Saturday, May 12    SORRY, THIS TRIP IS FULL
Beginners Rock Climbing. Beginner's rock climbing day trip to Interstate St. Park on the Minnesota side. This climb is open to all climbers, but is limited to 10 beginners (unless I get some help from other tech leaders). Helmets are required for all climbers and belayers. Rovers will provide gear including helmets to beginners. Please contact (e-mail) me before the trip so I have enough gear along and can let you know if weather forces a cancelation.

Estimated cost: $0. Deposit: $0. Max trip size: 10.

Tom H.

Saturday, May 12    DAY TRIP / BEGINNER SERIES
Canoeing—Beginner's Series & Social. This is the first part of the Canoe Beginner's Series/Preparation for a BWCAW trip and open to all who are interested. We'll be building skills like paddle strokes and steering a canoe.

We'll put in near Cedar Point Beach at the North-East side of Cedar Lake in Minneapolis. We meet at 6:00 p.m. in the parking lot to be on the water at about 6:15 p.m. We'll paddle as long as the light is good. After that we'll go for some ice-cream at an establishment nearby.

We will try to partner up folks without canoes with those who have one. However, you may need to borrow a canoe from the cage (members only) or rent one from a local outfitter (non-members).

The second event in this series will be May 15 before the meeting at Lake Como.

Estimated cost: $0 (+canoe rental if applicable)

Ron T.  &  Rosie D.

Friday – Sunday, May 11–13    SORRY, THIS TRIP IS FULL!
Native Wildflower Hunting at Banning State Park. Always drive by Banning on your way up North? Maybe it's time to stop and smell the flowers. Or better yet, locate and photograph some threatened species! Peter and Katy from MN Wildflowers will be searching out some special flowers and have invited novice wildflower hunters to come along and see how it's done. Then on your next trip, you'll know what to do and can even teach others. Come put your skills into action and get a taste of true wildflower hunting. We will be searching for three or four expected species in the park. If we locate them, we'll have a great photo opportunity. And later, we can check them out cataloged on the MN Wildflowers web site! While this trip will be focused on the flora project, there may be time for hiking and birding. If time allows, we can also explore a nearby Scientific and Natural Area near Hinckley.

You bring your food, beverages, cooking/camping gear, and chair. Bring a dish to share for a potluck on Saturday night. We can coordinate on stoves and some basic pots. Flower newbies are welcome. It's critical that younger people take an interest in protecting native flora, so 3 spaces will be reserved until April 28 for members under 45.

We’ll arrange carpooling as the trip gets closer. Sorry, no dogs. Campsites are $47, and each can have two tents. Cost will vary, split by number of people per site.

Estimated cost: camp site + food, gas and park sticker. Deposit: $5 per night. Max trip size: 12.

Sponsoring organization: Minnesota Wildflowers

Annie S.

Friday – Sunday, May 11–13    
BWCAW Canoeing. Weekend BWCAW canoing trip near Ely, haven't picked a landing yet. This two day trip is on fishing opener, we will not go in but a lake or two, the focus is on just being there this new season, camping, relaxing, or fishing. Leave Friday evening at 6:00 p.m. and return on Sunday evening.

Basil L.

Thursday, May 10    DAY TRIP / BEGINNER FRIENDLY
Mountain Biking Elm Creek. These are still early season rides so beginners are very welcome and I will ride with the beginners and give pointers. All levels are welcome to join and lead the way!

Meet at 6:00 p.m. the trail head near the sign, across from the parking lot at 1827 West Hayden lake Road. Bicycle helmets required. Gloves recommended.

This event will be cancelled if significant rain. Check trail conditions on the Minnesota Off Road Cyclists (MORC) website or call Cheryl.

Estimated cost: $0. Deposit: $0. Max trip size: unlimited.

Cheryl B.

Wednesday, May 9    DAY TRIP / WEEKLY EVENT
Birding Walk at Minnesota River National Wildlife Refuge. Late afternoon casual and low key trips to view and talk about birds. We will visit local parks and other areas where birds are often readily observed and include a diversity of species.

Meet at 6:00 p.m. in the parking lot of the Minnesota River National Wildlife Refuge Bloomington Visitor Center (3815 American Boulevard East, Bloomington).  From I-494, take the 34th Street exit south one block to American Blvd and turn left (east); go about two blocks and turn into the visitor center (across from the Airport Hilton Hotel). 

Estimated cost: $0. Max trip size: Unlimited.

See the Weekly Events page for full schedule, details, and contact info.

Wednesday, May 9    DAY TRIP / CONSERVATION / VOLUNTEER
Garlic Mustard Pull at Crosby Farm. Help us pull the invasive edible garlic mustard plant at Crosby Farm (2595 Crosby Farm Rd, St. Paul, MN 55116). Meet at the farthest parking lot 2 lots past the Watergate Marina at 6:00 p.m. We'll pull the plant for 2 hours. If we get rid of this plant, the Trout Lillys, Jack in the Pulpits grow and maybe even the ramps come in (another edible plant associated with trout lillys)! Annie S. has assurred us that everyone who participates will get a free MN Rover bandanna as an added bonus! Please bring some gloves. You should ideally wear long pants and long lightweight shirt. Insect repellant is advised. This event will happen rain or shine. 

Sponsoring organization: Friends of the Mississippi River

Cheryl B. & Cathy H.

Tuesday, May 8    DAY TRIP / SOCIAL EVENT
First (Second) Tuesday Social. On the first Tuesday of each month (or in this special case, the second Tuesday), we're having a special event to engage new and younger club members. The goal of this event is to encourage all Rovers, young and seasoned, new and not so new, to join each other for the program and socializing at the bar after the meeting. This is an evening where you can count on people going to the meeting and/or bar. This ongoing event takes place the first Tuesday of every month during the regular meeting and bar time. The meetings are located at Como Zoo in St. Paul and the bar is Ol' Mexico Restaurant at 1754 Lexington Avenue N (2 blocks north of Larpenteur).

Seth D.

Sunday, May 6    DAY TRIP
2012 Ironman Bike Ride. Come join us for this annual Spring fun ride. Each year, many Rovers kick off the bicycling season with Ironman Bicycle Ride. Most usually do the 30-mile route, but you can choose from 17, 30, 68, and 100-mile route options. This year the event is one week later, that may make the difference between snow flurries and a warm, sunshiny day!

Note this is not a race, but a leisurely ride at your own pace with plenty of hydration/food stops (with candy!). There is a timed "Grand Fondo" event, if you prefer a race. Meet and be ready to ride at 8:00 a.m. at the Lakeville High School to be sure to have plenty of time to enjoy the ride (and the rest stops too).

