Exploring Backpacking | Pictured Rocks | Part 1

I went solo backpacking for the first time this fall at Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore in Michigan's Upper Peninsula. What an adventure! Stay tuned for Part 2. Thanks for watching ☺
Explored:
Pictured Lakes National Lakeshore bit.ly/3dvjp8k
October 2021
* Please be advised that some of the links provided are affiliate/referral links and I do receive a small commission/store credit if you make a purchase using those links. This does not cost you any extra when you make a purchase. I very much appreciate your support of this channel in doing so! *
Camping Gear:
Big Agnes Tiger Wall UL 2 Tent bit.ly/3bUKiBR
Big Agnes Insulated Air Core Ultra Sleeping Pad bit.ly/3yUovUa
Nemo Disco 15 Sleeping Bag bit.ly/31FMICy
Sea to Summit Aeros Premium Pillow bit.ly/3dsu5UW
Helinox One Chair bit.ly/3kIRCoX
Goal Zero Crush Light amzn.to/3netWds
Osprey Kyte 56 Pack bit.ly/3lJKTvk
Sea to Summit 13L Dry Sack bit.ly/3CqEjiR
Jetboil Minimo bit.ly/3nnPbcV
Humangear GoBites Uno Spork bit.ly/30u2rUZ
GSI Backpacker Mug bit.ly/3FkwFsc
Katadyn BeFree Collapsible Water Filter Bottle bit.ly/3DAizBH
REI Co-op Nalgene Water Bottle bit.ly/3pEG33P
Mary Janes Farm Outpost Meals bit.ly/3rGxGas
Wear/Hike:
Icebreaker Cool-Lite Merino Sphere T-Shirt bit.ly/2YWAELR
REI Quarter Zip Pullover bit.ly/3AHXKmy
Icebreaker Collingwood Vest bit.ly/3Fk7JRH
Altra Lone Peak All-WTHR Mid Hiking Boots bit.ly/3ItSfNq
Xero Shoes Z-Trail EV Sandals bit.ly/3lHRs1o
Maui Jim Kipahulu Sunglasses amzn.to/3iUweeG
Sawyer Permethrin Pump Spray bit.ly/3DxdCJV
Black Diamond Distance Carbon Z Trekking Poles bit.ly/3mVhIoP
Garmin inReach Mini bit.ly/3oVUWQh
Camera Gear:
iPhone 12 Pro Max amzn.to/2RBFhaj
GoPro Hero9 amzn.to/3ASbfAZ
Smatree Telescoping Selfie Stick amzn.to/3GhZRAu
Music from Epidemic Sound bit.ly/3E3tQeu
Dreamers of the Shore by Volcan Peaks
Hidden Secrets by Melanie Bell
Other Places To Find Me:
Blog - www.withwonder.com (stay tuned)
Instagram - / sharewithwonder
Facebook - / sharewithwonder
Twitter - / sharewithwonder
Pinterest - / sharewithwonder
A portion of the proceeds from this video support:
The Loveland Foundation bit.ly/2XILVMs
The National Bail Out bit.ly/2XHABAi
The Conscious Kid bit.ly/37fCI1a
My Block My City My Hood bit.ly/2BEwe0b
Greater Chicago Food Depository bit.ly/3biPxbY
Together Rising bit.ly/3du7XbO
Comments are closely monitored and subject to approval in an effort to maintain a positive environment. While constructive criticism and suggestions are welcome, negative comments with no purpose other than to spread malice will be deleted.
* Description contains affiliate links. This is not a sponsored video. All opinions are genuinely my own. *

[@drgarimarana]

Do what makes you happy Jen ! I have followed you for a decade now and your videos are the only ones that I look forward to! I know that sometimes you get overwhelmed with the negative comments but there are thousands of people who cherish you ! You have a genuineness which is so rare. Please know that you are such a warm and special person with so much love in your heart and it shows in your videos. I have loved seeing you grow and learn to love yourself and give importance to your own needs as well ! Sending you warm hugs and prayers always ❤️❤️❤️!

[@malabooluvu]

I’m loving the way your navigating through life’s changes. I really admire you and the strength you’ve had through it all. Thank you for taking us along. I really am enjoying your videos.

