Searching for a truly unusual natural landmark? Try a visit to Devil’s Kettle Falls in Judge C.R. Magney State Park. As natural landmarks go, Devil’s Kettle is a bit of an enigma. Located on the North Shore of Lake Superior in the great state of Minnesota, Devil’s Kettle Falls can be found on the Brule River. At the cusp of the falls, the natural rock formations divide the waterfall into two separate streams. The right section of the river falls as you would expect, to a pool below as the river continues downstream. The left half of the river plunges into an enormous cauldron known as Devil’s Kettle. Most interestingly, no one has been able to identify the destination of the water entering Devil’s Kettle. Scientists have attempted to throw colored dyes and floating items into this magnificent natural wonder; however, there efforts have been futile. The ultimate destination of the water from Devil’s Kettle remains a mystery to this day. Many scientists speculate that the water makes its way via underground passages out to the great Lake Superior. Others believe the water rejoins the Brule River downstream from the falls before it empties out into Lake Superior. The mysterious Devil’s Kettle Falls is thrilling, beautiful and definitely worth the trip if you find yourself travelling in or around northern Minnesota.

Originally home to the Ojibwa Indian tribe, French and European settlers moved into the region in the 19th century in search of wild game, furs and timber. Logging practices in the late 19th and early 20th centuries depleted much of the forest resources, particularly as the lumber harvesting practices left the land vulnerable to devastating forest fires. As the forest regenerated, wealthy entrepreneurs moved in, establishing the Brule Valley as an exclusive resort area. The resulting Naniboujou Club was completed in July of 1929. The Club was extravagant with a 150 room lodge, cabins, bathhouse, a golf course and a swimming pool. In October of that same year though, tragedy struck in the form of the infamous Stock Market crash. The Great Depression reared its ugly head and the luxurious resort quickly closed after going through a series of owners.

In the early 1930′s, the state of Minnesota purchased the Naniboujou Club for the purposes of establishing a camp for victims of the Great Depression. The camp was to provide work opportunities for homeless men in exchange for wages, shelter, food, water and medical care. Barracks were constructed to lodge the men, along with bathhouses, a bakery, a dining hall, three workshops, a warehouse and recreation halls. The camp was ultimately named the Grover Conzet Camp and was managed by the Works Progress Administration, or WPA. The residents of this camp worked at planting trees and other forestry services, such as constructing the trail and staircases leading to Devil’s Kettle Falls itself. The camp was rendered obsolete in 1938 after the residents of the camp staged a coup of sorts, rebelling against the WPA administrators.

After a series of years serving as a camp for Obijwa youth, the Minnesota State Legislature officially deemed the area as the Brule River State Park in 1957, thereby setting aside the area for future generations to enjoy. The park was thereafter renamed in 1962 after the recently deceased Clarence Magney, a famous Minnesota judge who had spent much of his life passionately advocating for the establishment of state parks along the North Shore of Lake Superior.

The Judge C.R. Magney State Park is home to an extensive array of wildlife. White pine trees were particularly prevalent before deforestation occurred from logging in the 19th and early 20th centuries. Today, aspen, birch, white spruce, northern white cedars and sugar maples can be found alongside the white pines. Throughout the forest, sharp-eyed visitors may be lucky enough to spot one of the larger mammal inhabitants of the park such as moose, elk, black bears, red foxes, deer and even wolves. Other smaller species include hawks, great horned owls, chipmunks, red squirrels, rainbow trout, salmon and snowshoe hares.

When seeking Devil’s Kettle Falls, the trail will take you on an approximately one mile journey. Along the way, you will run into the magnificent Upper Falls of the Brule River. Devil’s Falls and the Judge C.R. Magney State Park are located only twenty-five miles from the United States/Canadian border. Other waterfalls in the nearby vicinity of the North Shore include the High Falls of the Baptism River, Two Step Falls, Gooseberry Falls, the Temperance River Gorge and the High Falls of the Pigeon River. The Judge C.R. Magney State Park is also home to some of the northernmost sections of the Superior Hiking Trail, a trail extending from Duluth all the way to the Canadian border.

There are camping opportunities in the park itself with shower and bathroom facilities. For those preferring plusher accommodations, the Naniboujou Club Lodge continues to offer private hotel rooms for weary travelers. There are numerous hiking trails throughout the park; however, be forewarned that there is a substantial elevation change of 1000 feet through the park, making traversing the area a strenuous activity. Hiking is popular here, as is fishing. The Brule River is stocked annually with rainbow trout and is also home to various salmon species. For truly adventurous kayaking experts, kayaking along the Brule River is sure to be a thrill of a lifetime. Only truly experienced kayakers should attempt this activity, however, due to the speed of the rapids, the numerous rock obstacles and the need to stop at various points to portage around waterfalls and other impassable areas.

With its fascinating history and the mysteries of Devil’s Kettle Falls, the Judge C.R. Magney State Park is truly an extraordinary destination for vacationing families. Whether you are seeking a great day trip from your northern Minnesota vacation home or the perfect camping destination, a trip to Devil’s Kettle Falls is sure to be a memorable one indeed.

Walk across the Mississippi River! Recently, a friend of mine on Facebook put a post up soliciting suggestions for a great family vacation destination; something unique and different for her family to experience without subjecting themselves to a typical crowded and kitschy amusement park destination. Immediately, a journey to Itasca State Park jumped to my mind. A mere hour and a half west of Grand Rapids, Minnesota, Itasca State Park is a gem of a vacation destination. Known primarily as the location of the headwaters, or origin, of the Mississippi River, Itasca State Park comes complete with lakes, streams, hiking trails, historical sites. With all it has to offer, Itasca State Park offers something to suit the tastes of every traveler venturing to explore its magnificent terrain.

