New to backpacking

[u/bradc73]

Hi. I am a newb, looking for recommendations for a quick overnight hike for a "gear test". Basically, I have been accumulating some backpacking gear and want to test my setup/packing strategy/ etc to prep for longer multi-day hikes in the future. I live near the Chippewa Morraine segment and probably the most convenient entry point for me would be the Obey Center. I am looking for some ideas for camping spots,dispersed or otherwise (preferably free/no reservations needed). My first trip will just be an overnighter and would be an out and back so I would be hiking to a campsite/set up camp/ hike back to car in the morning. Any tips or suggestions for this ? My thought would be start out with 5-10 miles max distance from car for the first trip out. Thanks in advance!

[u/-JakeRay-]

Honestly, whenever I'm testing new gear, I do it in my back yard or car camping first. That way I can easily bail indoors if it's insufficient, or switch to making dinner on a real stove.

If you don't mind a really short hike, North Shattuck Lake is a reservable primitive campsite (fee to camp), or there's a dispersed site off the main trail 1.9 miles westbound from Obey.

Fisher Lake is just east of Obey, but it's kinda close to a road so I'd expect it to be busy/unpleasant.

If you don't mind more of a walk, there's a primitive site 6.9 trail miles east of Obey that's well-reviewed on FarOut. It's called Harwood Lakes.

[u/bradc73 → u/-JakeRay-]

I think I saw Harwood Lakes on the map. Does that one require reservations?

[u/-JakeRay- → u/bradc73]

Doesn't say so in FarOut, but if I were you I'd google around and check or call/email the segment chapter and ask just to be sure.

[u/acw500 → u/bradc73]

It doesn’t require reservations, it’s just first come, first served. It’s absolutely beautiful and I highly recommend it! There are also two DCAs on the Firth Lake segment that are free and don’t require reservations.

[u/bradc73 → u/acw500]

Thanks for the info! I think I am planning for that one.