Register online  |  Register by mail (last two pages of PDF)

Estimated cost: $40. Deposit: $40. Max trip size: unlimited.

David B.

Saturday – Sunday, May 5–6    
Backpacking near Grantsburg Wisconsin. Backpacking along the Bluffs and Bottom lands of the St Croix River South of Grantsburg Wisconsin. This is an easy weekend trip covering 7 miles in two days. Because of the shorter hiking distance involved we can leave the cities in the early afternoon on Saturday, the time and meeting location are not determined yet. This short backpack is a good oppurtunity to introduce your self to backpacking, experienced people are welcome too and an oppurtunity for them to learn a new area to hike close to the cities.

Sponsoring organization: Northstar Sierra Club

Basil L. • 651-774-2640 (evenings)

Thursday – Sunday, May 3–5    
Border Route Trail Mechanized Trail Clearing (using brush cutters and chain saws). “It's fun, it's great exercise, it makes you feel good, and the scenics and camaraderie are unbeatable.” Join us for the annual spring maintenance trip to the Gunflint Section of the nationally acclaimed Border Route Trail.

You'll experience great scenics, camaraderie that can't be beat, excellent food, a chance to see and/or hear wildlife such as eagles, loons, moose, wolves, pine martins, black bears, and fox. Perhaps best of all you'll go home feeling really good about yourself for having helped to keep the Border Route and connecting trails in good condition. It wouldn't happen without our time and dedication.

Prior trail maintenance experience is not a prerequisite, but you should be in good physical condition in order to enjoy the trip. We'll be sleeping in bunkhouse rooms at Gunflint Lodge on Gunflint Lake with next door access to heated restrooms and hot showers.

The Trip fee of $60 includes transportation, lodging, and food from Friday breakfast through Sunday lunch. We’ll stop for food in Duluth or Two Harbors on Thursday and Sunday night.

Register on the Border Route Trail Meetup Group site.

Estimated cost: 60.00. Deposit: 60.00. Max trip size: 15.

Sponsoring organization: Border Route Trail Association

Ed S.

Wednesday, May 2    DAY TRIP / WEEKLY EVENT
Birding Walk at Crosby Farm Regional Park. Late afternoon casual and low key trips to view and talk about birds. We will visit local parks and other areas where birds are often readily observed and include a diversity of species.

Meet at the parking lot at the end of Crosby Farm Road which parallels Shepard Rd. From Rt 5 (aka 7th Street West), just east of the bridge over the Mississippi River (very close to the confluence with the Minnesota River), take the exit onto Gannon Rd which crosses Shepard Road and becomes Crosby Farm Road.
| Google map | trail map |

Estimated cost: $0. Max trip size: Unlimited.

See the Weekly Events page for full schedule, details, and contact info.

Wednesday, May 2    DAY TRIP / CONSERVATION / VOLUNTEER
Pledge to Pull at Crosby Park! Attend a 2-hour training session/pull (6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. at Crosby Park) sponsored by Friends of the Mississippi, where participants learn to identify and remove invasive garlic mustard, thereby protecting the area's wildflowers. Volunteers pledge to return on their own (or with friends) to contribute another six hours—and your friends' hours count! Space is limited and event is expected to fill. Please visit the FMR page for more specifics before signing up to make sure you can commit as needed.

Only one spot left!

Sponsoring organization: Friends of the Mississippi River

Annie S. & Rosie D.

Tuesday, May 1     SEMIANNUAL EVENT
Rovers Spring Intro Show. Find out more about Rovers and/or see what we've been up to lately at the Sprint Intro Show at 7:00 p.m. at REI in Bloomington. Visit the Special Events page for more information.

Kim L.

Weekends in May   
Border Route Trail BWCA Wilderness Trail Clearing. The wilderness sections of the Border Route Trail run above and along several border lakes and provide spectacular overlooks to those lakes. Trail clearing consists of removing brush and downed trees and in the wilderness is done with hand tools: crosscut saws, loppers, and scythes.

Most trips travel up after work on Thursday and return on Sunday. Please note that the Memorial weekend trip leaves on Friday night and returns on Monday. The day after arrival the crew will paddle 2 or 4 miles to a campsite, set up a base camp and start clearing the trail. Trail clearing will continue the next day and the crew will paddle out and return home on the last day. The tax deductible trip fee of $60 includes carpool transportation and food, with the exception of meals on the drive up and back.

All paddling equipment and tools will be provided. A suggested personal gear list will be provided and carpool arrangements developed once registrations start coming in. Registration consists of selecting your trip, answering some basic experience questions, and reading and signing the liability waiver. Fee payment can be made by using Paypal or by sending a check. Please sign up on the Border Route Trail website. Contact Tom Suter if you have questions.

Trip	Dates	Destination	Type	Coordinator
1	May 3–6	McFarland Lake 1	Canoe in	Tom S.
2	May 10–13	Clearwater Lake 1	Canoe in	Tom S.
3	May 17–20	Clearwater Lake 2	Canoe in	Tom S.
4	May 25–28	Clearwater Lake 4	Canoe in	John & Barb T.

Read full trip descriptions and register

Estimated cost: $60

Tom S.

Monday, April 30    DAY TRIP / BEGINNERS WELCOME!
Mountain Biking at Elm Creek. Join us on the single track at Elm Creek at 6:00 p.m. Beginners welcome and needed. I will ride with beginners and give pointers.

Meet at 6:00 p.m. the trail head near the sign, across from the parking lot at 1827 West Hayden lake Road. Bicycle helmets required.

This event will be cancelled if significant rain. Check trail conditions on the Minnesota Off Road Cyclists (MORC) website. You do not need to be a MN Rover to do this day trip!

Estimated cost: $0. Max trip size: unlimited.

Cheryl B.

Sunday, April 29    DAY TRIP
Try Adventure Racing. On April 29th, Minnesota Orienteering Club has their Annual Adventure Race Tune-Up. this is an opportunity to have a fun day and try Adventure Racing, which is a multi-discipline team sport. The race will include 4-mile paddle, 7-mile run/trek, 8–10-mile bike. Any team configuration (from 1–4 persons) will be allowed. This is an informal event, designed like a real adventure race. No prizes and no awards, just great personal satisfaction! This event will be held at Ritter Farm Park, Lakeville, MN. This event is organized by Minnesota Orienteering Club so please check their website for further details, gear requirements, and registration. Use the Yahoo e-group to find team mates. Estimated cost: $40. Deposit: $0.