From the heart of North Central Minnesota, the mighty Mississippi begins its lengthy journey to the Gulf of Mexico. Heading downstream more than 2,500 miles, the source of the magnificent body of water has often been disputed. In 1832, Henry Rowe Schoolcraft enlisted the guidance of an Ojibwa guide named Ozaawindib, or Yellow Head, to help him locate the source waters. Although others have claimed the source is actually Elk Lake, located to the north of Itasca, history and science has continued to support Schoolcraft’s claim that Lake Itasca is the true origin of this vitally important waterway extending through the heart of the United States. Here at the source, visitors can playfully cross the Mississippi with the assistance of stepping-stones at the outlet of Lake Itasca. Be sure to take time to visit the Mary Gibbs Mississippi Headwaters Center where visitors can learn about the structure and flow of the Mississippi and the discovery of the headwaters by Schoolcraft many years ago.

In the late 1800′s, an anthropologist and land surveyor by the name of Jacob V. Brower came to the region to help settle the dispute of whether Schoolcraft was accurate when naming Itasca as the headwaters of the mighty Mississippi. Viewing the severe impact logging had on this region, Brower became a tireless advocate for preservation, leading the state legislature to take action and officially establish Itasca State Park in 1891. Itasca State Park is, in fact, the oldest state park in Minnesota.

There are over 100 lakes located with the perimeters of Itasca State Park, including, Lake Ozawindib, Elk Lake, Lake Itasca and Mary Lake to name a few of the largest. Carved by glaciers millions of years ago, the park is dotted with lakes, ponds and bogs. The landscape is commonly referred to as “knob and kettle”; the knobs comprised of piles of debris left in the glacier’s wake while the kettles are the depressions carved by the ice at it flowed across the land, leaving behind a varied and dynamic surface.

In order to preserve a swath of pure Minnesotan wilderness, an approximate 2000 acre sanctuary on the western side of the park was set aside as the Itasca Wilderness Sanctuary Scientific and Natural Area. Here red and white pines trees tower about the forest floor, as if silently standing watch over the park. This is a virginal, untouched forest area, allowing visitors to witness the majesty of these forests as the must have been before the lumberjacks of the 19th and early 20th century depleted many of the natural resources of this land.

Visitors can start from the Headwaters Center and travel south along the Wilderness Drive along the edge of the Itasca Wilderness Sanctuary Scientific and Natural Area. Be sure to notice Minnesota’s largest red pine located at the southern tip of Lake Itasca. Close to this magnificent red pine tree lies the fascinating Eagle Nesting area, offering a bird’s eye view, no pun intended, of a nesting spot of the magnificent Bald Eagle. Over 8,000 years ago, Native Americans roamed these lands in search of food. The Bison Kill Area, just to the south of the Wilderness Sanctuary Scientific and Natural Area, explores the history of the first residents of the Itasca region and their hunting practices. Several miles to the east of the Eagle Nesting Areas and the Bison Kill Area, lies the Observation Tower offering magnificent views of much of the surrounding terrain. If you happen to be entering the park from the south, plan to start your visit at the Jacob V. Brower Visitor Center for an overview of the parks features, history and landscape.

Just to the north of the Jacob V. Brower Visitor Center, lies the magnificent Preacher’s Grove. The site of a 1920′s preacher revival, this stand of fire-scarred pines towers over the surrounding landscape, offering an extraordinary place of peace and quiet reflection. Just to the north of Preacher’s Grove is the Peacepipe Vista, offering expansive views of sunsets over the park. Here lies the homestead site of Peter and Mary Turnbull, the first European settlers in the Itasca region. The Pioneer Cemetery, Nicollet Cabin and the Old Timer’s Cabin round out the essential historical experience here in Itasca State Park.

While exploring the park independently can be a magnificent adventure, many prefer to have a guide assist them on their journey. Companies such as Coborn’s Lake Itasca Tours, Inc., offer boat tours of Lake Itasca and allow passengers to glimpse loons, ospreys and other wildlife along the lake shore. Notably, this two hour tour follows along the approximate route Ozawindib took Schoolcraft in 1832.

When looking for a place to stay at Itasca State Park, there are a multitude of possibilities. For rustic, yet comfortable accommodations, many visitors opt for one of the lodges located in the park. Built in 1905, the Douglas Lodge offers cozy, albeit basic accommodations for weary travelers. There is an on-site restaurant, as well. Built from stone and logs, the Forest Inn is notable for its history and longevity here in the Northwoods of Minnesota. Other accommodations choices include the Itasca Suites and the Bear Paw Campground which offers several cabins. For those who prefer to fend for themselves, there are over 200 tent and RV campsites located throughout the park. Other options include renting a luxurious vacation home in one of the towns or cities in the vicinity of Itasca State Park.

Located on 32,700 acres, Itasca State Park offers year round recreational opportunities. Fishing is permitted in the park with magnificent opportunities to find walleye, bass and perch, to name but a few of the species inhabiting these waters. Bike paths and hiking trails wind their way through the wilderness. Don’t worry though. There is no need to bring your own bicycle; just rent one from one of the local establishments. Spend a day relaxing out on a boat or canoe. No matter how you choose to spend your time here in Itasca State Park, you are sure to experience a renewed sense of peace and tranquility here.

So, the next time you, like my friend, are seeking a vacationing respite far from the pressures of ordinary, consider the magnificent Itasca State Park. The cool lakes and pristine old world pine forests beckon with the promise of a different type of vacation. A true oasis in the midst of our overly-commercialized world. Come see Itasca State Park and take a vacation from the ordinary here in north central Minnesota.

For many retirees and families, the lure of the open road beckons, promising freedom and adventure. Recreational vehicles, or RVs, are a terrific way to explore the United States with all of the comforts of home right at your fingertips. While comfort is one of the primary reasons to travel in an RV, it is far from the only reason to do so. Travelling in a RV allows you to escape from the pain and agony of battling through airport security only to arrive at a hotel that has lost your reservation. Not only is it easier, RV travelling can also be very cost effective. RVs allow you to prepare much of your own food in a kitchenette or over a campfire built adjacent to your campsite, allowing healthier and more economical fare. While there will always be the expense of gas, a night at a campground is frequently much less expensive than a night at any relatively decent motel.

Before planning your trip, it is important to realize that recreational vehicles should not be confused with mobile homes. Mobile homes are pre-fabricated homes that are transported by huge tractor trailers. Once a mobile home arrives at the destination designated by its owner, the mobile home is pretty much permanently installed in said location. Motor homes, on the other hand, are a type of recreational vehicle, which allow travelers to transport the comforts of home with them along their journey.

