Trip Length: 7 days and 6 nights
Bicycling: 4 days bicycling with an opportunity to bicycle at Itasca State Park

Overview
On this trip, you will pedal the land of 10,000 lakes as we begin our adventure in Minnesota’s oldest and largest state park, Itasca. This is also the headwaters of the Mississippi River that starts its 2,552 mile journey on its way to the Gulf of Mexico. Once home of American Indian fur traders, explorers, loggers, and Scandinavian pioneers all using this river for transportation, food, and survival. It is also home to the infamous Paul Bunyan and his blue ox, Babe. We will listen to the loons each evening and tales from locals of the folklore along the way.
Highlights
• Walk across the mouth of the Mississippi River
• Bike the virgin pine forests of the Paul Bunyan and Babe folklore
• Pedaling thru the Chippewa National Forest home of 150 eagle pairs
• Follow the Great River Road and Mississippi River Trail
• Listen for the call of loons
• Canoe the crystal clear Mississippi looking for native wild rice, a variety of fish, and eagles
• Pedal past 100’s of Minnesota’s 10,000 lakes
• Enjoy unique rustic cabins, lodges, and one night pampered camping
• Learn about the life of the lumberjack and pioneers of this area

Includes:
Group transport from/to Minneapolis/St. Paul
6 nights in unique cabins, lodges, hotels & one camp
Specialized bicycles w/ cyclometer and rear bag
All breakfasts, 4 lunches, and 4 dinners
Welcome reception on arrival at Itasca State Park
Guided Bicycle History Tour of Minneapolis
Canoe the Mississippi River with local naturalist
Forest History Center Tour
SAG support with fruit, snacks, Gatorade, & water
Transportation of luggage and gear each day
Maps, daily highlight meetings, and regional experts
Tents and all camping gear set up for you day 5
Photos of the trip uploaded to Flickr
Small group sizes of 12 or less