[@carolrodenbeck2381]

Tears are my superpower!!! I cry when I'm extremely happy, and just knowing someone shows kindness when needed is a wonderful thing. You are far braver than me going alone. I wish you had a hiking/traveling buddy, but you are doing great. So strong!

[@robbd44]

That car is so cool. Your spoon story brought me to tears.

[@WithWonder]

I wish I knew more about that car! I couldn’t find any info on it. Such a random treasure in the middle of the forest!

[@LauraSnead]

These adventures are so fun to watch! And the kindness of strangers...nothing beats that! It was heartwarming to see it and I am sure twice as heartwarming to experience it. Who knows..perhaps they were paying it forward.

[@nicktheveganchick]

I enjoy following along on your journeys. I especially love your attitude on things, "I have no idea what I'm doing, but I'm gonna do it". :) And that's so sweet that the couple gave you their spoon, I can understand getting emotional about it - I feel the same way when people are nice to me.. which says a lot about the world when such a simple thing can move us to tears. Also, totally random thing here but I love your music choices for these videos. :)

[@niqslife]

There have been plenty of times where I felt hopeless or extremely discouraged by a situation that I was in. Words cannot truly describe the amount of relief that I felt when I was helped out of those situations. As with the spork gifting, I would have cried tears of joy too if I thought that I had to eat with a knife then someone gifted me a spork. That in combination with the sincere generosity of that couple warrants your tears. I appreciate you for being transparent.

[@i5263sweets]

I love that you take this journey and girl, your killing it... let me say I wouldn't make with that back pack at 40lbs. Also, I love that generosity is still out there, as well as your thankfulness...Never be embarrassed by tears. I love the green path you walked it's so beautiful this shows us how our creator was thinking about us, when he made all these true wonders the animals don't appreciate it, but we do, and we can tell him so. Thank you for sharing your journey here.

[@SchnauzerMom]

You have so much courage. My anxiety holds me back from so many things I dream of doing and seeing. I live in lower Michigan and have been to the UP only a couple times. It’s absolutely beautiful up there.

[@traceygibson897]

I too will always remember the kindness of strangers. I was heading back to college (in Canada) middle of winter, and my car broke down. Some wonderful people stopped and helped me out. I will never forget it!❤️

[@LotuSymmetry]

Thanks for sharing your journey. Just curious, why don’t you ever take a friend with you on any of these adventures? Or will you in the future? Seems like a fun adventure!

[@LoBytes]

It’s a lot of fun solo backpacking. Source: Myself

[@hollyewc]

I straight up cried over the spoon. Kindness just gets ya. 🥰

[@mystyckall]

Love your videos. Thank you for letting us explore and share these journeys with you.

[@WithWonder]

Thank you for coming along!

[@AJ-jl5eo]

Love seeing the courage you’re growing through all these experiences! Please check the technique you are using when carrying/wearing your backpack, its not like using/wearing a daypack or school backpack which goes on your shoulders and the shoulders do all the work. It’s essentially ALL of the weight of the hiking backpack is to be carried on your hips, the strongest your body - essentially the straps are just there to stop if flopping around or falling off. You will be able find good information on this to help you out. Keep on exploring - its really lovely to see you learning & developing!

[@marmkan]

Amazing, you are so brave and inspiring! The people giving the spoon would have absolutely made me emotional as well. Beautiful video, thank you for sharing and I look forward to your future adventures!

[@erinmarykelly1230]

I love this video! Thank you for sharing ❤️ I love watching all of your traveling, hiking, camping adventures!!!

[@cherylbrash]

I haven’t watched this yet but just want to say I sure admire you flexing your courage muscles !!

[@shotkallah]

I love cheering for your journey! You’re a badass Jen!! I have been watching forever and I feel just so proud of you!

[@trangguilbert7933]

I know why you're crying but why am I crying 😢 great video

[@MadisonHopperCleaning]

Crying with you over the spoon! So powerful. 💗💗

[@koekiemonsterization]

Omg you are so brave! What a courageous thing to do, and it looks absolutely WONDERful. Can't wait for part 2!