While many people might associate RV travelling with the retirement lifestyle, there are countless opportunities for younger families to experience the ease and relaxation of travelling in an RV. Many first-time RV travelers opt to rent a RV rather than making the huge commitment to purchase such a vehicle. This allows them to try out the lifestyle to see if it suits their travelling needs. Families will be delighted that RVs eliminate the need for frequent stops on the road. Restrooms, kitchen facilities and comfortable quarters make for a much more pleasant driving experience than the typical family road trip. Families can bring along their family pets, eliminating the need to pay for expensive kennel fees while they are away from home. Many campgrounds feature amenities such as pools, game rooms, laundry facilities, miniature golf, supply shops, fire pits and social events for campers. Plus, RV travelling can be economically advantageous for families searching for affordable dining and lodging options after exhausting their budgets on expensive admission prices to museums and other amusement venues. Sportsmen such as fishermen, hunters and mountain bikers may prefer to travel by RV as they can seek out campgrounds with easy access to lakes, forests and trails. No matter what type of party you may be travelling with, RVing may be the perfect way to meet your travelling needs.

Recreational vehicles are remarkably environmentally friendly. Nay-sayers will denounce recreational vehicles, saying that they are harmful sources of pollution. While travelling via RV fifty years ago might have been less environmentally friendly than other forms of transportation, today’s recreational vehicles offer plenty of opportunities to practice “green” RVing. Low flow toilets and showers typically use much less water than public facilities at a tent campground or hotel might. Wastewater from recreational vehicles is typically held in a holding tank until it can be properly disposed of at a sanitation dump site, whereas tent campers typically dump their wastewater into streams or onto the ground of a campsite when they leave. Clothes can be air-dried after laundry day, disposable plates and cups can be avoided in favor of more sustainable dishware. Furthermore, cooking facilities in RVs typically cause much less pollution than constructing a campfire in the woods. ‘Green’ RVing is both an economical and an environmentally friendly mode of travel.

If you’ve tried out travelling by recreational vehicle and want to do more, buying a motor home may be the right choice for you. Recreational vehicle prices typically range from $50,000 for a decent used model on up to multi-million dollar varieties. The size of your travelling party, the amenities desired and your budget will help dictate what RV is the right choice for you. Remember rent first to see how your family takes to this new form of travel before jumping into the deep end with both feet.

While travelling via RV is a great way to explore the country as a whole, there is perhaps no better spot to hit the open road than the Northwoods of Minnesota and Wisconsin. With countless opportunities for outdoor recreation, thousands of acres of untouched wilderness, a plethora of gorgeous lakes and streams, great RV campgrounds with virtually any amenity your heart might desire, exploring the Northwoods in your RV may be just what the doctor ordered for your next getaway excursion. Don’t wait. Plot your course through the Northwoods and experience the joy of recreational vehicling!

A Sunday afternoon picnic; a classic experience for the American family. If you and your family are looking for an easy, inexpensive way to share a meal and enjoy the great outdoors, picnicking may be just the ticket. Although the beauty of picnicking is in its sheer simplicity, there are ways to plan to ensure that your next picnic goes smoothly for all involved. Below are a few tips for organizing the perfect picnic outing.

1. Location, location, location: Picking a great spot for your picnic is important. National and state parks are excellent choices for picnics. Local parks with playgrounds are great choices when you are travelling with small children.

2. Consider the seating options: If you plan to go to a park or other natural area, what sort of seating arrangements are there? If there are picnic tables, bringing along some form of a tablecloth with ensure you have a clean surface on which to eat. If there are no tables, a thick blanket to rest on the ground is essential. If it has recently rained, be sure to have a water resistant plastic tarp beneath your blanket, or pick a spot where there are tables available.

3. Avoid the bugs: Bugs can quickly spoil a picnic. Spray yourself with Off™ or some other form of insect repellent before going out for your picnic. Bring along a citronella candle to ward off mosquitoes later in the day, or if there is any standing water near your picnic site. Make sure that you secure the lids back on your dishes after dispensing food. This will prevent flies, ants and other pests from trying to sample your meal.

4. Food Safety is Critical: When packing for a picnic, give careful consideration to the types of food you plan to bring. Making sure that perishable items stay cold is critical to avoid food pathogens from poisoning your experience. There is a common misconception that fried chicken can be brought to a picnic, even if it has sat out at room temperature for half a day or more. Eating perishable items such as meat, dairy and cut produce at room temperature creates a situation ripe for food borne illness. Make sure that refrigerated items are cold before you pack them in your cooler. Pack plenty of ice to ensure that they stay at the proper temperature prior to consumption. If you plan a large hike prior to your picnic, there are insulated cooler backpacks available that are extremely useful when transporting perishable picnic food. If picnic food gets warm, throw it away. It’s not worth risking a case of food poisoning to save a little food. Food with mayonnaise in it is particularly susceptible to spoilage, so be especially cautious with the chicken and tuna salads. If you plan to be out in the wilderness for an extended period of time prior to consuming your food, you may want to consider bringing non-perishable foods such as beef jerky, granola bars, sealed juice pouches and the like in lieu of more perishable fare.

5. Check the Weather: Nothing ruins a good picnic like a thunderstorm. Check the weather before you head out the door. www.weather.com allows you to look up the weather for your particular region on an hour-by-hour basis letting you know how likely it is to rain or storm at the exact time you plan to enjoy your lunch. Also, it may be a good idea to check the temperature to make sure you won’t freeze or roast while enjoying the great outdoors!

When heading out for a picnic, remember a little planning goes a long way! Enjoy your time, take along books, games or other outdoor activities so you and your family can enjoy some quality time together in the great outdoors after your meal!

For a picnic fried chicken, check out the recipe below!

