Backcountry North

Nice selection of items, clothes, and general sportswear. Came for a long weekend and stayed at a…read morehotel with a pool and failed to being a swimsuit. I wouldn't have bothered but a 25 degree time of year with an outdoor pool that's open and heated to 95 degrees couldn't be passed up. Found a swimsuit that wasn't on sale but was cute and perfect for this and other occasions. Found several other items on sale and suffice it to say when I go back to TC, I always come here and always buy something on sale. Considering the swim suit a splurge. If looking for general sportswear outifitting or paddle boards/kayaks, or need in a pinch a swim suit, great store to visit!

I had recently come across the company Floafers and fell in love with them. Had planned on buying…read morethem online until I happened to walk passed Boyne Country Sports and saw them in the window. I was so happy that they had them and I did not have to wait to have them be delivered to my house. They only have three colors in the men's sizes but that was ok. Karen was a great help, she brought me my size in all three of the colors and was very personable. She made me feel very welcomed. They also seemed to have good selection of sports/outside gear but did not have the time too look around much. I Will definitely be coming back next time I'm in town.

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Backcountry North

3.8(16 reviews)

2.7 mi

Something I need real quick? They've got it. Want some inspiration or to see what's new? They've…read moregot that too. All the while, being friendly and sharing stoke and knowledge which sets them apart. This a must have in Traverse City and we're SO lucky to have them. Love shopping local, too! Paddling, climbing, hiking, backpacking, camping! Beach days! I mean come on... They've got you covered and send you out the door with the confidence and wherewithal to be a good steward of the outdoors. BCN - you're a friend AND a scholar...

I really want to love this place, but.... Sizes for those of…read moreus women that are XLs forget about it. I live in TC and really want to support this business. But if you aren't a small or medium, no clothes for you...

Brand new Osprey backpack for our Grand Canyon adventures this summer! Thank you, Backcountry North!

Getting ready for spring! Loving all the new gear this season!

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Sportsman's Warehouse

3.7(3 reviews)

2.6 mi

The service here was amazing friendly staff didn't take long to get a gun would come back to…read morepurchase another gun

As a store it is pretty good as for stock and variety. However the mgr named Emily is a very young…read moreimmature individual with a very fowl mouth. She treats her workers awful and talks down to them like they are dogs. She seems to be on a power struggle and it's obvious that it is her age and insecurity. I know that finding employees is hard as no one is willing to work but she is what I find the bottom of the barrel. On another note the customer service at the front of the store lacks. Mostly on there phones and talking instead of doing there job. I have been there on many occasions and it never is different. I will not return I will be going to Dunham's or Cliff's in Clare. I can't stand by and watch her treat people with this disrespect.

The Northern Angler

4.5(16 reviews)

0.5 mi

Nate and I were walking towards Folgarelli's recently when I noticed this shop next door. We…read morestopped in to look around and maybe get a gift for a friend who loves fly fishing. We were greeted warmly as soon as we walked in, and the employee there was so friendly and helped us look at some great gift options. I don't know anything about fly fishing, so it was great to have some guidance. They have apparel, books and gifts, tons of flies, fly fishing accessories, and more. We ended up getting a hat and some stickers. They seem to like the Grateful Dead as the sticker and hat we got had the lightning skull on them - which is perfect, because our friend is a huge fan. We also got a birthday card, which we were told are designed by the owner's wife. Overall it was a really great experience and I'm so glad we stopped in.

What a disappointment…read more My husband and his brother hired TNA for a belated Father's Day fishing trip with their father, who'd been talking about going on one with his sons for years. This fishing trip was to be the highlight of a joint family vacation, but, by 5pm the night before the big day, it had dissolved into thin air. Why? Because TNA had thought there were only 2 anglers going on the trip, not the 3, which requires 2 boats/guides, not 1. But there'd been 3 anglers going on the trip from the very beginning, so we're not entirely certain how that information didn't get communicated when my husband called to inquire about/book the trip. To be completely fair, I fully believe TNA was going to do everything they could to locate that second boat/guide even mere hours before the trip and during the busy season, but the set up just wasn't what the guys wanted. Maybe being the lone fisherman on the second boat would be nice if one was going with friends, but not the first ever father/sons fishing trip. Is that when they find out who's the favorite son? It just wasn't going to work. And no one is/was advocating to risk everyone's safety by cramming another brother onto the boat, but, had the angler/boat ratio been communicated to my husband when he called, he could've given his dad a nice Yeti cooler instead. He'll get his deposit back, but is still out the money/time spent obtaining all three fishing licenses, as that's not a service TNA provides. It's just a huge disappointment caused by such a simple mistake, thus the 1 star.