Sponsoring organization: Minnesota Orienteering Club

Michael M.

Friday – Sunday, April 27–29     VOLUNTEERS NEEDED!
Midwest Mountaineering Outdoor Adventure Expo. With over 120 free presentations on outdoor activities and adventures, and over 100 exhibitors you are sure to find something to get you excited about your next outdoor adventure. The semiannual Outdoor Adventure Expo can help you find your true passion for the outdoors, new sports, places to go, and people to do them with. | directions |

Want to check out our club? Visit the MN Rovers booth in the Exhibitor's Hall to see photos of Rovers in action and meet Rovers who will introduce you to the many benefits of out club.

Kim L.

Friday – Sunday, April 27–29    
Bike and Camp. Nugget Lake County Park is a gem on the rim of Wisconsin's driftless area, just an hour's drive away. We'll camp here and bike loops of up to 60 miles through bluff and coulee country to historic waysides, UFO sites, Lake Pepin, and a 50 mph hill! We'll provide meals, but may eat out for lunch; BYOBev. We have two adjacent and very private campsites reserved (#37 & 38). Showers available at campground. $5 vehicle permit.

Estimated cost: $35. Deposit: $10. Max trip size: 13.

David B. & Julie R.   Trip report

Wednesday, April 25    DAY TRIP / WEEKLY EVENT
Birding Walk at Cedar Road Bridge. Late afternoon casual and low key trips to view and talk about birds. We will visit local parks and other areas where birds are often readily observed and include a diversity of species.

Meet at 6:00 p.m. in the parking lot on the north end of Old Cedar Bridge in Bloomington. This area is also referred to as the Historic Cedar Avenue Minnesota River Crossing and also the Long Meadow Bridge. It can be located by taking E. Old Shakopee Road (aka 24th Ave) in Bloomington either going south from the Mall of America or exiting Cedar Avenue (aka Highway 77).  From the intersection of Cedar Avenue and Old Shakopee Road head southwest (you may think you are going west) to the first stoplight at Old Cedar Ave S.--turn left toward the River. The Bridge and parking lot is about 0.5 mile. We will meet at the parking lot—no, we will not be walking on the bridge; it is closed to all traffic due to safety concerns.

Estimated cost: $0. Max trip size: Unlimited.

Mike S.   Trip report

Monday, April 23   DAY TRIP / BEGINNERS WELCOME
Mountain Biking at Elm Creek. Ride the 8 miles of single track at Elm Creek Park Reserve. Helmets required. Canceled if significant rain recently. Check the trail conditions on the Minnesota Off Road Cyclists (MORC) website. Meet at 6:00 p.m. across the street from the trailhead at the 1827 West Hayden lake Road near the sign. Beginners welcome.

Estimated cost: $0. Max trip size: unlimited.

Cheryl B.   Trip report

Sunday, April 22    DAY TRIP
Volleyball at Lake Calhoun. Come play volleyball at Lake Calhoun at 3:00 p.m.! Please e-mail Amy if you plan to be there.

Estimated cost: $0.

Amy C.

Saturday, April 21    DAY TRIP
Bike Ride in Elm Creek Park. Ride entirely on paved bike trails and enjoy this 14½ mile ride at a moderate pace (12-15 mph). We’ll meet at 2:00 at the Chalet parking lot (12400 James Deane Parkway, Maple Grove, MN 55369), then ride the perimeter of Elm Creek Park along the bike path. You do not need to be a Rover member for this ride, so bring a friend! Bike helmets are required and a pump and patch kit for your bicycle are strongly encouraged. Bring water & snacks as you like. Estimated cost: $0.

Audrey S.   Trip report

Saturday – Sunday, April 21 – 22    
Weekend Canoeing. Weekend canoeing on the Minnesota or Rum Rivers. Leaving Saturday (time TBD) and returning Sunday afternoon. We will paddle approx. 20–25 miles and camp at a DNR or County campsite along the river. Bring your own food, water, and beverages.

Basil L.

Thursday – Sunday, April 19–21    
Day Hiking on the Superior Hiking & Border Route Trails. The scheduled date is based on whether the snow is gone and the Otter and Jackson Lake Roads are functional. This will be a three-day trip with a two-day BRT only option for those not wanting to take Friday off. We'll camp at the McFarland Lake Campground and hike with day packs. Expect a reasonably vigorous pace over rather rugged terrain. In other words, you'll need to be in good physical condition. The benefit to all of this exercise is that you'll experience spectacular scenery on all three days.

The plan is to hike 10 miles of the Superior Hiking Trail from the Arrowhead Trail (Cook Co. 16) through to the Andy Lake Road on Friday. Hike 9 miles of the Border Route Trail from Otter Lake Trailhead through to the McFarland Lake Trailhead on Saturday. And last but not least, 5.3 miles of the BRT from the Otter Lake Trailhead to the Swamp River Trailhead on Sunday.

This trip is organized by and for members of the TC Hiking Meetup Group, the Border Route Trail Meetup Group, and the Minnesota Rovers Outdoors Club.

Registration details can be found on the Border Route Trail Meetup Group

Estimated cost: $35 + transportation. Deposit: $35. Max trip size: 10.

Sponsoring organization: Border Route Trail Association

Ed S.

Thursday, April 19    CANCELED DUE TO RAIN
Mountain Bike Lebanon Hills Regional Park in Eagan. Meet at the sign (by the outhouse) at 6:30 p.m. and ride the mountain bike trails of Lebanon Hills off of Johnny Cake Ridge Road in Eagan, MN. Beginners welcome. Helmets required. This event will be cancelled in case of rain the day before or the day of. Check Minnesota Off Road Cyclists' website for trail conditions ahead of time.

Estimated cost: $0. Max trip size: No limit.

Cheryl B.

Wednesday, April 18    DAY TRIP / WEEKLY EVENT
Birding Walk at Cedar Road Bridge. Weekly trips begin Wednesday April 18 and continue through the major migration period. They are late afternoon casual and low key trips to view and talk about birds. We will visit local parks and other areas where birds are often readily observed and include a diversity of species. (Occasionally, a trip may switch to Thursday, so watch for weekly trip plans)

The first trip will be at Wood Lake Nature Center in Richfield at 6pm (6710 Lake Shore Dr S Richfield, MN 55423).  Basic directions are I35W to W66th Street (=County Rd 53) to Lakeshore Dr. South, on the right (south) side of the road. | map |

Bring binoculars if you have them, a smile for looks, and a friendly attitude. Wear comfortable clothing and boots or shoes for hiking, but try to leave whites and bright clothes at home. Membership in Rovers is not required and beginning birders (or those curious to find out what it's about and who does this type of thing) are welcome.

