America’s Most Underrated Thru-hike
The Superior Hiking Trail offers lush lakeside scenery and frequent camps, but mud, ticks, mosquitoes, and prolonged wet feet can make conditions demanding.
- Plan to camp at designated sites; the trail does not allow dispersed camping.
- Filter water from frequent sources, and check yourself for ticks after hiking.
- If your feet stay wet and show signs of trench foot, stop and let them dry rather than pushing on.
The notes cover the route experience and key conditions; the video mainly adds scenery and personal commentary. · Best for: Hikers considering the Superior Hiking Trail or planning a wet, buggy thru-hike.
The creator hikes 230 miles of Minnesota’s 300-mile Superior Hiking Trail over 11 days, describing its camps, water, terrain, wildlife, and weather. After long days in rainy conditions, early signs of trench foot lead him to stop short of the northern terminus.
Starting the trail and dialing in a light setup1:14
- The hike begins north of Duluth, skipping the southern 50 miles, with roughly 200 miles planned over eight days.
- The creator carries a sub-30-liter pack and reports a 10-pound base weight, in addition to about 3 pounds of camera gear.
- The route has frequent water, forest, lakes, and established camps.
Early trail conditions and designated camps4:18
- The trail shifts from a wide dirt road to forest singletrack, with muddy sections and boardwalks.
- Camps are established, often near water, and include features such as latrines.
- The creator filters discolored water and carries only a 700 ml bottle because water is frequent.
Terrain, views, and camping rules13:23
- The trail becomes rougher, with more roots, rocks, and fallen trees.
- Mileage is generally relaxed, around 16–20 miles on several days, with camps selected along the route.
- The creator says hikers must stay at designated campsites rather than disperse camp.
Resupply, wildlife, and increasing mileage34:14
- The hike reaches Silver Bay for a resupply and a zero day during rain.
- The creator reports frequent ticks, muddy trail, and a black bear sighting.
- He later attempts much longer days, including a day of more than 54 miles.
Rain, wet feet, and stopping short53:09
- A long rainy day leaves the creator wet, especially from soaked vegetation along the trail.
- After noticing early signs of trench foot, he stops to dry his feet and reassess.
- He turns around about 19 miles short of the northern terminus, completing 230 of the trail’s 300 miles.
Tools & resources mentioned
- Nashville Cutaway pack — compact pack used for the hike.
- Gossamer Gear Whisperer tent — borrowed shelter used on the trip.
- Therm-a-Rest NeoAir pad — short pad used with clothing to extend coverage.
- Western Mountaineering quilt — part of the creator’s sleep setup.
- Water filter — used to treat water collected along the trail.
- Poncho — worn in rain and used to cover the backpack.
Notes are AI-generated from the video's transcript and may miss nuance.