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M22

3.9(23 reviews)

•$$$

Fantastic customer service, really nice selection of products, beautiful space to shop. We stop in…read moreevery time we're in town to stock up on M22 gear.

A cool store dedicated to the M 22 highway. It's dedicated to the people that live the outdoor…read morelifestyle, surfing, swimming sitting on the beach biking, all the outdoor activities that happen on the M2 two which goes up the coast all the way along the west side of Northern Michigan. Cool store with lots of trendy, clothes, shoes, hats, souvenirs. For people that might be coming to Northern Michigan for the first time and end up doing some of those activities and driving up the highway, it makes for a pretty cool piece of memorabilia. The workers were friendly and helped us out with some questions, made the process easy. Prices are a little higher, but because it's such a specific thing it doesn't surprise me.

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2nd Level Boardshop

4.0(10 reviews)

Haven't shopped here mostly because the owner makes zero to no effort! I have asked him on insight…read moreregarding skateboard wheels for skates, which honestly could be a big money maker, and he just tells me each time I should get online and look. Also asked him if he had any opinion on inside wheel vs. street wheels. Again, No effort. Shouldn't you know these things? Or at least try. Seems like a local joint within a super niche market, but from the comments below, this owner needs to get smart or lose out on potentially valuable customers.

Awful, tried going to this place to PURCHASE something and could not get in or out without stepping…read moreover folks that were in the $1 sticker bin. Had them all over the floor and they were sprawled out (mind you, this place is small). Seriously? Who runs a business like this? I returned to try to look again the next day, what do you know, the $1 sticker bin made it crazy to even Walk in! Let alone that I had to literally step over two folks to get out. Waste of time...

Store Front. 140 E. Front st.

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Boards!

Army Navy/America's Surplus

3.7(3 reviews)

2.3 mi

Great little shop right there on a main street. The woman working the day I was in there was super…read morehelpful, friendly and I received great customer service. Local store ownership (Veteran if I'm not mistaken) with good selection of items. There were a variety of items including things for your female shoppers as well which was helpful, but also nice. Always a great stop for outdoor gear and some sporting items.

This store is very small and not packed with much more than clothing. There is a glass counter the…read morelength of the sales floor but it's cheap knives and such..I've been spoiled by some surplus places in the Detroit area so this place was disappointing and overpriced. The employee behind the counter was cold. Didn't so much as look up and smile when we walked in or around. Lots of things not priced. Hard to park at... weird entrance door also. Typically I'm able to get some stellar hiking/camping finds at these shops... not here. Not intending to be harsh just truthful.

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Orvis Streamside

4.3(9 reviews)

Thanks to Tyler for taking such intentional time with our family to help us find a great local spot…read moreto do a little fly fishing! Great advice, got a beautiful brook trout!

Tyler was amazing!! Great recommendations and wonderful service! The store had a variety of…read moreeverything we needed for a great price!!

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Don Orr Ski 'n Beach Haus

4.4(7 reviews)

3.1 mi

•$

They are super helpful and knowledgeable. They have an extensive selection of skis. They are very…read morethorough and friendly.

I bought new skis and boots from Don Orr, Chris was wonderful to work with. I explained what I was…read morelooking for, he asked good questions, and directed me to excellent equipment best suited for me. He rocked my ski world with the latest stuff-big compliments to Chris. He was patient and professional. It was an awesome experience and I love my new equipment. Also, the owner Eric was right there giving his input and supporting the process. I highly recommend Don Orr for your ski equipment needs.

Swimwear for women, men and kids

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Captain's Quarters

3.6(13 reviews)

Friendly staff and very helpful. Had my alterations done the next day. Quality is top notch. Well…read moreworth the visit!!