Estimated cost: $0. Max trip size: Unlimited.

Mike S.   Trip report

Sunday, April 15    DAY TRIP / U45 EVENT
BBQ and Sand Volleyball. Come enjoy some sand volleyball at Lake Calhoun starting at 3:00 p.m. We will also be grilling so bring your own meat and a side to share. If you last name starts with A-E bring salad, F-L veggie or fruit, M-R chips, S-Z dessert. This is an event for folks under 45 to give younger Rovers a leg up and become a more integral and active part of the whole Rovers community. Please e-mail Amy to confirm you are going! Estimated cost: $0.

Amy C. & April O.   Trip report

Saturday – Sunday, April 14–15    DAY TRIP
Saw Training. Chainsaw training on Saturday, 2-person crosscut saw training on Sunday. Course is required by USFS to use these two tools on trail clearing trips. Certificate is valid for two years. Class inside 8:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m., outdoor hands-on 1:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. at Bunker Hills Regional Park (south entrance).

Estimated cost: Free + $5/day park entrance fee. Max trip size: 25.

John E.

Saturday – Sunday, April 14–15    
Weekend Canoeing/Camping. Weekend canoeing on the Minnesota River west of Mankato. We will paddle about 20 miles and camp on the river. Leave Saturday at 7:00 a.m. and return Sunday in the afternoon. Bring your own meals, water and beverages. There will be time to relax, so bring a lawn chair.

Estimated cost: Your own meals Deposit: $0. Max trip size: open.

Basil L.

Saturday, April 14     DAY TRIP / VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITY
St. Paul Spring Parks Cleanup. The Rovers will again help The Friends of Henry Park with buckthorn removal. The Rovers have been assisting with this project for over 5 years. It's always a lot of fun, and the Friends really appreciate our efforts. We will meet at Henry Park in St Paul at 8:30 a.m. Wear your work clothes, and bring protective eyewear/sunglasses and work gloves. Some supplies may be available. Henry Park is located between Skyway Drive and Ogden Street in St. Paul, Minnesota. Currently, the best access is from 2120 Skyway Drive (just south of Battle Creek Regional Park on the Mississippi River bluff.) Please e-mail Annie to sign up.

Annie S.   Trip report

Sunday, April 8    DAY TRIP
Chain Saw & Brush-Cutter Safety, Familiarization, and Practice Course. This will give you a heads up for the USFS Saw Certification and the upcoming trail maintenance trips on the BRT. You’ll experience excellent scenery, good food, camaraderie that can’t be beat, and the chance to learn a valuable life skill. After all, you never know when you might be driving down a back road and find a dead-fall blocking your path.

We’ll meet at the Sun Ray Shopping Center, 2165 Hudson Road East, St. Paul and depart at 10:00 a.m. sharp for the 60-mile van-pool ride to Plum City, WI. where we have access to a plot of wooded land a bit north of town which provides an ideal practice site. You can expect to get back to St. Paul by dark but we may take a day hike to Nugget Lake County Park afterwards and/or stop for a bite to eat so keep your evening schedule flexible.

The van-pool, lunch, safety gear, and all equipment will be arranged by the BRTA. There will be no charge for those signed up for one of the May Border Route Trail Maintenance trips. Others will be charged $5.00 to help defray fuel and lunch expenses.

In order to get a heads up on safe chain saw operation we suggest that you download a copy of the USFS Chain Saw and Crosscut Saw Training Course Student’s Guidebook.

Estimated cost: $5.00. Max trip size: 12.

More details on the BRT Meetup Group

Sponsoring organization: Border Route Trail Association

Ed S.

Saturday – Sunday, April 7–8
Weekend Paddling. Weekend paddling for canoes and kayaks on the Minnesota River west of Mankato. Leave the cities on Saturday morning at 7:00 a.m. and return on Sunday afternoon. We will paddle about twenty miles in two days and camp on a DNR river campsite. Bring your own meals, beverges, and drinking water. Only costs are driving expenses.

Sponsoring organization: Joint outing with the North Star Sierra Club

Basil L.

Friday – Saturday, April 6–7    
Camp With Wolves! Ever wanted to howl at the full moon? Ever wanted to howl with a pack of wolves? We can do just that on an overnight at the Wildlife Science Center (WSC), less than an hour north of the Twin Cities in Columbus. This is a great opportunity for anyone with an interest in Minnesota wildlife, photographers or families to learn more about the predators in our state. We’ll spend the night in the safety of the common area, while surrounded by as many as 43 wolves and other wildlife (kept in secure enclosures). Naturalists will introduce us to the wolves, bears, mountain lions, lynx, raptors and other wildlife that live at the WSC. We’ll have a bonfire in the evening and sleep in tents (or on the floor of the Visitors Center where there are flush toilets). We’ll cook our own BYOB: Bring Your Own Breakfast in the morning, then have another presentation by the WSC naturalists. We’ll depart after the presentation in the morning. WSC staff will be with us at all times during this event. Family members are welcome at this event. More information will follow as the date gets closer.

Estimated cost: $25. Deposit: $25.

Audrey S.   Trip report

Tuesday, April 3   SOCIAL EVENT
First Tuesday Social. On the first Tuesday of each month, we're having a special event to engage new and younger club members. The goal of this event is to encourage all Rovers, young and seasoned, new and not so new, to join each other for the program and socializing at the bar after the meeting. This is an evening where you can count on people going to the meeting and/or bar. This ongoing event takes place the first Tuesday of every month during the regular meeting and bar time. The meetings are located at Macalester College in St. Paul and the bar is Billy's on Grand.

Amy C.  |  Carissa M.

Sunday, April 1    DAY TRIP
Kayak the Mississippi on April 1st. No Joke! Come join me on and paddle the Mississippi backwaters. Can you believe the water temp is already 58 degrees, no April Fool's joke! We will paddle around the lower island of Grey Cloud. Almost the whole trip will be in back channels. This means shallow water, little current and good bird sighting. There will be a working barge terminal, eagle nests, and an abandoned dock to lunch on. We will leave from the levy at 10:30 a.m. Carpool if possible, parking is limited. If you are coming and have an extra boat let me know and I will try and pair you up with a boatless paddler. Google map: Mississippi National River and Recreation Area, Cottage Grove, MN 55016.

Estimated cost: $0.

John G.

