MANISTEE RIVER VALLEY HIKE

SATURDAY, AUGUST 22

In 2026 for our elite hikers this hike is mandatory to prove their fitness level.  The Enchantments Traverse is challenging for overnight hikers.  As a day-hike it's a difficult endurance challenge requiring a fitness and endurance similar to the requirements to Rim to Rim hike the Grand Canyon.  

This Test Hike is designed to weed out the unprepared or not quite ready.  This hike is tough but will reward you with an experience you will long remember.  The North Country Trail portion is a deep forest trek on the NW side of the Manistee River.  It takes you to the Little Mac Bridge.  You'll return on the Manistee River Trail which offers beautiful views on the SE side of the meandering Manistee River.  

[AllTrails describing 19.8 of the 26.4 mile Test Hike course]

[The button below will give you a detailed look at The Enchantments Traverse and you will know why it's important to prove to yourself and to Coach that you are ready for this very challenging but uniquely rewarding experience.]

The Enchantments Traverse is our extreme hike in Washington for 2026.

For extreme hike candidates this Test Hike is mandatory - no exceptions.  

For all others this is optional and a wonderful destination hike to enjoy minus the long distance challenge.  

A range of distance options give moderate hikers a great experience hiking along the meandering Manistee River.  The 26.4 mileTest Hike is an *HOF simulation for the Enchantments Traverse candidates to demonstrate their fitness level and endurance.  A successful completion of this Test Hike gives each hiker the confidence to take on the Enchantments day hike and provides Coach Gunn with performance numbers to help determine whether or not you can safely take on this backcountry wilderness day hike.

[*HOF (Hours On Feet) is an endurance measure created by Coach Ron Gunn that's proven useful as an equivalent check of preparedness.]

PLEASE REGISTER now to participate in this hike.  Guests welcome.

The Manistee Test Hike is not an organized trip.  You must travel on your own and make your own hotel reservations.  Email Thom - We need to hear from everyone planning to attend so Coach Gunn can make the correct preparations.  Whether you camp, stay at another hotel or drive back Saturday night it is helpful that we know your plans.  Thank you.

Comfort Inn in Cadillac has given us a $169.00 rate (plus 11% tax) for 22 rooms. [Use the link above to book online, click ADD ROOM] OR call 231-779-2900 to make your reservation now - "Gunn Hikers."   All rooms have 2 Queen size beds.  Call for King bed for small up charge - not an option online.  

This is a great carpool opportunity.  If you have room in your car or would like a ride, and if you have a room and want a roommate or want to be a roommate, contact Thom.  He will assist connecting drivers with riders and room holders with roommates.  Thom@CairnStoneTours.com 269.462.0683 

REGISTER NOW (Email or Online Form)

TRAINING PARTNERS:

1)   Include your distance:  26.4, 16.6, 11.2 or 5.6 miles

2)  Include your men's T-Shirt size for custom tech shirt.

3)  Include requests for carpooling or roommate help.

GUESTS are welcome.  Anyone not a 2026 Training Partner can hike as a guest for a small fee.

1)  Email Thom to register:  Include name, cell number, distance and T-Shirt size (if you want a shirt).

2)  Guests pay $15 fee for T-Shirt.  (Check payable to "Cairn Stone Tours."  Give it to Coach Gunn at trailhead.)

3)  HOTEL BLOCK:  Only Training Partners may take one of our block rooms at Comfort Inn.  Guests should not take one of our block rooms, but can be a roommate of an eligible Training Partner.

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