[@Nina-dp3gx]

I cannot believe you do this alone ! You are very brave !!!

[@JenniSchaffer]

You are so awesome, Jen. I just she'd a tear with you over the spork! ❤

[@cozynaturegirl]

Backpackers are the nicest people! Glad you are having these experiences.

[@WithWonder]

They sure are! 🥾

[@Samats1]

Omg I was just in pictures rocks in June! Those flies are really no joke and I was not prepared for them. Hope you get to backpack more! I'm planning my first one for Isle Royale, I can use any & all tips!

[@JJWalleye]

As someone who’s done a lot of hiking (some solo but never overnight) through Pictured Rocks…I was so excited to see that you hiked there and filmed it for us! Lake Superior is absolutely magical….something very special about it….as is the UP. I so enjoyed seeing the scenery….hearing those loud Northern Ravens!…..and hearing about your experiences! The biting flies are only bad on the beach in the summer when it’s an offshore breeze…and the humidity levels are higher than normal. Don’t let them discourage you from a return visit. And the best way to see the actual pictured rocks is from the water….next time rent a boat or take the boat cruise. I recommend it late in the day so the sun hits the rocks and really shows their beautiful colors. Looking forward to part two! Thanks, as always, for sharing your inspiring experiences.

[@WithWonder]

I have my sights on a kayaking adventure there in the warmer months

[@lisaboling5336]

You my dear are like a breath of fresh air.

[@lisac9004]

I can't wait for Part 2. You're amazing, Jen!

[@LivingAsVicki]

Like so many people, I feel completely stuck in life with anxiety. Thank you for taking us along on your adventures. We can live the backpacking life through you!!!

[@kathyc3655]

So beautiful!! Looking forward to seeing the rest of your trip. There is still goodness in the world, and I'm the same way while feeling frustrated and overwhelmed, if someone is going to do something unexpected for a stranger. I'd be in tears as well.

[@EricHines]

Thanks for sharing!

[@kimmi071]

Those views are beautiful! It's so inspiring to see you go on this adventure. I can't wait for more videos!

[@kellypruitt2362]

This was so fun to watch, so glad there’s a part 2. Can’t wait to watch it.

[@dawnfox9955]

I 've been watching your videos for a decade(?) and I don't remember ever seeing you camp or hike while you were married. Is this a new interest, or is it something you always enjoyed?

[@lpetmcd]

No lie, I feel like this may have been your most relatable video ever. It felt the most authentic. Way to go, and I’ve cried over silly things that In the moment were the kindest actions.

[@lessthanleigh]

I am absolutely loving these videos from you. Thank you so much for sharing! And for the reminder of good people being out there. 😊

[@sunnyone-z1o]

Thank you for reminding me about gratitude it helps us all ,and I love all your videos

[@icanseewater]

Love these videos and love you! So happy for these special adventures you’ve been pushing yourself to experience. Sending you all the best vibes xx

[@chaank1069]

The scenery is absolutely gorgeous. Loved this.

[@KerriYoung]

Can’t believe you did this alone that is so brave! That lake was absolutely gorgeous what an amazing trip you did just for you!

[@mamofoneteen5178]

You are such a cool mom, lady! Fantastic Jen, why not hey 👋 I’ve watch your channel for so long now and you are evolving. I wish you every happiness 🤗

[@WithWonder]

Thank you! I wish you and yours the same ❤️

[@Scrapsbuttonsnbows]

Oh my goodness we are on the same kind of path exploring backpacking and adventures and what not I am totally rooting for you! And side note I totally loved that you cussed!!! ❤️

[@cynthia6055]

Wow beautiful scenery.......thanks Jen....and I will say you are brave!

[@marykay2484]

I love watching you Jen on your adventures!!!

[@kdrudolph1]

Please don't get offended but when I watch your videos I feel like the music is just a bit too loud.

