Backpack on North Manitou Island

Take the ~2hr ferry via Manitou Island Transit from Leland, MI. You obtain the camping and park permit from the transit company during the summer season. The ferry usually stops once a day (but varies on popular weekends) during the warm months. While it's a small island, you will rarely see other backpackers. The main hiking trail on the island is a flat, figure eight type loop (~16mi) with many "camps" along the way. Hike out to the west side of the island to enjoy the expansive beach and set up camp on the bluffs in time for sunset at Fredrickson or Johnson Place. Also, for those who just can't leave it behind, most of the island has cell service.

If you're deciding between North and South Manitou Island, both offer backpacking and hiking, but North has less foot traffic (South has day trips), more miles of trail, and an inland lake. South has a great view of the Francisco Morazan shipwreck. More info here.