cloudy.  We considered ourselves lucky to arrive at the shore to very calm conditions, warm weather,  and partial sun.

We were surprised to pass so many beautiful beaches on the 20 mile run, all full of people, and many with clusters of kayaks radiating out from them.

Here are my favorite photos from the tour:

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Gluttons for punishment can view an additional set of photos here to give you yet more of a look at this area.

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Here are some photos around the cabin and North Manistique Lake:

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