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Michigan Bike Trip Itinerary
Caring ... Honesty ... Respect ... Responsibility


Trip Departure Information
Trippers typically take the bus to camp, departing from the McGaw YMCA in Evanston. Bus transportation is assumed, and included in the camp fee. Parents also have the option to drop their tripper directly at Camp Echo on that same day. Upon arrival at camp, trippers meet the Health Officer for a health check and complete a swim evaluation. The remainder of the group's time at camp is spent teambuilding, preparing for trip departure, and practicing skills necessary for the trip.

We begin all our summer trips at Echo for several reasons. We have a fully-stocked Trip Center at Echo, with all the food and group gear for each trip; campers and their guides participate in the process of "packing out" for the trip. Most trip groups will use one of Echo's high or low challenge courses to build a cohesive spirit and to come together as a working team. There's also the fun of simply being at Echo, the enjoyment of an opening campfire, the camaraderie of spending some time with the other teen groups, and the excitement of bidding farewell to all the younger campers.

Trip Itinerary
Day 1
    Trippers arrive at Camp Echo and are greeted by their trip guides. During the afternoon, they complete camp check-in procedures including meeting with the Health Officer and a swim evaluation. Once check-ins are complete, the group will get to know one another and begin building a cohesive team through initiatives. Trippers may also go on a short training ride to try out their bikes.

Day 2
    Trippers continue their in-camp training and preparations throughout the day. They will pack out all necessary gear and food as well as review the maps and itinerary for the trip. The group will also go on a training ride, prepare their bikes, and continue teambuilding activities.

Day 3
    After a filling breakfast at Camp Echo and some last minute preparations, the group begins departs for the drive North to Wilderness State Park. Upon arrival, trippers and the van drivers enjoy a lovely meal and get a good night's rest in preparation for their first full day of riding.

Day 4
    Trippers and the van drivers wake up early for a filling breakfast and any final bike tuning that is needed. The drivers take the van back to Camp Echo, and the trippers and guides embark on their biking adventure. The group carries tents, clothing, and cooking supplies in bike panniers and stops for food at local grocery stores along the route.

On the first full day of riding, trippers travel approximately 50 miles to their campsite at Petosky State Park. They enjoy a beautiful ride along the shores of Lake Michigan and bike through shady tunnels of trees.


Day 5
    The group travels from Petosky State Park to Island State Park (about 20 miles) for a fairly easy day of riding. Frequent parks and quaint towns provide ideal resting stops for everyone to grab a quick snack or drink of water.

Day 6
    Today's ride is a long journey (about 60 miles) from Fisherman's Island to Traverse City State Park. With two full days of biking experience, trippers use their skills to ride over steep hills and are rewarded with long sections of shady road. Upon arrival at Traverse City State Park, everyone is ready for a hearty dinner and a full night's rest.

Day 7
    After a challenging day of riding yesterday, tripppers are rewarded with a short journey (20 miles) to Interlochen. They easily traverse the distance and are able to relax at one of the many resting areas along the way or the campsite.

Day 8
    Trippers ride from Interlochen to Sleeping Bear Dunes (40 miles). Although the distance is short, the hilly roads provide an ample challenge for the day.

Day 9
    Layover day! The group enjoys a full day of much deserved rest and relaxation. Trippers can go for a swim in Lake Michigan, nap on the beach, and enjoy each other's company.

Day 10
    The set of well-rested trippers depart on a 60-mile ride to Orchard Beach State Park. Their legs are ready to conquer the frequent hills and dips on their route as they enjoy the beautiful forestry and views along the way.

Day 11
    The group sets out on their final full day of biking and travels from Orchard Beach State Park to Silver Lake (60 miles). Upon arrival at the campsite, they celebrate with a great dinner and share stories of the challenges and triumphs they encountered along the way.

Day 12
    Trippers embark on the 50-mile ride from Silver Lake to Camp Echo, where an entire camp eagerly awaits their arrival. Upon entry into camp, the group can quickly cool off with a refreshing dip in the lake and reslish in their accomplisments throughout the evening.

Day 13
    Trippers pack up, say goodbye to their counselors, and take the bus to the McGaw YMCA in Evanston, IL.


Trip itineraries are subject to change.

Trip Return Information
Trippers will take the bus from Camp Echo to the McGaw YMCA in Evanston. Bus depature information and progress is posted and updated every 30 minutes on the Camp Echo website. In order to meet your child on time and avoid waiting at the McGaw YMCA for the busses to arrive, please check the website frequently.


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This page was last updated
Mon Mar 10 06:33:31 2008.

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