Robbinsdale Area Schools Community Education

Experience the beauty of fall colors on the Mighty Mississippi River and learn about this wonderful resource that flows through the Twin Cities. Bring your camera as you will get plenty of colorful shots. Start: East River Flats 360 East River Rd, Minneapolis (View Map) End: Sand Flats off West River Parkway and 34th St (View Map) How it works: You will paddle "The Gorge" of the Mississippi—the only natural canyon on the full length of the river! The route takes 2-3 hours, with about 2 hours of actual paddling time. We provide water but you should bring your own snacks. There are bathrooms at the beginning and end of each trip. We will shuttle you back to your car after the trip is over. Detailed instructions on your route and where to meet will be sent upon confirmation of your participation. You will be paddling in 24-foot North canoes, following the river’s 3-4 mph current as it winds along the shoreline. The canoes hold 6-9 paddlers and 1 boat captain. They are fast and stable boats, designed specifically for trips on big or moving water. Paddling distance ranges from 4-8 miles, depending upon the route we do. It is an active paddle, but not strenuous. Sample Itinerary Day 1 Additional Information: -Paddling day trips are appropriate for beginners and seasoned paddlers alike. On the first day of all trips, basic paddling strokes will be taught by the trip leader. Each trip gives participants multiple opportunities to practice their skills. Participants with more experience will have plenty of opportunity to paddle during the trip, and even to help teach less experienced paddlers! -There is no hard age limit, but we recommend the event for ages 5 and older. All participants must be able to wear a PFD (personal floatation device). All children must be 30 lbs or greater to fit into a PFD provided by Wilderness Inquiry. You must supply a PFD for any smaller children. Participants can plan to be in the canoes for at least one hour at a time and should be comfortable sitting still for this length of time. -To complete your registration you will need to fill out a separate registration to receive additional information (packing lists, meeting times/locations, etc.) and sign waivers - see confirmation email once you are registered for the link. Held in partnership with Wilderness Inquiry

Create Family Memories on a Scenic River Trip Close to the Twin Cities! Share a fun-filled camping experience with your family along the beautiful and historic St. Croix River between Minnesota and Wisconsin. You will be guided by 1-2 Wilderness Inquiry guides on this 3 day trip. Paddle 24-foot North canoes down the easy-flowing water, viewing ancient petroglyphs on the cliffs along the way. Close to the Twin Cities, the river is a great location for a weekend family getaway. Relax and enjoy games and activities on the banks of the St. Croix, covered with pine, balsam, and birch that offer respite from the warm sun. This is a great vacation for those who want to enjoy a scenic and easygoing getaway with the family. The St. Croix offers something for everyone! This is the perfect destination for paddlers of all experience levels, abilities, and ages. The river is home to a diverse array of plant and animal species. As you paddle you may see turtles, hawks, bald eagles, beavers, otters, and deer. Sample Itinerary Day 1: Depart Interstate State Park and begin your paddle down the St. Croix. Meet at Minnesota's William O'Brien State Park in the morning and travel together with your group to your St. Croix River entry point at Interstate State Park - Minnesota. After a group orientation, unload gear, repack into Duluth packs, and get to know your surroundings as you embark down river amongst large basalt walls, carved into a canyon by ancient glacial meltwaters. Settle into your first campsite among towering white pines and spruce trees. Day 2: Search for bald eagles and great blue herons as you paddle to Osceola Landing. Rise to the aroma of coffee and breakfast before breaking camp and traveling downstream. Be on the lookout for bald eagles that grace the trees and sky. Great Blue Herons wade silently near the shoreline and Peregrine Falcons watch as we progress down the river. Take a break from paddling to stop for lunch and go for a swim. Arrive at your campsite near Osceola Landing. Set up camp, enjoy dinner and a fire under the stars, right on the banks of the river. Day 3: Enjoy one last morning paddle and say farewell to your trip mates. Take a mid-morning paddle to your take-out point at William O'Brien State park. Look for wintergreen and wildflowers. Eat one last lunch together before packing for the trip home. The trip officially ends in the early afternoon This trip will begin at 10:00 AM and end at 1:00 PM at the same location. This trip's starting and ending locations will be determined based on group mix and available permits. Detailed meeting place instructions will be sent to you when you are confirmed for the trip. -Held in partnership with Wilderness Inquiry -To complete your registration you will need to fill out a separate registration to receive additional information (packing lists, meeting times/locations, etc.) and sign waivers - see confirmation email once you are registered for the link.