Lake Superior from the Superior Hiking Trail
Tomorrow I am headed north to the north shore of Lake Superior. I am planning to hike four days along the Superior Hiking trail, starting just south of Gooseberry Falls. My goal is to enjoy the beauty of God’s creation while also testing my equipment and endurance for a longer hike this August. If all goes well, I should cover between 50 and 70 miles of the trail.
Always a good idea to erect the tent at home before one tries it in the wild.
Recently I have been reading about ultra-light backpackers who are scrupulous in reducing the weight of their packs to less than 10 pounds (without food or water). That low weight includes the pack, shelter, sleeping gear, cook gear and clothing. I am not there yet. I did get a new a new tent that weighs less than three pounds. After my first round of weight cutting, I have reduced my pack’s weight from 30 to 20 pounds.
Ultra-light hikers stress that backpacking is mostly about hiking, not camping. The joy is the journey, not the destination, and to enjoy the journey, one needs a lighter pack. As I have worked to lighten the load I am reminded of Jesus words.
Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light (Matt. 11:28-30).
I realize that backpacking is not everyone’s way of “resting” in Christ, but it is a way to restore my soul. I’ll let you know how it went when I return.
Lord Jesus, teach us how to rest in you.
Pastor John Keller 
Blessings on your journey, John. Have a wonderful trip! I look forward to reading your reflections later.
Hope you have a great experience – restful and travelling light. Glad you aren’t carrying a pack nicknamed ‘Monster’.
I’ve hiked that section of the trail. The falls are going to be awesome with all the spring snowmelt! Enjoy.
I have been a hiker all my life but these days I venture mainly on bicycle – going on exctended rides of up to three months so weight saving is a must. It is true that it is about the journey – I liken it to being on a Pilgrimage – although the destination is the goal, it does not bring as much value to our lives as to what we encoutered along the way. The Bible is really a story of Jesus on ‘The Way’ to His goal – Jerusalem – all the teachings were given along the way!
Oooo – have a great trip!!
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Enjoy your trip John,
I’m hoping to hike/backpack a northern section of the SHT later this summer as well. I’ll have to talk to you before then to get some tips.
Enjoy God’s creation and your time away!
Scott Nelson