I went here while on vacation in traverse city. I was impressed by the large selection of mens…read moreclothing. they introduced me to a few good brands that I like to wear now. the staff were very kind and helpful as well. I will stop back in next time in town

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22 reviews that are not currently recommended

The reviews below are not factored into the business's overall star rating.

Bradd M.

7 years ago

I went in there just to check out any new gear that may happen to be out. I needed a new sleeping pad because the old one had been repaired one time too many. I picked up a pad to look at and the salesman was there. He asked me what I currently had and what time of year I go backpacking. He made a recommendation based on his personal experience. He is basically the same size I am, over 6 foot, so he understood where I was coming from. I left the store with a new sleeping pad and no remorse about the purchase. The salesman was very informative about what I was looking for and it was great to talk with someone not only experienced in the outdoors but also informative about several areas of gear/experiences. read more

Amanda C.

10 years ago

I have grown up in Traverse City and love to enjoy our wonderful downtown shopping and Backcountry North is one of my favorite downtown shops! Their customer service, quality products and educated staff members puts them on top. I won't lie.. I am not an outdoors guru but I love that whenever I go into Backcountry North I can tell them what I am looking for and they can find exactly what I need along with a lot of awesome outdoor advice! I also love that they have diversified their clothing even more and added so many fun and fashionable pieces for my everyday wear! They are by far the BEST outdoor gear store! read more

Ryan A.

1 year ago

We had a fantastic experience at this store! One of the employees was especially kind to my son--he not only made conversation and made us feel welcome, but even took the time to make my son a bracelet, which was such a thoughtful and memorable gesture. He was incredibly personable, friendly, and easy to talk to. The store itself was very clean and had a great selection of clothing. Another staff member was also engaging and knowledgeable, offering help to other guests in a way that was both professional and approachable. The entire team made the atmosphere feel warm and inviting. read more

Heather J.

8 years ago

I went to backcountry after many attempts at buying hiking boots at other stores with no luck. Will was able to assist me and spent about 20 minutes educating me on the various factors that make a great boot for my purposes and finding something perfect for my foot shape. I was more than satisfied with his vast knowledge, energy, and passion. You can tell he truly loves his job. I never felt pressure to buy but I did because I knew I would be walking out with a perfect boot. Thank you for all of your help! read more

Marie B.

15 years ago

I've been needing a new winter coat for a while now, and headed into BCN a few days ago to pick one up. The staff was friendly and helpful, and I did find a coat I liked, but they didn't have my size. To their credit, they did check all their other stores and offered to order me my size -- not ideal, but also completely understandable for a smaller store. I think they're the only store I've ever seen Canada Goose in (wish I could afford a $700 coat!). read more

Shannon F.

9 years ago

Brendan at the US 31 shop was super helpful. His assistance in finding the right pack for me is much appreciated. I love BackCountry because they'll help me to the best of their ability when they can, but if a repair or request is not in their means, they provide me with sound advice on where else to go, rather than selling me crap I do not need. They are honest and knowledgeable, and a great LOCAL resource I am proud to support. read more

Katie F.

8 years ago

My husband and I stopped in not knowing what we were in for. Not only high quality products, which my husband purchased a flannel he will probably be able to wear for the next 5+ years, but the staff was great. As we are not familiar with the city, Graham pulled a map out for us and circled all of the great places to eat and drink! What a welcoming city. And Thanks Graham! read more

Bethany B.

10 years ago

Top notch customer service! I went in looking for a winter coat and recieved above and beyond help. They really know their gear! I would never have known about some of their brands had it not been for the help. I LOVE my new coat! Its so much better than the one I was going to get - and for the same price! Thank you! Im a new loyal fan! read more

Caitlin P.

10 years ago

Love this store! The staff is super helpful and knowledgeable about any product. Bought my new favorite coat there yesterday. They helped me find a high quality item in my price range. Had all the specs ready and were able to compare to other coats to make sure it would fit my needs. Love it! read more

Scott M.

10 years ago

These guys are great! Just set me up with exactly what I needed I was going to order online. So glad I didn't service and prices are better here. read more

Bernie R.

10 years ago

Great gear and "excellent, professional service. Eric and Sam helped us today and both were extremely helpful and courteous. Bernie and Kathryn read more

Mary R.

