The North Country Trail crosses the entire Upper Peninsula — through the Porkies, along Lake Superior, over the Trap Hills, past Pictured Rocks — before it reaches the Mackinac Bridge. Most of it runs through the Hiawatha and Ottawa National Forests, which means one of the best camping arrangements in the eastern U.S.: you can, within reason, sleep almost anywhere.
Where you can camp
On national forest land, dispersed ("primitive") camping is allowed unless posted otherwise. The standard practice: camp at least 200 feet from water and the trail, on a durable surface, no more than 14 days in one spot. Through state forest and park segments you're expected to use designated sites; the Porcupine Mountains and Tahquamenon Falls sections require permits.
Water
The U.P. is wet — lakes, bog-fed creeks, and Lake Superior itself. Dry stretches exist across the sandy pine plains east of Munising, so look at the map and carry extra there. Filter everything; beaver ponds are common and giardia is real.
Resupply
Coming west to east: Ironwood, then a long stretch to Marquette (a genuine trail town — outfitters, groceries, a bus), then Munising, then St. Ignace near the bridge. Plan 4–6 day carries between them.
Bugs and weather
Black flies peak from mid-May into June and are worse than the mosquitoes. A head net weighs nothing. Superior-side weather turns fast and cold any month; a rain shell and a warm layer are not optional even in July.
What to pack
A pack that carries a multi-day load comfortably, a stove (fire restrictions are common in late summer), a quilt or bag for 30–40°F nights, a reliable filter, and a paper map or downloaded track — blazes are good but junctions with logging roads can confuse. Leave No Trace matters more here because so few people are watching: pack out everything, bury cathole waste well away from water.
