Canoeing the Mississippi

Episode Number Eight: From Grand Rapids down to Jacobson Campground.

The weather starts to cool down as the river doubles in flow thanks to the Prairie River. I buy a new tent in Grand Rapids due to water leakage issues with my last one.

Episode Number Seven: Grand Rapids

I travel from Schoolcraft state park to the city of Grand Rapids, birthplace of Judy Garland. Minnesota Power and Light provides me with a free portage, while the city treats me to some urban delights and a few days off the river.

Episode Number Six: Crossing Lake Winnebigoshish

I make the long trip around Lake Winnie while discovering that many of the state camp grounds in northern Minnesota have already closed for the season.

Episode Number Five: Lake Bemidji to Cass Lake

I leave the first city on the Mississippi and make my way to Cass Lake. This is the beginning of the lake region where the Mississippi river travels through a series of very large lakes.

Episode Number Four: Bemidji, the first city on the Mississippi river.

I say goodbye to the “wild” portion of the Mississippi river and glide into Bemidji, where kind people, good food, culture and a warm bed await.