Saturday – Sunday, March 31 – April 1    
Weekend Canoeing/Kayaking. Two days of canoeing on the Rum Rver south of Princeton, about 60 miles north of the cities. We will leave the cities about 7:00 a.m. on Saturday and return Sunday afternoon. The plan is to paddle 15 to 20 miles and camp at a DNR campsite on the river. Bring your own food beverages and water, only group expense is sharing transportation costs.

Basil L.

Friday, March 30 – Monday, April 16    
Trekking & Touring Bhutan. This is my third trip to Bhutan and second trek of 5-6 days. We visit Merek-Saktang, the Yeti trails with the Brokpa people, nomadic yakherders and a wildlife sanctuary. It has been closed by the government for 30 years. Bhutan is truly the last Himalayan Shangri-La, and the balance of the time we visit dzongs, temples and other cultural sites traveling East from Trashigang, through Bumthang, Punahka, Thimphu and Paro. I am 62 and the trek is quite manageable for me. Pack ponies are used and the guides all speak English. Come join me for the trip of a lifetime!!! Estimated cost: $3,270/person. Deposit: $200. Max trip size: 8 people.

Sponsoring organization: Windhorse Tours

Cindy JS.

Thursday, March 29    DAY TRIP / SOCIAL EVENT
Summer’s Coming! Meet the Minnesota Rovers — Then Join Us Outdoors!. Summer is just around the corner, and there is no better time to start planning your summer getaways! The Minnesota Rovers, a Twin Cities-based outdoor recreation club, organizes low-cost opportunities for you to play outside -- locally, regionally, and more. Activities include climbing, paddling, backpacking, camping, biking, and hiking in warmer months and skiing, snowshoeing, snowboarding, and winter camping in the winter months. See a slide show of recent activities, hear about our summer plans, and pick our brains about places you'd like to explore.

7:00 p.m. in the Expedition Room of Midwest Mountaineering. (Midwest Mountaineering validates parking in the lot behind the store.)

This is also a Discount Day at Midwest Mountaineering. 15% Discount Cards will be available at the talk or at our weekly Tuesday meetings!

Members, bring a friend and be one of the first to see the newest slide show! Then stay to talk with visitors after the show. Please contact Kim L. if you can help out!

Kim L.

Monday, March 26    DAY TRIP
The North Country Trail, What's New in MN, ND, and WI. Join us at Midwest Mountaineering, 309 Cedar, Mpls, to learn more about the development of the North Country National Scenic Trail (NCT) in our Upper Midwest area. Significant strides forward have occurred in the last couple of years on connecting this 4,600-mile long hiking trail and more strides will be made in 2012 thanks to our amazing volunteers. Specifics include the Arrowhead Re-route legislative effort (which would include the Superior Hiking Trail, Border Route Trail, and Kekekabic Trail as part of the NCT's route); a significant trail improvement program within the Chippewa National Forest in north-central Minnesota; and new trail development projects in southeastern North Dakota, northwestern Minnesota, and in northern Wisconsin. Presented by Matt Davis, NCTA Regional Trail Coordinator for MN & ND. Stick around after the presentation for a meeting of the North Country Trail Association's Twin Cities-based Star of the North Chapter.

Register on the BRT Meetup Group

Sponsoring organizations: North Country Trail Association & Border Route Trail Association

Ed S.

Friday – Sunday, March 23–25    
Advanced Wilderness First Aid Class. 16-hour, Advanced Wilderness First Aid (WFA) course with CPR certification at the Gander Mountain Store in Blaine, MN. Designed for anyone who recreates in the outdoors, with or without any prior training.

March 23: 6:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.
March 24: 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
March 25: 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.

Application Deadline: March 2, 2012

National certification will be awarded through the AAOS-Emergency Care and Safety Institute to those who successfully complete the class and practical sessions, and pass the written examination. We will be using the third edition of "Wilderness First Aid" by the Wilderness Medical Society, as our textbook for this class. 

See application for cost structure. Rovers members are eligible for a $15 discount, plus possible rebates (details below). Price includes the textbook and classroom/field training materials.

You must send full payment as directed by Backcountry Trail Patrol, rebates only offered upon completion of course. $40 rebate available from Rovers if you were a Rover in the last year, and/or $40 from Border Route Trail Association if you went on a trail clearing trip in the past two years. Contact John Elliot if you are interested in the rebate program.

Cosponsoring organization (and more details):
Backcountry Trail Patrol & Emergicare Medical Training

John E.

Saturday – Sunday, March 24–25    
Lake Carlos State Park: Woodcock Viewing and Biking. Leave early Saturday to check out the Central Lakes State Trail, a 55-mile, paved bike route, which we can pick up ten miles south of the park in Alexandria. Cycling will be all levels with stops in towns, maybe for lunch or a beer.

Saturday evening we will join naturalist Alex Watson to hopefully catch some birds in action. Program info from the website: "American Woodcock: Sky Dance Viewing. The American Woodcock, also known as the Timberdoodler, has returned to Central Minnesota to find a mate and nest. Join a naturalist as we view the birds' enchanting courtship display called the Sky Dance that takes them 300 feet into the air."

Price is for camper cabin lodging ($50 + reservation fee total). Food will be on your own with an optional communal pancake breakfast Sunday. I'd love to include one brand-spanking new Rover, so if this would be your first overnight trip, let me know!! Return will be later on Sunday to allow for more cycling.

Estimated cost: camper cabin + food, gas, stickers as needed. Deposit: $10. Max trip size: 4-6 depending on bunk sharing.

Annie S.

Saturday, March 17    DAY TRIP
MN Landscape Arboretum. Join me for a power walk in the MN Landscape Arboretum. I will be doing the 3-mile trail meeting at the Visitor Center 10:00 a.m. The Mill City Farmers Market is hosting their winter market at the Arboretum from 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m, so feel free to explore the gardens, acres of trails, greehouses, and the farmers market after our walk. Admission is 2 for 1’s, I can e-mail you a voucher.

Estimated cost: $9 for daily entry, or for 2 people $9 (with voucher).

Kyra S.

Saturday – Saturday, March 17–24      SORRY, THIS TRIP IS FULL, WAIT LIST OPEN  
Desert Adventure. Backpack in the Anza Borrego Desert, a 500,000 acre desert park with palm oases, year-round water, abundant wildlife, and archaeology. Prior backpack experience, broken in tough hiking boots, and hiking poles required. Be able to carry all your gear plus at least 1 gallon of water. No trails: we'll be using map and compass over sometimes rough and prickly, (but beautiful!) terrain. CURRENTLY airfare is cheapest into Phoenix: 365$ roundtrip Pre trip meeting to discuss details and simultaneously purchase airfare is very important. If you are on facebook, I have many photo albums from past trips that I have made public. Also a wonderful web site about Anza Borrego: http://www.abdnha.org/

Estimated cost: $600. Deposit: $100. Max trip size: 4.

