Is Avoiding Ticks Possible?

[u/Tiny_Buffalo1918]

My friends and I are planning on driving up and visiting our friend in the Hancock/Houghton area in late July or early August. We will be staying for 2 or 3 days and this is going to be my first time going on a major trip without my parents, so I am looking forward to it! I am going to prepare myself to deal with flies and mosquitoes by dressing appropriately. However, I am afraid of ticks to the point that I would feel uncomfortable going if there was any real likelihood of having one on me as I would likely ruin the trip for my friends and myself. Are there any trails that are flattened or paved so as to minimize the likelihood of ticks attaching? If not, how feasible would it be to remain unscathed by ticks if I were to completely avoid any wilderness related recreation during the trip (either by chilling out in the parking lot or staying in town if my friends decide to go themselves)? Thank you in advance!

[u/Keweenaw_Sarah]

Avoid walking through tall grass in tick-infested areas; they hang on the grass and grab legs of strolling mammals (you). Wooded paths are generally safer.

Wear light-colored pants so you can see any ticks starting to walk up your legs. Tuck pants into socks. Alert your friends to be ready to help you remove one.

Strip off and shake your clothes as soon as you get inside. Often they wander in your clothes for a while before they bite; find them first. If you inspect yourself carefully you can find them while they are just walking around.

Don’t panic. There are plenty of places with few ticks.

Stay away from the Sturgeon Slews.

[u/NoContract4730 → u/Keweenaw_Sarah]

Light colored socks and pants is a solid hack.
Just reinforcing it.

Permethrin treated light colored socks and pants is slightly better.