Picnic Fried Chicken:

8 Chicken Drumsticks
1/2 cup of Buttermilk
1/2 cup of Flour
1 teas. Salt
1/2 teas. Pepper
1/2 teas. Cayenne Pepper (Can be increased bit, if you like it spicier)
Vegetable Oil for frying
Dry off the raw chicken with clean paper towels. Pour the buttermilk into a shallow bowl. Mix the flour, salt, pepper and cayenne in a separate shallow bowl. Prepare a skillet by pouring approximately ¼ inch of vegetable oil in the bottom of the pan. An electric skillet works particularly well. Heat the oil on medium heat, or at 300-325 degrees, if using an electric skillet. Dip the drumsticks into the buttermilk. Let excess buttermilk drip off and then roll the chicken in the flour/pepper mixture until well coated. Discard any remaining buttermilk and flour mixture. Put the chicken into the oil slowly. If the oil is popping and splattering, turn the heat down just a bit. You want to hear the chicken gently frying, but don’t want it so hot that the oil splatters up at you or onto the stove. Cook the chicken for ten minutes until skin starts to brown and then rotate 90 degrees. Cook the next side for 10 minutes and rotate again. Continue this process until all sides of the drumstick are golden brown. In total, this should take approximately forty minutes. Once the meat is golden brown all over, put a lid on your skillet and cook for an additional five to ten minutes covered. This will help ensure that the meat is cooked through. Using a meat thermometer, make sure the chicken reads at 165 degrees at its thickest part. Once hot enough, remove the chicken from the oil and place on clean paper towels to cool. Once cool, refrigerate for your picnic. Chicken fried in this manner may be prepared a day in advance of your picnic excursion. Make sure the chicken stays chilled at 40 degrees or below in order to ensure that it’s safe to eat. Pair with a simple salad, some fruit and some chips. Enjoy!

It’s about that time. The weather is warming up, spring flowers are popping up all over the place and folks are starting to think about their summer camping trips. Whether in a tent, RV or rustic cabin, camping in the Northwoods of Wisconsin and Minnesota can be a magical experience. With thousands of acres of untouched wilderness, gorgeous lakes, and plenty of peace and solitude, this extraordinary region reinvigorates the senses and the soul. Although camping can be a wonderful experience, it is critical to remember that a great camping trip can be easily destroyed by wayward wildlife. Mice, squirrels, and raccoons are common food culprits. Less common are the occasional black bears that roam this region. Bears are clearly the animal one most often thinks of when preparing to go camping. Fortunately, bear are generally timid creatures; however, when cornered or threatened in anyway, they are also one of nature’s most dangerous. Taking adequate safety precautions to protect your food and yourself can make all the difference between an enjoyable camping trip and a disaster. Below are some of the pitfalls to avoid unwelcome animal guests on your next camping trip:

Clean up your trash. Keeping a clean campsite is one of the most important ways to eliminate the risk of animals crashing in on your camping trip. Not only are bears and other animals, attracted to the smells of fresh food, they are equally interested in scents from trash and food remnants. Most campsites provide access to locked trash bins. Use them.

Wash the dishes. The smell of food on pots and pans will almost certainly attract unwelcome visitors. Even barbecue grills that are not properly cleaned off will leave a lingering scent on the air capable of attracting all sorts of critters.

Protect your food. Food should never, ever be stored in your tent. Keep all of your edible items in a locked cooler, secured with a rope and hoisted high up into a tree. If you don’t have a lockable cooler, double bag items in plastic bags and tie them off and then hoist them up into a nearby tree. Bears and raccoons are generally unable to access food that is hung at least ten (10) feet in the air. Leftover food items from that wonderful campfire cook-out should be securely stored or incinerated. Generally though, bear-proof canisters are the best method to protect your edible supplies. Such containers are available at most sporting goods stores.

Food isn’t the only thing that will interest a bear. Although it is a less well known fact, bears are also attracted to sweet smelling lotions, sunscreens, gum, candy and toothpaste. Avoid bringing fragrant smelling lotions, deodorants and perfumes on camping expeditions. Gum, candy and toothpaste should be treated in the same manner as food. Bears, in particular, are attracted by the scent of mint. In fact, don’t even brush your teeth too close to your campsite. A bear will pick up on the toothpaste residue on the ground and may be compelled to pay you an unwelcome visit.

Scare the bears before they scare you. Bear bells will alert these critters that you are moving through the forest. Wearing red and other bright colors may alert them to your presence, as well. Sing and talk loudly as you walk. Carry pepper spray and be prepared the use it should you happen across a bear during your time in the woods.

Bears aren’t the only woodland culprits. Sure, bears may be the scariest, but mice and other rodents are much more of a danger statistically. Rodents will be attracted to your campsite over night and may be in and around your cookware and utensils while you sleep. Rodents will leave nasty droppings which can cause illness from bacteria and viruses. Keep yourself safe. Wash your cookware thoroughly before using it the next day. You never know what may have been foraging through your things at night.

Please don’t feed the wildlife. Sure the deer seem like sweet creatures, but for goodness sake, don’t draw them to your campsite by offering them food. Wildlife such as squirrels and rodents may be carriers of disease. Raccoons and other animals may be aggressive in their food-seeking tactics. Male deer may be particularly mean during mating season and may pose a threat to you and your family if you catch them in a bad mood. Furthermore, feeding these critters may disrupt their delicate digestive systems. I will never forget watching campers at a neighboring campsite feed the deer ‘Cheetos’. It was a bad idea for so many reasons.

Keep your distance. In the Northwoods, you may be lucky enough to catch a glimpse of an elk or a moose. While these majestic creatures are incredible to view and you will likely want a picture to capture the moment, use your zoom lens rather than sneaking up on him. Like deer, male elk and moose can be aggressive. Females will defend their young if they feel threatened in anyway. And, it should go without saying, but never, ever approach a bear. If find yourself in an unexpected confrontation with one, do not run. Bears will respond negatively if you appear to be frightened or run away from them. If you are some distance from the bear, retreat slowly, letting him know that you are not a threat. If a bear is closer, try to make yourself appear as large as possible and speak to him in low, clear tones, avoiding any appearance of fear or vulnerability. Before venturing into bear country, be sure to do a little reading up on the topic of what you should do if you find yourself face to face with one. Different species react differently to various stimuli and you should be familiar with the best techniques to deter a bear attack in the area you will be travelling.