Elisha P.

Saturday, March 17     DAY TRIP
Native Wildflower Hunting for Explorers. Have you hiked past Bear Lake on the Superior Hiking Trail? Ever kayaked to islands off of Grand Marais? Do you like checking out caves in southeast Minnesota? Did you know you may have trekked right past the only recorded location of one of Minnesota's rare plant species! If you searched it out and snapped a photo, even just on your everyday point and shoot, you could make a great contribution to MN plant knowledge base!

If you regularly get out and explore this great state, you'd make a perfect candidate to help catalog all of the 2,100+ Minnesota plant species for a public online field guide. This venture involves traveling to expected areas in search of elusive species in their time of bloom and taking photos of specimens. To learn more about how to find rapidly disappearing plants and what you can do to help, please attend an informational meeting. We'll get a chance to see resources available, learn where to look, get some tips on getting the right photos, and meet other flower enthusiasts.

This meeting is in conjunction with TC Hiking Meetup, and there will be future outings where we can practice our flower hunting skills. Watch for a trip to Banning State Park in May! We'll meet in New Brighton at 10:00, near 694 and Long Lake Road. When you sign up, I'll send out the address. If you have a PowerPoint projector you can bring, please let me know.

Estimated cost: $0. Max trip size: 12.

Annie S.

Saturday – Sunday, March 10–11    BEGINNERS WELCOME!
Beginner Winter Camping. Beginner Winter Camping at a state park on the North Shore. The trip will depend on the weather, if the temperature is above 32 degrees and rain is predicted the trip will be on the following weekend. At this point we will leave the cities on Saturday at 6:00 a.m. and return Sunday evening. We will camp at either Gooseberry or Split Rock State Parks. Its a nice time to winter camp with generally milder temperatures and more daylight. This is a car camp so you can bring extra clothes and camping gear to spend your first wintercamping night out comfortably. Have a ski pass that you purchase in the cities ahead of time. I can help you with clothing and equipment choices, call for additional details.

Estimated cost: share transportation & camping expenses. Deposit: no deposit. Max trip size: open.

Basil L. • 651-774-2640 (evenings only)

Friday – Sunday, March 9–11    
Basic Wilderness First Aid Class. 16-hour, Basic Wilderness First Aid (WFA) course at the Gander Mountain Store in Blaine, MN. The Basic (and Advanced) Wilderness First Aid classes are designed for anyone who recreates in the outdoors, with or without any prior training.

March 9: 6:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.
March 10: 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
March 11: 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.

Application Deadline: March 2, 2012

The cost is $130 ($200 for basic and advanced). Rovers members are eligible for a $15 discount, plus possible rebates (details below). Price includes the textbook and classroom/field training materials.

You must send full payment as directed by Backcountry Trail Patrol, rebates only offered upon completion of course. $40 rebate available from Rovers if you were a Rover in the last year, and/or $40 from Border Route Trail Association if you went on a trail clearing trip in the past two years. Contact John Elliot if you are interested in the rebate program.

Cosponsoring organization (and more details):
Backcountry Trail Patrol & Emergicare Medical Training

John E.

Tuesday, March 6    DAY TRIP
First Tuesday Social. On the first Tuesday of each month, we're having a special event to engage new and younger club members. The goal of this event is to encourage all Rovers, young and seasoned, new and not so new, to join each other for the program and socializing at the bar after the meeting. This is an evening where you can count on people going to the meeting and/or bar. This ongoing event takes place the first Tuesday of every month during the regular meeting and bar time. The meetings are located at Macalester College in St. Paul and the bar is Billy's on Grand. Feel free to attend just the meeting, the bar, or both. Program Details: Camino de Santiago.

Amy & Carissa

Sunday, March 4     DAY TRIP
Ice Skating at the Depot. Join us for ice skating at the Depot in Minneapolis from 2:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. This is a family-friendly activity and a great way to have fun and be active at the same time.

Estimated cost: $8.00 for skating, $7.00 for rental. Max trip size: 15.

Mary K.

Friday – Sunday, March 2–4  
Skiing, Snowshoeing, and other fun at Deep Portage Environmental Learning Center! This is a pleasant and inexpensive weekend! Come to Deep Portage Environmental Learning Center in Hackensack (north of Brainerd) for winter fun! Deep Portage’s 54,000 sq ft Heritage Center has two great halls, a climbing wall, and library. Delicious home cooked meals are provided buffet style.

Activities include skiing (11 miles of groomed trails for traditional cross-country), snowshoeing, ice fishing (you just need your license), climbing wall, stargazing, reading or socializing by the fireplace with a glass of wine, enjoying the outdoor campfire ring. Ski equipment or snowshoes available for $10 for the weekend. Other nearby ski trails: Hiram Ski Trail and Goose Lake Trail (in Chippewa National Forest).

What if there isn’t enough snow to ski or snowshoe? Possible options may include wilderness orienteering course, geocaching, tomahawk or atlatl throwing, cultural history, and hikes (including to the tower or animal ecology hikes). And that’s in addition to the general camaraderie and inventiveness of the Rovers — who always find something to do.

Dorm-style rooms (with bunks) have their own bathroom with shower and sink area. (Four or so people in each room.) $115 for weekend includes Friday and Saturday night’s lodging, activities, and five meals (breakfast and lunch on Saturday and Sunday and Saturday dinner). $80 for 12 and above, $50 for 5 to 11, and no charge for toddlers.  $10 ski rental for the weekend, $10 snowshoe rental for the weekend. 

$60 deposit will be due in early February. Remainder due weekend of event. Carpooling to be arranged closer to the event.

Estimated cost: $115. Deposit: $60.

Stacey G.   Trip report

Friday, March 2    DAY TRIP
Snow Tubing at Elm Creek. Meet at the Chalet around 6:30 to get tickets, get bundled up, etc. We'll head out about 7:00 p.m. for 2 hours of tubing on Elm Creek's 10-story tall hill. There is a moving sidewalk to take you back up the hill for your next ride.

Estimated cost: $12.

Jane P.

