North Store Follow Me Outfitters

North Store Follow Me Outfitters, located at 18549 Co Rd 407 in Newberry, Michigan, presents itself as much more than a simple roadside stop. While it functions as a convenience store and gas station, its core identity is that of a comprehensive outfitter and a de facto tourism agency for visitors to Michigan's Upper Peninsula. The business is a family-run operation, with owners Larry and Tara Johnson frequently cited by customers as being central to the positive experience. They offer a unique, hands-on approach that sets them apart from larger, more impersonal operations.

A Hub for Outdoor Recreation and Lodging

The primary draw for many visitors is the company's role in facilitating adventure travel. North Store Follow Me Outfitters provides a wide array of rental equipment, positioning itself as a key tour operator for the region's natural attractions. According to customer feedback and the company's own materials, available rentals include:

• Canoes and Kayaks for river trips, particularly on the scenic Two Hearted River.
• Side-by-sides (ATVs/ORVs) for exploring the extensive trail networks in the surrounding state forest lands.
• Snowmobiles for winter excursions, taking advantage of the area's reliable snowfall.

In addition to equipment, the business offers lodging in the form of clean, well-stocked cabins. These cabins provide a complete vacation package for travelers, allowing them to stay on-site and have immediate access to both supplies from the store and rental gear for their activities. Patrons have praised the cabins for their cleanliness and for having all necessary amenities, making for a comfortable base camp after a day of activity.

The Strength of Personalized Service

A recurring theme in customer experiences is the exceptional level of personal service. The owners are described as the "epitome of what the U.P. is all about," lauded for their deep local knowledge and willingness to share it. They are known to offer advice on routes, must-see spots, and activity suggestions, functioning as informal consultants for anyone planning a local excursion. This hands-on involvement is a significant asset; customers feel they are dealing with passionate locals who genuinely care about their experience. Stories of the owners going "above and beyond," such as helping retrieve a lost personal item or loaning out tools for equipment repairs, underscore a commitment to customer care that is difficult to find elsewhere.

Logistical Challenges and Operational Limitations

Despite the overwhelmingly positive feedback regarding service and equipment, potential customers should be aware of certain operational aspects that could impact their plans. One of the most significant points of friction appears in the logistics for river trips, especially for larger groups. One detailed account from a group of 40 canoe renters described the process as "cumbersome" and "confusing."

Coordination for Large Groups

The system required participants to drive their own vehicles to the launch point, after which the drivers had to shuttle the cars to the trip's endpoint and then find a ride back to the start. This process reportedly added two hours of preparation time for what was only a one-hour river trip. For those planning group travel, this is a critical consideration. The lack of a dedicated shuttle service, which some competitors may offer, means that groups must be prepared for self-managed, and potentially time-consuming, transportation logistics. The advice to "pack your patience" is a fair warning for those organizing outings with multiple people and vehicles.

Crucial Scheduling Considerations

Another vital factor for any traveler is the store's limited operating hours. North Store Follow Me Outfitters is closed Monday through Wednesday. This schedule requires careful advance planning for anyone hoping to arrange rentals or purchase supplies for an early-week adventure. A travel itinerary that includes activities on these days would need to be provisioned elsewhere, and rentals would have to be picked up or arranged during the four days the business is open (Thursday-Sunday). This is a significant limitation that could inconvenience travelers not aware of the schedule beforehand.

The Convenience Factor and Other Services

Beyond its outfitting services, the establishment's role as a convenience store and gas station should not be overlooked. For visitors staying in the cabins or anyone passing through, it serves as a vital resource. It provides emergency supplies, food, and fuel in an area where such amenities are sparse, saving a longer drive into town. This multi-purpose nature makes it a practical and strategic stop for anyone involved in outdoor adventure planning.

While listed as a "real_estate_agency" in some business data, this service is not a prominent part of their public-facing operations. Their primary focus remains firmly on lodging, rentals, and retail, which collectively support the local tourism ecosystem. For those seeking a highly personal, owner-involved outfitting experience and who can navigate the logistical and scheduling constraints, North Store Follow Me Outfitters offers a compelling and authentic Upper Peninsula experience.