[@WithWonder]

Thanks for letting me know. I’ll work on volume adjustment for part 2

[@lizholland823]

Bless Jim and Lisa. It truly is the smallest things that can make the most impact and give hope in humanity 💚

[@WithWonder]

Yes! ❤️

[@Whocares302]

I just tested up song with you. You’re inspiring me so much. I’m at a kind of difficult point in my life right now and a hike like this, solo, would change my life. I think I’ll plan something for spring. Thanks for sharing Jen. And Jim and Lisa. ;)

[@Whocares302]

Oh my word!! Proofread!! Lol that was supposed to say that I teared up along with you ;)

[@WithWonder]

I got it 😉

[@deelg8344]

Try the bone conduction headphones. Not bulky and made for athletic purposes. Can hear your surroundings and still enjoy your music and such. It doesn’t cover your ears. Can even use it with phone calls. Check out amazon reviews if interested.👍🏻

[@jeanwoodall1523]

When I go camping I bring my Sigg set of a metal folding knife, spoon, and fork. It came in a case that has straps to hook through something. Others sell sets of wooden or bamboo versions that don't fold.

[@Coffee-Makeup-Stationary]

I was just thinking of what you were like in the very first video of you I ever saw. And while you’re the same person, you’re different. Bloomed. Firmly planted and bloomed and free to grow and wander wherever your heart desires.🌱🌸 I felt the gratitude in the gift that Jim and Lisa shared with you. ❤️ I would have cried, too. Very sweet. Can’t wait for part two.

[@WithWonder]

Thank you for seeing me in this light. In a sea of comments (a lot of which don’t make the cut haha) that try to shame me for seeming “miserable,” “clinically depressed,” or just deplorable in general, your words are very much appreciated ☺️

[@thespongepuppy]

You needed a little kindness. You needed someone to be good to you. It wasn’t about the spoon. Amazing how God sent that kindness in the form of a borrowed utensil.

[@mumudolce]

Wow! Good for you! Have you heard of the Camino de Santiago? It’s a pilgrimage that goes through Spain. I almost feel like you’re training for something like that!

[@tobylegend1188]

Jen, l haven’t even watched the whole video but man you have come a long way from your prada videos and huge hauls. Not that there is anything wrong with that. But these videos seem to give you a sense of accomplishment that you never had before. You should be so proud of yourself. I am loving this direction. I am loving watching you grow and you should be proud of yourself. My only thoughts are stay safe which l know you take steps to do but l still have to say it. ❤️

[@trappertracy6424]

It’s just a spoon but so much more than a spoon…✨

[@rosier1135]

I've been watching your videos almost since the very beginning but haven't seen your videos for about over a year. I love your content. You're very inspirational ☺️ I was just wondering about your babies. Are they living with you?

[@WithWonder]

Yes, I share custody with their father so the kids split their time between our two homes.

[@katiedunk4901]

I’d cry too 😢

[@zandeartistryllc]

Very nice Jen :)! Haven't watched in a while. This Michigander loves that you travelled to the UP - it's soon beautiful up there. I love that the couple gave you a spoon, how absolutely special that is, I cried with you... Those are definitely Michigan birds that are talking at you :)! Inspiring - thank you for sharing your backpacking journey & gear, I need to do this one day...

[@veronicaolowe]

I get touched by little acts of kindness too. I probably would of cried as they handed me the spoon.

[@laurah6381]

Aww Jen- I totally get the emotions of the spoon! In a world that has gone absolutely MAD it’s good to know that nice people do exist! ❤️ Loved this so much! xx Laura from Chicagoland

[@WithWonder]

Cheers to the good people ❤️

[@globetrotting2628]

Thanks for the adventure.

[@WithWonder]

Thanks for coming along!

[@chicmommaplants9692]

when i used to go hiking the leader always stop by water at the end of our hike to help with blood circulation in our legs... i remember it being super cold but felt sooo gooood.

[@WithWonder]

I did put my feet in 🥶

[@katestewart6274]

I'm so proud of you! I've always wanted to go backpacking, but I can't due to my chronic illnesses. My partner goes and I'm always so jealous being left behind.

[@glauren86]

Are you sure this camping outdoorsy thing is for you? You seem so miserable. :(

[@AngieKadow73]

It’s camping…. Who isn’t miserable?

[@rileybooth8087]

Wow, I completely disagree. I think she’s thriving and loving every bit of it. She can detail the harder parts physically and mentally without being miserable in the experience.