Thursday – Sunday, March 1–4   
XC Skiing & Snowshoeing at Heston's on Gunflint Lake. We welcome you to join us on the annual early March trip to Heston's Lodge on Gunflint Lake for three days of excellent XC Skiing and Backcountry Snowshoeing. You'll enjoy excellent trails, some of the most spectacular scenery in the Midwest, great food, camaraderie that can't be beat, plus the best sauna on the lake. We have Diamond Willow, Spruce and Tamarack cabins reserved. Transportation will be via car-pool. Leave Thursday after work, return Sunday evening.

Estimated cost of $185-$195 includes Lodging plus meals from Friday breakfast to Sunday lunch. Actual cost may vary to some extent dependent upon the actual cost of food. Transportation via car-pool will be in addition with payment made to the owner of the car.

Those that have participated in trail maintenance trips during 2012 are normally exempt from paying for the Upper Gunflint Ski Pass. A $100 deposit is required to hold your spot.

Please check the Border Route Trail Meetup site for space availability. You may sign up and pay via PayPal on the meetup site or write a check post dated to February 15th, 2012, made out to Ed Solstad, and mailed to John Elliott, 5904 Lee Valley Rd, Edina, MN 55439. Another $85 will be due on Feb. 20th with the remaining amount due or over paid to be settled up by 3/11/12. You need to be in reasonably good physical condition to join this trip. For further information, please contact Ed via email or talk with John Elliott.

Estimated cost: $185 to $195 + Trans. Deposit: $100. Max trip size: 17.

Sponsoring organization: Border Route Trail association

Ed S. & John E.

Sunday – Saturday, February 26 – March 3   
Ski Mammoth & June Mountains in California. Over 4,000 acres for all DH ski abilities as well as XC skiing. The trip includes round-trip airfare, motor coach transfers to/from Mammoth Mountain, five nights ski in/out lodging (4 per 2-BR/2-bath condos at the Juniper Springs Lodge at the Eagle Base, one night in Reno before the return flight to MSP, and pre-trip party, opening party and a post party. Bulk lift tickets are extra and available for about $50 per day. Sign up and payment due January 3, 2012. Estimated cost: $1,380. Deposit: Contact Fred. Max trip size: 20 (6 spots currently open).

Sponsoring organization: Phloatin Activities

Fred F.

Sunday, February 26    DAY TRIP
Ice Climbing at Sandstone, MN. Join us for a day of ice climbing in Sandstone, MN! We will be climbing roughly from 11:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. We prefer if you have ice climbed before, but will take beginners on a case-by-case basis. You must bring ice climbing gear for your use (harness, mountaineering boots, crampons, ice axes) or coordinate with someone else on the trip to share gear. Bring drinks and snacks for yourself. Please e-mail Sarah to ask questions, RSVP, and get further details.

Estimated cost: gas. Max trip size: Unlimited.

Sarah K. & Kyra S.

Saturday – Saturday, February 25 – March 3    
Windsurfing at Padre Island, TX‏. Padre Island is the best place for windsurfing of USA. A shallow saltwater lagoon with a sand bottom and unobstructed wind, the Laguna is the perfect teaching classroom and a favorite location for sailors of all levels. We'll stay on oceanfront campground, rent gears for windsurfing, kayaking or stand-up paddling. Beginners are welcome. The schedule is a little flexible depending on airfare. View the Padre Island website for more information.

Estimated cost: $800. Max trip size: 6.

Jerry L.

Friday – Sunday, February 24–26    
Third Annual Spirit-Munger Trip. New Rovers, beginners and all levels welcome. Fun, casual winter weekend trip in Duluth area with options to downhill ski/snowboard at Spirit Mountain and cross-country ski at Willard Munger State trail, Superior Hiking Trail, or other nearby trails. We'll stay in the Historic Willard Munger Inn, including the Fireplace room, relax, play games or music and otherwise socialize when we come in from outside. Trip cost includes 2 nights lodging, 2 breakfasts at the Munger, and Rover family style dinner Saturday night. Munger Inn also offers discounted lift tickets for downhill skiing.

Estimated cost: $45-$60. Deposit: $35. Max trip size: 14.

Cari G. & Kathy E.

Thursday – Sunday, February 23–26      SORRY, THIS TRIP IS FULL, WAIT LIST OPEN  
Downhill Skiing and Snowoarding. A three-day weekend of skiing and boarding at Lutsen, overlooking Lake Superior. Includes lodging Thursday through Saturday nights, lift tickets for Friday through Sunday, generous continental breakfasts, whirlpool, sauna. Staying in Lutsen Mountain Inn, at the foot of the mountain. Free shuttle buses take us the 1/4 mile to the chairlifts and gondola. We'll have lunches on the slopes, evening dining out. Some experience necessary.

Estimated cost: $250. Deposit: $250. Max trip size: 8.

Norm S. & Barb S.

Wednesday, February 15, 7:00 p.m.     DAY TRIP  
Saturday, February 18, 10:00 a.m.   
Flower Power * Volunteer Project‏. Want to get involved in a worthwhile ongoing project? Lend a hand to Minnesota Wildflowers as they attempt to catalog all of the 2,100+ Minnesota plant species for a public online field guide. This venture involves traveling to expected areas in search of elusive species in their time of bloom and documenting specimens...some before they disappear.

This opportunity will quickly increase your knowledge of Minnesota plants, lead you to diverse and unique habitats, and supply you with tips for challenging photography situations.

Please join us for one of two informational meetings as the flower-hunting addicts from MN Wildflowers explain what you can do to contribute. Even if you can't actively participate just now, attendance is highly encouraged, as this is long-range undertaking is perfect for those who love exploring our state. E-mail me to sign up!

Annie S.

Saturday – Sunday, February 11–12      SORRY, THIS TRIP IS FULL, WAIT LIST OPEN  
Second Annual Duluth Winter Triathlon. Not your regular triathlon—instead we will participate in 3 grueling events of skiing/boarding, bar crawling, and indoor rock climbing! Drive up Saturday morning to ski/board at Spirit Mountain. Enjoy the nightlife in Duluth and stay at a downtown hotel. After breakfast Sunday, climb at Vertical Endeavors Duluth, then head back to the Twin Cities by early evening. Lodging is $20–$30 per person, lift tickets $42, VE admission $10. Rentals and gas extra, discounts may be available.

Estimated cost: $100. Deposit: $30. Max trip size: 16.

Jane P.