Bring your bugspray. Bugs are particularly annoying on a camping expedition. Not to mention, they may carry diseases, as well. Bring your bug repellent and use it often. Citronella candles can deter pesky insects from approaching you. Mosquito coils are particularly effective in and around your campsite and can be found at most local sporting equipment stores.

Avoid camping near large piles of brush or tall grasses, as they may be safe havens for snakes and other such critters. Stay away from snakes, particularly if you are unfamiliar with the species, as some may be poisonous or otherwise dangerous. Similarly, avoid camping close to standing pools of water. Such areas will likely be rife with mosquitos and other insects.

So, when planning your next camping expedition, be sure to keep this advice of avid campers in mind. Camping can be a wonderful adventure and wildlife viewing is almost certainly going to be highlight of your trip. That being said, you don’t want your interactions with the locals to be too close for comfort. Prepare ahead and avoid uninvited animal intruders to ensure your camping expedition is a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone involved.

When imagining the scenery of northern Minnesota, nine times out of ten the first image that might come to mind is the sublime lakes and old world forests of the Northwoods. While northern Minnesota is certainly renowned for its spectacular lakes, people may be less familiar with the terrain along the northern lakeshore of Lake Superior. Heading northeast up Highway 61 from Duluth, Minnesota, travelers can expect to encounter some of the most majestically beautiful scenery east of the Mississippi. Along the northern lakeshore of Lake Superior, one can find breath-taking rock cliffs, waterfalls and the occasional hidden lake, tucked away in the hills and accessible only by foot. As travelers make their way up the lakeshore, eventually they will encounter the extraordinary Tettegouche State Park, a mere sixty-five miles from downtown Duluth. Rich with history and beautiful natural resources, Tettegouche is a perennial favorite of many visitors to the northern Minnesota region.

In 1898, the Alger-Smith Lumber Company began the process of harvesting the virgin pine forests located along the shores of Lake Superior. Once many of the resources of the wilderness were depleted, the Alger-Smith Lumber Company sold the property to a group of local businessmen known as the Tettegouche Club in 1910 for the purposes of establishing a fishing retreat. In 1921, one of the members of the Tettegouche Club, Clement Quinn, bought the other members’ shares in the retreat and protected the territory until 1971. In 1971, Mr. Quinn transferred the property to the deLaittres family who began negotiations to preserve the area as a state park several years later. In 1979, the Tettegouche Camp land became part of the official Tettegouche State Park. Today the park is operated by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources.

In total, Tettegouche State Park encompasses nearly ten thousand (10,000) acres and contains six inland lakes, most of which are only accessible by foot. The fishing is plentiful here in Tettegouche State Park; northern pike and walleye being particularly prevalent. For wildlife viewing, Tettegouche State Park is nothing short of spectacular. Here, white-tailed deer, snowshoe hares, beaver, river otters and maybe even the occasional moose can be spotted amongst the evergreen forests. For adventurous folks with a thorough knowledge of plants and berries, wild blueberries are a delectable treat. Tettegouche State Park boasts numerous campgrounds, twenty-eight in total, many of them equipped with modern bathroom facilities and pay phones. For the truly authentic Tettegouche experience, consider a stay in one of the four original historic cabins of Tettegouche Camp. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the cabins of Tettegouche Camp allow lodgers to experience a vacation of yesteryear here in northern Minnesota.

For those up to the challenge, Tettegouche State Park is located along the Superior Hiking Trail, a two hundred and eighty-six (286) mile path running from the city of Duluth all the way up the lakeshore to the Canadian border. Highlights of this trail are Palisade Head and Shovel Point, both impressive vantage points overlooking the waters of Lake Superior. With numerous campgrounds along the trail and frequent trailhead parking lots, the Superior Hiking Trail is the perfect spot for either a short daytrip or a longer hiking excursion. Throughout the year, members of the Superior Hiking Trail Association lead free guided tours of specific sections of the trail. For more information about the Superior Hiking Trail, be sure to contact or visit the office and store of the Superior Hiking Trail located in Two Harbors, Minnesota.

With the towering cliffs of Tettegouche State Park, this region is known for its ample rock climbing opportunities. Many an intrepid adventurer has come to Tettegouche State Park in search of some of the most impressive rock climbing in the great state of Minnesota. Be cautious though when hiking at the top of the cliffs. There are few, if any, guard rails in this region making it a dicey spot for children and pets. For those with an aversion to heights, many of the pebble-covered beaches located at the base of the rock cliffs are accessible by winding hiking paths. With the multitude of sheer rock cliffs overlooking Lake Superior, there is, or course, no shortage of waterfalls here at Tettegouche State Park. Plummeting over sixty (60) feet, High Falls is the highest waterfall located entirely in the state of Minnesota. Located at the mouth of the Baptism River, High Falls is a sight that should not be missed. A suspension bridge at the top of the waterfall connects the southern and northern portions of the Superior Hiking Trail.

If you are looking for a different type of vacationing experience, immersed in the beauty of the natural world, consider planning your next trip to the Tettegouche State Park. Whether you are looking for a spot for tent camping, a great RV park, campground or a luxury vacation rental, the area surrounding Tettegouche State Park and the greater Duluth area are sure to offer the perfect lodging choice for you and your family. Close enough to civilization for comfort, but remote enough for peace, quiet and synergy with the natural world, Tettegouche State Park and the surrounding region offers so much more than the average vacation destination. Plan your trip today!

Cooking out over a campfire in the great outdoors has an appeal many fancier restaurant meals lack. The methods are simple, but the results can be scrumptious when done properly. Although campfire cooking can be a great way to wind down after a long day of hiking and exploring the wilderness, there are certain issues that must be addressed in order to ensure the food you bring is safe and healthy for your friends and family. There is nothing that will ruin a great family camping trip faster than a nasty case of food poisoning. Listed below are several ways to ensure your next fire-cooked delicacy is safe and tasty:

Keep uncooked food chilled to the appropriate temperature: When you bring food on a camping expedition, it is all too easy for your perishable food to get too warm. When car-camping (i.e. driving to your campsite with your car or recreational vehicle (RV)), make sure you travel with a well-insulated cooler. Replenish the ice often, preferably every twelve to twenty-four hours. One of my favorite tricks is to freeze some juice pouches for the kids to use as cold packs until they thaw. Once thawed, the kids have something to drink. A great way to extend the life of perishable items is to freeze them before leaving on your camping trip and packing them frozen. If perishable meats or vegetables become too thawed and warm, discard them immediately. If you happen to be trekking to your campsite on foot, make sure the food and supplies you carry with you are of the non-perishable variety.

