Blufftop Hike-in Glamping
What is hike-in glamping?
Glamping (Glamorous Camping) is a comfortable way to enjoy accommodations in the outdoors. Aefintyr glamping is more rugged and adventurous than most other glamping spots. We offer guests a hike-in backpacking like experience into the beautiful driftless bluffs of Southeastern Minnesota. The perfect blend of rugged, remote, convenience and comfort for a revitalizing getaway (1460ft hike, 230ft elev gain). Enjoy the hike up to your spacious, private woodland campsite and it will be ready for you! Private firepit w/ cooking grate/skillet, table with 4 chairs, mattresses, pillows, and linens (fitted sheets, pillowcases, sleeping bags and towels) included. Designed people looking for an active, authentic hike-in camping experience with creature comforts provided. Firewood available for purchase on site.
This type of camping is for people who like to exercise and are looking for a natural setting without a lot of people around. Hike-in campsites are secluded and offer an experience the submerses visitors in the natural surroundings. The campsites at Aefintyr were designed around the natural features of the woods and constructed by hand. The removal of trees or significant alterations to the land were avoided whenever possible. Backpacks are commonly used and recommended for transporting supplies and gear.
We offer 3 different structures for glamping, bell tents, Omega tents and outdoor beds.
What should I expect for the hike?
The hike to the campsites is 1/4 mile (about 1500 feet) up Whiskey Hill with an elevation gain of 230 feet. Most of the hike is on an old logging road that is dirt and rock. Once on top of the bluff, there are wide hiking paths and shared areas that are trimmed and maintained. The logging road and trails may become muddy after significant rain. The hike is physically demanding. Please consider your physical condition and health status when deciding whether to stay at a hike-in camp. There is no lighting along the path so if you come after dark bring a headlamp, flashlight and/or lantern.
What amenities are available?
Each campsite includes a private fire pit with cooking grate and skillet, and table with 4 chairs. The blufftop has shared spaces and amenities including 2 covered community area, several sets of tables and chairs, sitting areas with outdoor furniture, community firepit and cooking grate, propane grill with side burner and a cloud/stargazing area. Outhouse with composting toilet within 400 feet of each campsite. At the bottom of the hill near the entrance and cabins there is a small bathhouse with hot showers, flush toilets, drinking water, outlets for charging electronic devices and a wi-fi hotspot.
Here is a complete list of amenities and more pictures.
What should I bring?
Similar to a backpacking trip, consider the weight of what you are bringing. If each person has a backpack, pack light enough that everything can fit between the backpacks.
Everyone should bring the following:
- Clothes for layering, appropriate for the time of year you are visiting
- Wind and waterproof outer layer / poncho
- Shoes / hiking boots that support and protect your feet and resist water
- Headlamp, extra batteries
- Lantern and/or flashlight and extra batteries
- Sunscreen, the higher the spf the better and reef safe if you plan to go in the river
- Bug spray or ThermaCell - the valley is known for a lack of mosquitos, but it is good to be prepared
- Water bottle
- Cellphone / camera / portable power bank
- Personal items such as toiletries and medications
- Food - even if you plan to eat out, at minimum bring some high calorie snacks
- Dishes and eating utensils, camp stove if desired
Aefintyr has the following items available for purchase:
- Firewood
- Trailtopia Adventure Food - Delicious freeze-dried backpacking meals made with premium ingredients, just add water!
- One time use dish, cup and cutlery kits ***COMING SOON***
- Reusable UCO Camp Sporks
What is a "suite" campsite?
A "suite" in the lodging world, is an accommodation with connected rooms under one unit number and is often used to describe a class of accommodations that offer more space than the average. Each suite style campsite is very spacious and offers 3 connected spaces including a dining area with tables and chairs, gathering area with firepit and sleeping area.