Frequently Asked Questions and Packing List


Frequently Asked Questions

Who can participate?

  • The NWI Camino is open to any young adult (out of high school, 18 years or older). Families are welcome to walk together. 


Is it ok if I can just do one day?

  • Yes! The NWI Camino is what you need it to be. You can walk one or both days. 


Do I need to bring anything?

  • Pilgrims are invited to bring water bottles and any other items for their personal health such as snacks or blister care.
  • Wear comfortable walking shoes and a second pair, like flip flops, that can get wet.
  • Wear sunscreen!
  • A full packing list can be found in the guidebook.


Can I bring my kids? 

  • Yes! Kids of young adults are welcome. While day one of the trail might not be good for strollers (it's very rocky and unpaved), the second day is mostly paved and flat. Bathrooms are available along the trail every 1.5-2.5 miles. We have marked out on the map where bathrooms will be available. 


How much does it cost? 

  • The NWI Camino is presented absolutely free for young adults and lunch and dinner will be provided on Saturday. On Sunday, there are coffee shops along the way to Michigan City if you would like to stop for food. 

    To help defray the costs associated with this event (food, printing, signage, shuttling), pilgrims are asked to prayerfully consider making a freewill offering. 

What can I do to prepare for the pilgrimage?

  • Start by taking mini-walks to condition yourself. 
  • Spiritually prepare yourself by thinking of a prayer intention to pray along the way. You can also find reflections in our "Walk and Reflect Guides."


How do I get back to my car?

  • Cars can be parked and left at St. Patrick Church in Chesterton (starting point) or Marquette High School (Ending point).
  • The NWI Camino is a one way trip, so all pilgrims will have to make arrangements to get themselves— and their gear—from Chesterton, Beverly Shores, and/or Michigan City during the weekend. The most ideal and fastest option is to have a friend or loved one drop you off in Chesterton and pick you up in Michigan City. If this is not an option, we will make shuttle rides available back to Michigan City and Chesterton on Sunday afternoon. Pilgrims should note that because of a very limited number of volunteer drivers, the wait time in Michigan City may be prolonged. Pilgrims may also choose to utilize smartphone rideshare services Uber and Lyft, both of which operate in NW Indiana. 
  • More information can be found in the NWI Camino Guide Book.


Guide to Packing

One of the most important but often overlooked part of the pilgrimage is packing. Often when we travel, we overpack. We think about what we might need for “just in case” scenarios. On the pilgrim road, we recommend packing for what you really need. It may be bare bones, but your back will thank you. We’re providing you a suggested packing list. Add to it if you want, leave others out if you wish. Just remember, that anything you bring, you will be responsible for carrying.

 

Packing List

  • Backpack: Your backpack is your most important piece of gear (aside from your shoes). Make sure the backpack is comfortable. If you already have a backpack that you think you want to use, pack it, and then take a walk. See if it fits well on your back. We suggest bringing a backpack with hip straps, to help distribute the weight of the bag.

  • Shoes to hike with: Train wearing the same shoes you are going to wear. The NWI Camino is mostly flat and paved. Training in your shoes will help break them in and will lessen your chances of getting blisters. Don’t wear a new pair of shoes. You will get blisters.

  • Shoes that can get wet: One issue that organizers found is that there might be some areas along the way that might be covered in water. To help keep your regular walking shoes dry, it is recommended that pilgrims bring a pair of water shoes, flip flops, or other shoes they are ok getting wet for those portions. Bring a small towel to dry your feet after you have cleared the water and put on your regular walking shoes.

  • Shoes to relax in: bring a change of shoes to wear when you get to Our Lady of Grace. Sandals will help air your feet and give your shoes a rest, but wear whatever you feel comfortable in.

  • Clothing:Make sure that you are comfortable walking long distance in your choice of clothing. Bring a change of clothes for Saturday evening and Sunday if you are staying overnight. Two Shirts: The one that you are going to wear on Saturday and one that you can wear at night and Sunday. Please note that Mass is available on Saturday at 6:00 pm. Do not feel obligated to dress up (it will just make your pack heavier). In fact, your simple, modest dress will allow others to see you as a pilgrim.
    • Shorts or pants: Like with shirts, one pair to hike in and one to relax/sleep in. Make sure that you are comfortable walking long distance in your choice of shorts or pants.
    • Hiking socks: Love your feet! Wear socks made for long distance hiking. Most sporting goods stores stock hiking socks. Merino wool socks are recommended by experienced hikers. While not absolutely necessary, it is recommended that you have a spare pair in case your first pair of shoes gets wet.
    • A change of underwear
    • Beach gear: We will have time to walk to Lake Michigan. Bring a beach towel, swimsuit, and other gear you might need for the beach. 

  • Basic toiletries: Unless you are staying off site, we won’t have access to a shower. We will have washcloths freshen up in the bathroom. Toothbrush, toothpaste, face products, deodorant, a little bit of soap to freshen up in the bathroom, and a washcloth. You do you. To pack light, use smaller containers. You can get a lot of product into small containers.

  • Basic first aid kit/blister bandages:  If you are not used to walking long distances in one day, you might need blister bandages. At the first signs of irritation, stop what you are doing and tend to your feet. Also, you might not end up using them, but your fellow pilgrim may need one.

  • Weather-related items: Bring a hat and/or wear sunglasses. There is one long stretch of the path that has no shady areas. If you see that it might rain, bring a poncho (that’s big enough to go over your pack to keep it dry too).

  • Flashlight/head light: to see at night!

  • Tent/sleeping bag: Whatever your personal preference. Please note, we will be providing transportation for tents and sleeping bags. Unless you want to carry them, your tent and sleeping bags will be transported to the campsite for you.

  • Water Bottle

  • Extra food:  if you would like it. 

  • Sunscreen, hat, sunglasses: Even on cloudy days, you can still get a sun burn.

  • Phone, charger, external battery.

  • Walking Sticks: optional. It depends on if you want to use them.


 

Learn how to pack efficiently.  When you pack, think of your bag as having zones:

  • Light gear (coats, sleeping bags, less frequently accessed supplies) should go on the bottom.
  • Heavy gear should be packed in the middle of bag, closest to your back.
  • Lighter gear (light weight clothing) should go in the middle of the bag, farthest from your back. 
  • Medium gear, or things that you might use more frequently, should go on top so you have easy access to it.