Package meat separately from vegetables and snacks you will not be cooking: This will help to avoid cross-contamination as meat thaws in your cooler. Cross contamination can occur when bacteria and parasites from uncooked or spoiled foods comes into contact with food that would otherwise be safe. Keep your meat in tightly sealed containers. Trust me; it’s not worth a nasty case of food poisoning to avoid throwing away a little food. E coli can be prevalent at campsites without a proper refrigerator or freezer.

Bring non-perishable items: Whenever possible, bring preserved items such as dried fruit and pre-sealed snacks. Canned foods, beef jerky, jars of peanut butter, dried nuts and powdered drinks are all fairly safe choices, as well. These sorts of items will not spoil in the same way fresh meat, cheese or vegetables might.

Cook meat to an appropriate internal temperature: When you cook over the campfire, make sure that your food reaches the appropriate temperature before eating it. Consuming under-cooked poultry, beef, pork or fish can create a situation ripe for bacteria growth, potentially causing what might amount to an extremely uncomfortable illness. Generally, poultry, pork and ground beef should be cooked to an internal temperature of 165 degrees in order to ensure that nasty bacteria have been eliminated. Check with a reputable cooking resource to make sure you know the appropriate internal temperature for the type of meat you plan to have for dinner. Always carry a food thermometer with you when camping to accurately gage the doneness of your food before consuming.

Store leftovers properly: Once you eat, make sure that leftovers are properly stored and chilled if you have plans to consume the food at a later time. Leaving food out for hours and then putting it away can create a situation where your food may be vulnerable to bacteria growth and spoilage. A general rule of thumb is that you should throw away any perishable food that has been out longer than two hours. Avoid the problem altogether and refrigerate leftovers and perishables promptly.

Store snacks and other food items securely: Wildlife will take advantage of any opportunity to ransack your food and supplies. It can take a raccoon or a couple of blue jays mere minutes to destroy a great deal of food. Make sure your food is tightly secured in an area not accessible by the local wildlife. If you happen to be camping in an area where there may be bears, make sure you check for specific methods of protecting your food, some of which may involve hoisting your food up out of reach of these hungry, not to mention dangerous, creatures.

Keep things shaded: Sunshine can make packaged food extremely warm and may promote spoilage even in foods that wouldn’t otherwise spoil. Make sure that food is tightly sealed and protected from the sun and excessive heat.

Wash your hands: Before eating or preparing food, make sure that you wash your hands with purified water. Wash your hands any time you have been handling raw meat or items that may have been in contact with raw meat. Personally, I am not a big proponent of anti-bacterial gel or wipes, but they will certainly work in a pinch in the great outdoors.

Make sure your drinking water is safe: Certain campsites may have access to safe drinking water sources. If you are unsure of the safety of the local water though, make sure you purify it. The safest way to ensure water’s purity is to boil it. If the water has sand, silt or dirt in it, allow the sediments to settle to the bottom, dip the clean water off the top and then boil it from there. Water must be boiled for at least one minute before it is safe to drink. Of course, allow the water to cool to a drinkable temperature before consuming it or using it for hand or dish washing. Water purification tablets can be a useful alternative if boiling is not an option; however, there is a chance this method will not kill quite all of the bacteria you may be worried about.

Make sure your dishes and utensils are clean: Making sure your dishes are clean is essential to staying healthy and avoiding food-bourne illness. After using a utensil or platter for uncooked meats, be absolutely sure that the item is sanitized fully before using it for foods that are cooked and ready to eat. Biodegradable soaps can be bought that will help ensure that you leave the campsite in as natural a state as possible while still allowing you to wash your dishes. Your local camping supply store should stock such soap. Large galvanized steel buckets can be filled with water and placed over the fire. Cleaned, washed dishes can then be placed in a large mesh laundry bag and dipped into the clean boiling water for an extra sanitizing rinse.

Clean fish or other game promptly: Clean caught fish or game promptly and store in ice. Take home and refrigerate or freeze promptly unless you are planning to eat your catch at the campsite.

Eating in the great outdoors can be an adventure in itself; however, the lack of a refrigerator, dishwasher, clean water and ice can substantially increase the likelihood of cross-contamination, food spoilage and ultimately food poisoning. When in doubt, discard questionable food items. Anyone who has had a nasty case of food poisoning can tell you that it is better to be safe than sorry when dealing with food safety issues. Observing proper safety protocol will significantly reduce the risks, helping to ensure and safe and happy camping experience for all.

Over the course of the twentieth century, the game of golf has gradually emerged as one of our most cherished leisure activities. The game of golf allows everyone from professionals to amateurs to enjoy the game in equal measure, providing entertainment, relaxation, exercise and enjoyment to millions of people around the world. Here in the United States, from business tournaments to exclusive golfing vacations, golf has arguably overtaken baseball as one of our favorite pastimes.

While golf is certainly here to stay, its place in history was not always so certain. The origins of the game of golf are often debated amongst scholars and aficionados of the game. From what little is known, a version of the game apparently first appeared in the medieval era in Europe. Due to its emerging popularity in Scotland, the game is commonly thought to be a Scottish sport. While Scotland is typically credited with the evolution of the rules and regulations of the game, golf actually experienced a somewhat sordid history in the laws and culture of the country. Around 1457, an edict issued by King James II of Scotland prohibited both the games of golf and football under the theory that these sports distracted participants from more crucial military training drills. Famously, Mary, Queen of Scots, was accused of playing golf by her political enemies, a sport which was thought to be ‘unladylike’ in 16th century Scotland. Golf was again banned by Parliament under King James VI of Scotland. In spite of its controversial history in Scotland, the sport of golf prevailed and its popularity spread to the rest of Europe and ultimately to the United States in the 19th century.

