My August nature resolution was a simple goal: an overnight backpacking trip on the Superior Hiking Trail. Just me, two days of hiking, and my bedroom (tent) on my back. This was going to be a dry-run, albeit short. One day, I’d like to do the through-hike—all 300 miles of wilderness—but this August trip was supposed to whet my appetite since I’ve never done a backpacking trip.
Then I switched gears.
A friend wanted to drive up the North Shore with me, and I thought that sounded fun (it was). We talked about hiking and tenting, but in the end decided to set up camp in one place and drive to various trailheads. Not exactly the plan, but the change was a good one. It turned out to be a fantastic trip.
Day One
Christine and I left the Twin Cities on Thursday morning and headed for Grand Marais, where we had two nights reserved at the Hungry Hippie Hostel and Campground. Before checking in, we drove farther north to hike to Devil’s Kettle in Judge C.R. Magney State Park.
I’ve been to Devil’s Kettle several times and never tire of it. Absolutely beautiful! The two-mile round trip winds through dense woods along the rushing Brule River.
After the hike, we headed to the campground and set up our tent. We had a hot meal cooked over an open fire and enjoyed the evening.
Day Two
We woke early, had coffee and a hearty breakfast, and set out for Eagle Mountain—a seven-mile round trip to the highest natural point in Minnesota at about 2,300 feet. Yes, I hear you, Alaska and Colorado—it’s not a super high elevation, but who’s competing?
The last mile of the hike was rocky, uneven, and steep, making it a moderately difficult but rewarding hike. Eagle Mountain sits within the Boundary Waters Canoe Area, and reaching a summit—no matter the height—is always a thrill for me.
Afterward, we explored Grand Marais and took a short walk onto a peninsula in Lake Superior.
Day Three
Saturday morning, we needed to break camp and move to Temperance River State Park. I woke early and decided to let Christine sleep while I went in search of coffee. The night before had brought a little rain, and I didn’t feel like starting a fire in a damp pit.
About fifteen minutes down the road, I noticed the sky was growing darker, not lighter. The clouds looked ominous. I turned around, drove back to camp, woke Christine, and we packed up. In just over half an hour, everything was in the car—and minutes later, the rain began. Thunder. Lightning. A downpour.
We headed into town and took cover in a coffee shop.
Later that morning we drove to Gooseberry Falls to meet our friend Lisa. Together, we hiked along the Gooseberry River, enjoying the falls, the woods, and each other’s company. I realized how lovely it was to share nature with friends. I often go solo and forget how much joy there is in exploring together.
That evening, we set up camp at Temperance River, shared another meal, and went to bed early. The sound of Lake Superior floated on the breeze, lulling me to sleep. I was at peace, perfectly content on the ground in a tent.
There’s something about camping and nature’s soundtrack that speaks to my soul. It’s not for everyone, but it’s definitely for me. In the wild, I lose myself—and find myself.
I’m blessed to live in a state rich in lakes, forests, rocky formations, and wildlife. Our state parks are beautiful and well-kept, thanks to the people who care for them. I’m grateful for their work and the gift they preserve.
Day Four
On our final morning, the three of us lingered over deep and meaningful conversations about nature, faith, and friendship. Those moments were as valuable as the hikes themselves.
Eventually, we drove to Tettegouche State Park. After some discussion and research, we learned the correct pronunciation—Tet-a-goo-shh. (Important stuff!)
We hiked along the Baptism River to High Falls, Minnesota’s tallest waterfall at 60 feet. (The High Falls of the Pigeon River is taller at 120 feet, but it straddles the Canada–Minnesota border.)
High Falls was spectacular. We waded in the water, admired the rock formations, and laughed at the brave little minnows nibbling at our fingers and legs. I even tried to catch a crayfish, but they were too quick.
Afterward, we drove to Two Harbors for lunch and one last round of good conversation before parting ways—Lisa in her car, Christine and I in mine.
What more can I say about the North Shore of Lake Superior and the company of friends?
Pages.
I could go on and on about the joy and value it brings to my life.
For now, I’ll just say that the detour from my August nature resolution was a great idea. I’ll carry my bedroom on my back another time. There are so many nature adventures ahead.
What a wonderful, wild, and exciting world we get to explore!
