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hello stranger midwest adventure

Beginner’s Guide to Ultralight Backpacking (by an outdoor guide!)

Looking to slim down your pack and dive into the world of ultralight backpacking? From weight savings to what gear you actually need, here's a beginner's guide to ultralight backpacking!…

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Best Backpacking Meals (By an outdoor guide!)

Looking for the best backpacking meals on the market? Dehydrated and Freeze-dried meals can be hit or miss. Luckily, I've laid out the best tested and true backpacking meals so…

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Best Backpacking Tents (budget-friendly & ultralight)

Looking for the best backpacking tents on the market? From ultralight to budget-friendly, here's a quick guide to how to chose the best backpacking tent for you, from someone who's…

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  • Potato River Falls near Ashland Wisconsin Northwoods Hiking Trails

    15 Breathtaking Hiking Trails in Wisconsin (With Maps!)

    December 6, 2025
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  • 12 Incredible Things to do Frankfort, Michigan

    November 11, 2025
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  • Where to watch the sunset in Grand Marais ? Head out to artist point. Image of a photographer watching a beautiful red sunset over Lake Superior with the sawtooth mountains outlined in the background

    29 Tips to Start a Travel Blog in 2026 (for Content Creators!)

    November 6, 2025
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  • image of hiking at Overlook Nine in the Sleeping Bear Dunes

    15 Best Things to do Traverse City, Michigan

    November 6, 2025
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  • image of a car camping travel set up in the late autumn woods. A mug sits on a womans lap, a sleeping bag curled at her side with a book on top.

    19 Exciting Gift Ideas for Travelers (Budget & Luxury!)

    October 17, 2025
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  • image of a hiker in canyonlands national park near needles

    39 Gift Ideas for Hikers (by an outdoor guide!)

    October 17, 2025
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  • image of devil's island lighthouse on Lake Superior

    The Ultimate Guide to Lake Superior (By an outdoor guide!)

    October 2, 2025
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  • Sun peaks into snow-covered woods

    What To Wear Winter Hiking (by an outdoor guide!)

    September 25, 2025
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  • Best Women’s Baselayers (by an outdoor guide!)

    September 18, 2025
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  • Image of a hiker in a puffer jacket standing in front of light snow in the woods

    Best Puffer Jackets for Hiking (by an outdoor guide!)

    September 18, 2025
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Newer Posts 1 2 3 4 5 6 … 17 Older Posts

hello stranger // about me

Hi there, and welcome to Hello Stranger. My name is Maddy, and I'm the voice behind the blog. I'm a writer, paddler, photographer, traveller, and freelance editor. I'm committed to exploring the beautiful American Midwest to prove that you can find real adventure anywhere! Toss your email below to keep up with the adventure!

note: this website uses affiliate links! this means if you choose to make a purchase based on recommendation I make a small kickback at no additional cost to you.

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