Today, golf has become so popular that people have been known to plan their entire vacations around where they plan to play. Luxurious golf resorts have become increasingly accessible here in the United States. While the focal point of such resorts is often a gorgeous golf course, or even two, these resorts often feature a variety of other amenities to attract a wider variety of guests, not solely golfers. Such amenities include everything from waterparks and kids’ day-camp activities to five star restaurants and luxurious spas. With beautiful accommodations, countless activities and all-inclusive travel packages, golfing resorts are often an incredible value for families looking for rest and relaxation.

Note: Be sure to check out the Giant’s Ridge real estate options offered by LakePlace.com.

Minnesota is a surprisingly delightful location to experience a golf resort in the northern Midwest region of the United States. Beautiful terrain, temperate climates and a relatively low cost of living combine to create the perfect spot for a short golfing excursion or even a longer golfing retreat. As an added bonus, the northern Minnesota region isn’t typically overrun with tourists, as may be the case in more well-known spots such as Hilton Head or southern California. For one of the premiere golfing locations of Minnesota, Giant’s Ridge Golf and Ski Resort is an ideal choice. Year after year, the Giant’s Ridge Golf and Ski Resort of Biwabik, Minnesota has ranked as one of the best places in Minnesota to experience the gorgeous, rolling landscape of northern Minnesota on the golf course. Giant’s Ridge Golf and Ski Resort has not only rated as one of Minnesota’s best golfing resorts, it has consistently been named in national publications as one of the finest golf and ski resorts in the nation.

In the winter, Giant’s Ridge is home to some of the best skiing to be found in Minnesota. The resort is completed by an indoor pool, an Aveda concept spa, several restaurants, miles of hiking trails and easy access to Sabin and Wynne Lakes of northern Minnesota. Most importantly, Giant’s Ridge Golf and Ski Resort is comprised of two outstanding golf courses: The Quarry and the Legend. In the 2009-2010 reviews and rankings by Golf Digest, the Quarry ranked at #1 and the Legend ranked at #3 in the “Best Public Golf Courses in Minnesota.” Nationally, the Quarry was ranked at #20 and the Legend at #72 in the “America’s 100 Greatest Public Golf Courses” by Golf Digest for the same time period. With rankings like these, it’s clear that Giant’s Ridge maintains a consistently high standard of quality with both of these exemplary golf courses.

The Quarry

At the southern edge of the resort, close to Embarrass Lake, lies the Quarry golf course. The Quarry of Giant’s Ridge Golf and Ski Resort features 18 gorgeous holes with over 7200 yards with a par of 72, according to the Giant’s Ridge website. Designed by acclaimed golfing architect, Jeffrey Brauer, it is often said that the Quarry has redefined golfing in the Midwest region of the United States. It is the newest addition to the Giant’s Ridge resort area. Some of the Quarry’s terrain is actually composed of reclaimed mining land. While mining once depleted some of the natural beauty of this region, these formerly stark lands have been transformed into a lush golfing paradise here in the Northwoods. Comprised of natural wetlands, forests, an old sand quarry and deep hazards left over from the reclaimed mining land, the Quarry is truly a challenge for avid golfers. Nestled in the heart of the Mesabi Iron Range and the Vermilion Iron Range of northern Minnesota, each hole of the Quarry is named in honor of a mine of the region.

In referring to the Quarry, Ron Whitten, a Golf Digest critic, noted that the course was “…hands down the finest course in Minnesota.” While the course itself is challenging and beautiful, the amenities offered at Giant’s Ridge complete the experience. Before teeing up, golfers should be sure to take peek at all the Giant’s Ridge golf shops have to offer. Featuring an array of fine golfing brands for both men and women, the Giant’s Ridge golf shops are sure to offer great gifts, or much needed supplies for the most avid of golfers. After a lovely day on the greens, golfers should be sure to stop in for a relaxed bite or a drink with friends at the Wacootah Grille. While perfect for outdoor weddings and banquets, the Wacootah Grille is also cozy enough for a friendly get together with friends and family after eighteen holes. Other restaurants and even a coffee shop can be found here at Giant’s Ridge Golf and Ski Resort.

Golfers on The Quarry are charged a daily fee, which is quite reasonable for such outstanding golfing. The Quarry is a walkable course, although golf carts are available to rent. Located at 6325 Wynne Creek Drive in Biwabik, the golf courses at Giant’s Ridge are sure to provide golfers with an experience they will not soon forget. Set against the rolling hills of northern Minnesota, with outstanding wildlife roaming the region, the Quarry of Giant’s Ridge Golf and Ski Resort is truly something to behold.

The Legend

Just to the north of the resort property, featuring eighteen holes of pure golfing bliss, the Legend has its own spot in the hearts of many golfers. Situated on the shores of Sabin Lake, the Legend is comprised of eighteen holes, over 6,930 yards with a par of 72. While the Legend may not be quite as well known as the Quarry, don’t be fooled; this course is every bit as challenging and as beautiful. Although these two incredible courses are located on the same resort property, the landscape of each of the courses is unique and different from its resort counter-part. With bent grass fairways, countless blue lakes, giant boulders left behind in the wake of the glaciers of eras past and an incredible array of old-world trees towering over white sand bunkers, the Legend is gorgeous in its own right.

Like the Quarry, the Legend has its very own golf shop, also fully equipped with top golfing brands such as Titlest, Greg Norman, Ben Hogan, Nike, Calloway and more. Golf accessories including sunglasses, sunscreen, towels, memorabilia items and light snacks are also sold here. Designed by PGA touring professional, Lanny Wadkins, and the acclaimed golf course architect, Jeffrey Brauer, the Legend is Minnesota golfing at its finest. The Legend at Giant’s Ridge has reportedly received a prestigious 4.5 star golf rating from Golf Digest for multiple consecutive years. Furthermore, this spectacular course was named as one of the “Top 6 Golf Destinations in the World” by the editors of Golf World in 2003.