7 years ago

Great place for all your Outdoor Needs! Have purchased many items here over the years - very helpful and knowledgable staff and great selections! read more

Kirstin V.

10 years ago

Seriously awesome and knowledgable staff. We're always greeted by every employee in the store and we love being able to bring our dog inside! read more

Nicole S.

8 years ago

Will rocked out helping us find the perfect sleeping bag for my husband!! And it always feels good to shop local!

Jon S.

8 years ago

Adam was very helpful to me. Showed excellent product knowledge and was very friendly and accommodating.

Sheila M.

9 years ago

Thanks George for all your help finding the perfect back pack for me. I can't wait to use it.

Jacob R.

4 years ago

Perfect for high quality hiking/climbing/camping gear! support the local busines!

A R.

7 years ago

Great staff. Helpful. Good selection for adventures in woods and and the city

Robin D.

3 years ago

excellent service, friendly people and a great selection! Check it out!

Ben H.

4 years ago

Always friendly and helpful staff. Will always give them my business.

Backcountry North - outdoorgear - Updated October 2026

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Golden Shoes has a fantastic selection to choose from. When I lived downstate I drove up to TC to…read morebuy all my work shoes at Golden Shoes. Comfort, quality, and fit are so important to have when you are on your feet all day. Staff is always very helpful and knowledgeable as well. Highly recommend!

What? I have never reviewed this store before? What a horrendous lapse in my Yelp life. Every…read moresingle time I come to Traverse, I stop here to see what I can't live without. And every year I leave with another fabulous pair of shoes or boots that I don't know how I lived without. Great brands, great service with staff that know their shoes and boots. I am always satisfied with my purchases at Golden Shoes. It's what shoe buying should be.

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Shout out to Fleet feet for solving a major shoe emergency. I had while visiting Traverse City…read more Needed to get some shoes fast and they hooked me up with a great player of on running shoes. Service was fantastic as was the selection would definitely go back.

Wow I am so incredibly impressed with this store! We came in to inquire about running shoes for my…read morehusband and Allison helped us right away. The process was seamless and it was just the right pace for us. Allison really knows her shoes and I can tell she is passionate about what she does. We truly felt the experience to be fitted for running shoes came with no obligation and we didn't feel pressured. This was a great experience and I will recommend this store to anyone I know in the market for a running shoe. The experience alone was well worth our time and money!

Robert Frost Quality

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•$$$

We stopped in looking for something specific, and the owner instantly knew exactly the right shoe…read morefor us. It was comfortable, the perfect fit, and at a great price. On top of that, his energy was amazing, so welcoming and genuinely helpful. He really went above and beyond to make sure we left happy. Can't say enough good things, highly recommend!

Awesome customer service from Joe Frost! I wear Kuhl pants for work and was looking for a specific…read moretype of pants they make. Three other shops in town, on Front street, carry Kuhl brand clothing and none of them would order the pants for me. I walked in and talked to Joe about ordering them and "No problem!" was the response I got. He ordered them for me on the spot. The next day our flight department, was told to relocate to Florida for the winter a week early. I walked in to talk to Joe about not being in town to pick the pants up and he offered to ship the pants to me, free of charge! Additionally, I spotted a blue Kuhl pullover that I had purchased in grey a few days earlier in another store. I had also asked this store if they could order it for me in blue and got another "No" response so I purchased the grey one. I talked to Joe about this also and he asked if I'd worn it yet which I had not. He said, "Bring it in, I'll exchange yours for a blue one." Again, awesome! Thanks Joe. I won't be shopping for clothes anywhere else in Traverse City next summer.

Orvis Streamside

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Thanks to Tyler for taking such intentional time with our family to help us find a great local spot…read moreto do a little fly fishing! Great advice, got a beautiful brook trout!

Tyler was amazing!! Great recommendations and wonderful service! The store had a variety of…read moreeverything we needed for a great price!!

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They have the best deals here if you're looking for clothing souvenirs. There is so much selection…read moreso be prepared to spend some time looking around. Lots of sales and clearance items in the back of the store. Highly recommend if you want to pick up some T-shirt's and hoodies for your time up north.

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