[@WithWonder]

Actually I had an awesome time. Definitely a highlight of the year! It was challenging but physically and mentally but oh so beautiful and such a personal triumph for me. I like to share about the ups AND downs of my experience instead of just post the highlight reel.

[@janetlajaunie8634]

You are the second KZbinr today to restore my faith in the human race. Thanks to you and Kara of Kara and Nate and to the people who aided them. Have loved your videos for many years and love seeing you happy.

[@WithWonder]

Three cheers for the good people, small acts of kindness, and restoring faith in humanity ❤️

[@ms.mfersgirl6108]

Hello Jen! I am a long time fan and far away friend. I have never commented, but I want to let you know that you inspire me and that I am cheering you on from afar! You have inspired me to follow my travel dreams despite all my fears and excuses I put up for myself. I have booked my first solo trip! I am a 58 year old, empty nester, divorced woman who is about to start her dream of traveling and I am scared shitless! And I can’t wait! Lots of love to you! Gabriela💕

[@WithWonder]

I am so super excited for you!! You’ve got this ❤️

[@jennyxgirl3]

Beautiful scenery! If you ever get a chance I highly recommend hiking the Superior Hiking Trail in MN. It’s 300 miles long but you can do sections of it. It runs along Lake Superior and the North Shore area to MN. It’s beautiful. Some areas you get a view of the lake, and other areas you get to see the Superior National Forest.

[@WithWonder]

Sounds right up my alley, thanks! 🥾

[@BulldogsAndBooks]

The sound is inconsistent. Are you covering the microphone at times?

[@michelekal8526]

This was fantastic. I am creating a list of places to visit based on your videos.

[@taylorgamache7859]

So beautiful!

[@moose3615]

Wow Jen, this is amazing! I would be scared to be at night there by myself but you are incredible!!!!!!! I am living the backpack life through you :) and that beach was gorgeous

[@rachelpowell3420]

Wanted to share with you that I went on a trail by myself near my local park. It's along water. I took pictures of the trees and the water. I tried hard to take a side selfie....it didn't work out, haha. Have fun on your journey.

[@ellekell9317]

This is the best video you have made in a long time. You seem genuinely happy.

[@WithWonder]

I’m so happy you enjoyed it! I had an amazing time 😁

[@dianepeterson4706]

Your confidence just glows! I totally get the feeling of gratefulness over the spoon. The kindness of simple things. Love the video(s) and am looking forward to more.

[@comptonphoto]

Lol I love swearing Jen. 😆

[@whatgwenloves]

I'm only at the beginning of this video, but I'm so excited to see you're in Michigan!! I'm from the lower peninsula of MI and I haven't been in a few years (covid). It's a beautiful state.

[@xtina1822]

Sorry if this is off topic but would you be able to share a gift guide for kids this holiday season?

[@ScrapnAllie]

I Chica what a blessing that couple was to you so sweet and such meaning ur right the little things 🙂 what a Beautiful park u r at and I’m like Wow!! 40lbs backpack 💪🏼 so proud of u 👍🏼 WTG Chica

[@AndreaBW1024]

You seem genuinely upset that all you see is chipmunks and birds and not bears, despite all the bear signs, bear lock boxes etc. Careful with wanting to see bears, they are very scary in person. I am so glad you are being real and sharing the kindness that was given to you by Jim and Lisa. Can you explain the plastic bead bracelet, is it a good luck item? was it a gift? I am so curious about it. Thanks for continuing to show us all these fun outdoorsy adventures, you are in your element. Your happiness and peace radiates in these videos

[@HJPeet]

I think (hope) she's probably referring to larger animals in the non-dangerous categories like rabbits, foxes, deer... :D

[@WithWonder]

Yes, indeed I was talking more about deer really. I expected to see some in the forest. I never want to run into a bear on the trail 😬

[@lilygurl79]

I know you’re long back from this trip, but to help with pack weight - adjust the straps, it will help balance some of the weight on your hips and not all on your shoulders.