For a chance to experience this most beloved American pastime of golf amid some of the most splendid terrain of the northern hemisphere, plan your trip to the Legend and the Quarry courses of Giant’s Ridge Golf and Ski Resort today. Golfing and resort packages are available and make a trip to this gorgeous resort surprisingly affordable for families looking to experience unrivaled beauty, rest and relaxation here in the Minnesota Northwoods. Lessons taught by professionals, golf tournaments and the spectacular courses themselves bring golfers back year after year. Tee times are available online, so what are you waiting for? Come see what everyone is talking about. It is sure to be a golfing vacation the memories of which you will cherish for a lifetime.

A friend of mine who runs a small fishing camp has a particular talent he puts to good use several times every summer. He is an expert fishhook remover. Unfortunately, it’s fingers, not fish that he specializes in.

Each year several of his guests, including those from Wisconsin and Minnesota, find themselves in an embarrassing and painful situation. Normally caused by a thrashing northern pike, these anglers show up at my friend’s dock looking for help to remove a barbed treble hook that invariably got transferred from the mouth of a fish into a finger or thumb.

As with Minnesota and Wisconsin, the use of barbed hooks is generally permitted in Ontario where my friend plies his trade throughout the summer months.

Minimizing unnecessary damage to the fish we catch is certainly reason enough for anglers to use barbless hooks, whether required or not. For anglers who aren’t particularly concerned for the well being of the fish, using barbless hooks has a more selfish motivation – minimizing personal pain and avoiding an expensive trip to the local hospital.

The system my friend employs to remove hooks from fingers is quite effective, though crude and extremely painful. He simply takes a sturdy pair of pliers and thrusts the embedded hook all the way through the rest of the finger until the barb breaks the skin on the other side. Sometimes a bone gets in the way and he has to wiggle around it, but eventually he gets the job done. Once the barb is exposed he cuts off the end of the hook and pulls the remaining piece back through the original hole.

Now, for anglers who can’t or won’t subject themselves to the pain, the other option is a trip to the hospital emergency room which usually sets a non-resident back about $500, and wipes out an entire day of fishing – which is the last thing you want when you are on your annual one week fishing trip with the boys.

While you may consider your impaled finger to be a critical injury, the emergency staff are likely to put you at the bottom of the priority list and your blood pressure will certainly rise with every new ER visitor that jumps the queue in front of you. In fact, you’ll be lucky to get back to the camp for dinner.

A hook in the finger seems bad enough, but more serious incidents are not uncommon. Eyes, ears, lips, and private parts have also been snagged by barbed hooks, mostly as the result of a careless fishing buddy. A missed hook-set or a spit bait will also launch a lure into an unprotected area of the body. Obviously, these injuries go beyond the scope of my camp-owner friend’s skills, and I will let you use your own imagination to figure out the end of these stories.

So, in the interest of saving the lives of a few more fish and avoiding an expensive accident on your next fishing trip, take the time to buy barbless hooks or pinch and file the barbs on your existing lures. You may lose the odd extra fish but I would argue that the reduced risks of personal injury more than make up for one or two less fish in the boat.

Special Notes: Barbless hooks are sometimes required in State, Provincial and National Parks, during winter fishing, or in areas where the populations of certain fish species are at risk. The Province of Manitoba requires the use of barbless hooks in all areas.

Andrew Walker is the editor of CottageTips.com. CottageTips.com strives to be a useful and rewarding place for all cottage and cabin owners to find, request, and exchange information about all things related to outdoor living.

Cheese Curds – The Quintessential Wisconsin Treats.

Wisconsin locals will tell you that there is no finer, more unique snack in the state of Wisconsin than the cheese curd. While many folks from states to the south have heard the term ‘cheese curd,’ many would have a hard time explaining the concept, flavor or texture of these delectable treats. In Wisconsin, they are practically a dietary staple due to the plethora of cheese factories and dairy farms in the state.

Legend has it that cheese curds were ‘discovered’ by a nomadic tribesman in the Middle East hundreds of years ago. According to the stories, this man was travelling across the intensely hot desert on a camel or mule. Prior to leaving on his journey, he filled up saddle bags made from the stomach of young cows with fresh milk. By the time he made it to his destination, the milk had curdled, leaving large chunks of curdled milk and voila! The cheese curd was born.

Today, the process by which cheese curds are made is much more refined than the method of this nomad of yesteryear with his saddle bags of milk. Today, the process starts with a large quantity of fresh, high quality milk. A starter culture is added, as well as an enzyme called rennet in order to kick start the curdling process. Next, the cheese curd makers work to separate the liquid, also known as whey, from the milk solids, or curds. This process is commonly referred to as cutting. The mixture of the curds and whey is then cooked. Afterward, the liquid residue is drained, leaving the curds behind.

The type of cheese curd form is determined by the type of starter culture added. Cheese curds can be found in all sorts of varieties including mozzarella, Colby jack and cheddar. Various flavoring such as garlic and herbs can be added to enhance the natural flavors of the cheese curds. Cheese curds are really just extremely young cheese, consumed before the cheese ages and ripens into cheese familiar to most folks. Cheese curds are best eaten when they are extremely fresh before they have a chance to age. Cheese curds which are refrigerated or cheese curds more than a day or so old lose much of their desirable qualities, drying out and losing their essential texture and flavor.

Fresh cheese curds have an utterly unique texture unlike anything you may have experienced before. Instead of a creamy cheesiness most of us might expect, fresh cheese curds are decidedly squeaky. That’s right; squeaky. This squeakiness is attributed to the amount of air in the curd itself. As the curd become less fresh, this squeaky quality is lost. Fried cheese curds are a particularly favorite snack of locals. After all, who can resist fried cheese – yum! Although not a dish native to the Wisconsin area, cheese curds also make their appearance in the classic Canadian dish known as poutine. Poutine consists of French fries, topped with cheese curds with a healthy scoop of gravy overtop to keep the French fries hot. The dish is not particularly healthy, but it’s hard for the taste buds to go wrong with French fries, fresh cheese and gravy.

In addition to plain or fried cheese curds, Wisconsin locals have developed thousands of recipes in which to use these delectable bites. From cakes to gourmet chicken recipes, the cheese curd appears in a wide variety of Wisconsin cuisine. Wisconsin is a state serious about its cheese. No matter what part of this great state you may be visiting, cheese curds are a must-try food. Come and experience the culture of Wisconsin!