[@meelliemoe]

Jen you are fierce!! So happy to be coming along on these journeys with you. It’s just amazing

[@Imanthepeep]

Jen, I love you, I have been following you for 12 years or so, I lived in michigan, I used to send you Arabic tea to tryout and you send me your beautiful Christmas cards, I know we do not really know each other, but I want you to stop referring to yourself in a negative way, you are a smart, unique and a true genuine person and what you are doing is so wonderful and meaningful, you will do just great! I will finish up my day here in Cairo,Egypt and wait for your video, to enjoy and get inspired ❤ I am doing EBC trek in March and I am learning a lot from you... keep up the good work 👏 Iman

[@WithWonder]

I remember that tea and your kindness! ☕️

[@sonyalindgren8539]

You amaze me with your strength and ability to travel and hike as you do! Thank you for sharing with us.

[@WithWonder]

Thank you for coming along for the journey!

[@kimramsay5877]

Jen you're growth and journey has inspired me to discover who I am outside of mum,wofecwtc, thank you!

[@Jennifernva]

Love your bravery ❤️

[@kristicarey-moore8340]

Hi Jen, I wonder if there’s kind of a device that you can pull your backpack behind you you know like something on like three wheels that you pull that could handle hiking is just an idea I really enjoyed your video that looks like so much fun I hope that my husband and I can go hiking eventually as well.

[@MrsRebW]

Hi! What bracelet are you wearing on day 2, wraps around your wrist a few times?

[@WithWonder]

Those are my prayer beads 📿

[@owlflurry]

I absolutely love the UP! It’s beautiful up there

[@myview6852]

Can you share the knife you are carrying and also, consider adding some model of a Leatherman brand multi tool too! They can come in very handy!

[@kelly4836]

Fun!!

[@ssantorajones]

Love your necklace! Can you share where it is from?

[@WithWonder]

Moon & Rock a few years ago now. They no longer sell their beautiful jewelry and have instead focused their business on their skincare line, which I use and love every day

[@MsKimko32]

I seriously clicked on this as soon as you posted it. 😆 anxious much? 😂. Anyway, love seeing the continued camaraderie amongst the camping world. I watch other people as they camp and meeting people along the way. Nice video, Jen. I was wondering from the start how that backpack was gonna do for you. It woulda broke my back. Also, are those mala beads on your wrist if so can you point me to a place to buy some without the tassel. I only ever see them with it.💕

[@WithWonder]

Yes, my prayer beads. I bought them from The Beautiful Nomad. I lost the charm long ago. I’m about the attempt restringing them myself and possibly making more.

[@Joy-zf6cs]

I’m loving yet another of your amazing adventures. Thank you Jen ❤️

[@WithWonder]

Thank you for coming along ☺️

[@Bk-uz3pk]

Great video Jen. Loving and admiring your journey. When you mentioned the weight of the backpack, my back started to ache 😂. I might rename your channel With Wonder to Wonder Woman ☺️. Can’t wait for next video. Jim and Lisa thank you 🍴

[@WithWonder]

🦹‍♀️

[@robbd44]

I appreciate this video. I would love to do something like this but I am fearful. Love the video and love that you share with us.

[@WithWonder]

You never know if you don’t try ❤️

[@katy8605]

Can you talk a bit about how well the clothes you brought worked for you and which garments did you bring extras to change?

[@WithWonder]

The clothes were great. I think I’ve listed most everything in the description. I packed a couple extra layers that I didn’t end up wearing. I was expecting the weather to be in the 40s & 50s, low humidity, but it was “unseasonably warm” with super high humidity for that time of year so I didn’t end up needing them. You don’t need a lot to swap when camping/backpacking in my experience. Just undies and socks.

[@walterrussell7584]

Hey great job I live in Michigan also if you are ever looking for for some one to go hiking with I live by Manistee I do the Manistee river loop

[@itssssandraa]

The f bomb 😂

[@WithWonder]

😏

[@rachelvanveldhuizen1945]

Good for you!!!!! That’s awesome!

[@roadrunnerand1]

Hi Jen. Wish I could go with ya! But u would've left me in the dust. LoL I diffinately don't have ur marathon legs. Heehee💕😁

[@katiedunk4901]

Love the shout out to Mary Janes Farm! Her farm and company is based out of my hometown of Moscow ID! She’s absolute the Best!!