Monday – Sunday, February 6–12     REGISTRATION CLOSED
Dogsledding & Winter Camping in the BWCAW. Ready? Hike! Were you bitten by the dogsledding bug last winter? Are you ready for more dogsledding? Travel the Boundary Waters Canoe Area by dogsled, camp by firelight, and enjoy one of the most popular areas in Minnesota free of crowds, bugs, and bears. This trip will be arranged through Wintergreen Dogsled Lodge, owned and operated by famed polar explorer Paul Schurke. We’ll spend Monday night at the Wintergreen Lodge on White Iron Lake, then set off for a guided adventure in the BWCA in one or two groups with two Wintergreen guides, two freighter sleds and dog teams per group. We’ll spend four nights on trail, then return either to the Wintergreen Lodge or another Ely area lodge (frequently Timber Trail on Farm Lake) on Saturday where an optional sauna and plunge in the lake await. An optional outing to the International Wolf Center can also be arranged, free of charge.

All personal and group gear is included: skis, snowshoes, polar sleeping bags and bivy sacs, tents, meals, even water bottles, bowls and silverware! All you need to bring is your winter clothing and boots. Even boots and winter outerwear can be rented from Wintergreen Designs in Ely.

All meals and snacks are included. Wintergreen Lodge boasts 5-star French chef Bernard Hermann for lodge meals, and trail meals are prepared by wonderful Wintergreen guides. With advance notice, special diets are easily accomodated.

Cost: $1,075. Deposit: $100. Max trip size: 12, 10 remaining (minimum 4). REGISTRATION CLOSED OCTOBER 1.

Audrey S.   Trip report

Tuesday, February 7    DAY TRIP / SOCIAL EVENT
First Tuesday Rover's Social (Associated with Regular Meeting & Bar). On the first Tuesday of each month, we're having a special event to engage new and younger club members. The goal of this event is to encourage all Rovers, young and seasoned, new and not so new, to join each other for the program and socializing at the bar after the meeting. This is an evening where you can count on people going to the meeting and/or bar. This ongoing event takes place the first Tuesday of every month during the regular meeting and bar time. The meetings are located at Macalester College in St. Paul and the bar is Billy's on Grand. Feel free to attend just the meeting, the bar, or both. Check the programs schedule for details of the program.

Melissa H. & April O.

Sunday, February, 5     DAY TRIP OR OTHER INFO HERE
Downhill Skiing at Welch. More interested in riding the back bowl than watching the Super Bowl? You're not alone and the slopes will have fewer people. Meet to carpool from the Twin Cities at 11, or meet us there at 12. Potluck dinner with option of grilling if people are interested. Please coordinate before Saturday if interested in joining us.

Melissa H. & Amy C.

Saturday, February 4     DAY (NIGHT) TRIP
Moonlight Snowshoe Afton State Park. Enjoy a refreshing walk or snowshoe trek in the moonlight along a trail lit by candlelight (6:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.). Refreshments will be served at the visitor center. The park has a limited number of snowshoes available for rent by advance reservation. Approximately a three-mile hike with a bonfire in the middle.

Directions to Afton State Park: From St. Paul, go 9 miles east on I-94, then 7 miles south on Highway 95 and three miles east on County Road 20. Meet at visitor center at 6:00 p.m. (I'll have a Rovers sign) and sign in with the Rovers, then have fun.

Estimated cost: state park pass.

Les T.

Friday – Sunday or Monday, February 3–5 or 6     SORRY, THIS TRIP IS FULL, WAIT LIST OPEN  
Cross Country Skiing/Snowshoeing in Bayfield, WI. Join us for 2 or 3 days of cross country skiing and/or snowshoeing, watch the start of a dog sled race, and if Lake Superior is frozen we will go to the ice caves and drive out to Madeline Island. We are in an old bed and breakfast (which has a 4-person sauna) that Seagull Bay Motel bought. It overlooks Lake Superior and you can snowshoe from the motel. There are also five motel rooms that we will be occupying. We have the option of staying an extra night (Sunday, Feb. 5 for the Super Bowl). It's a fun trip that fills up fast!

Estimated cost: $65 (Fri. - Sun.) or $90 (Fri. - Mon) + gas (each car takes care of the cost; encourage to car pool) + 3 meals (lunch and supper on Friday and a meal on the way home). Deposit: $50 (you lose your deposit if you back out of the trip after Jan. 16, 2012). Max trip size: 24.

Frank T.   Trip report

Thursday – Sunday, January 26–29      
Cross-Country Skiing, Downhill Skiing, and Snowshoeing at Giant's Ridge. 60k of scenic, well-groomed cross-country ski trails weave through the Superior National Forest at Giants Ridge. There is also great downhill skiing and snowshoeing. We will be staying 3 nights at the Sports Dorm, where we have reserved 4 rooms, each with 2 bunk-beds. It has a limited kitchen facility, where we will make our own breakfasts (i.e., oatmeal or cereal), sack lunches, and crock-pot dinners. One evening, we will plan on going out for dinner at the resort or in Biwabik, just a few minutes away.

Estimated cost: $100 + dinner out, ski passes, and transportation. Deposit: $70. Max trip size: 16.

Jodi & Scott S.   Trip report

Saturday, January 21    DAY TRIP
Snowshoes and Trumpeter Swans. Explore Lake Maria State Park and Sherburne National Wildlife Refuge, about 55 miles north of the Cities, by snowshoe. We will meet in the morning with our snowshoes to carpool or caravan and arrive at Sherburne midmorning. We’ll snowshoe (on and off trail) and then break for lunch and to warm up in nearby Monticello. After lunch, we’ll check out a nearby site where wintering Trumpeter Swans concentrate. (Read Beth Gauper’s story about them.) If there is time, we’ll stop at nearby Lake Maria State Park (where snowshoeing is allowed anywhere except on groomed ski trails) before heading home later in the afternoon. Never snowshoed? This will be a nice way to try it. Rovers members can borrow snowshoes from the Rovers "cage." Or we can suggest where to rent them. Day trips are open to non-members, and you are invited to join us! (Note: Cross-country skiing is also an option. Trails NOT groomed at Sherburne. Lake Maria has 14 miles of trails — some beginner, mostly intermediate — for traditional cross-country and 2 miles groomed for skate-skiing.) Estimated cost: Gas + lunch ($15.00?); state park sticker, if necessary. Deposit: $0. Max trip size: 15.

Stacey G. & Michael S.

Friday – Monday, January 13–16    SORRY, THIS TRIP IS FULL, WAIT LIST OPEN  
Itasca Hostel MLK Weekend. Enjoy three nights lodging and seven meals (Sat. breakfast through Monday breakfast) at the awesome Mississippi Headwaters Hostel in Itasca State Park. Ski, snowshoe, hike the groomed trails in the park, share evening games, conversation or relaxing by the fireplace with a good book. Park sticker and ski pass required are available at the visitor center. This is a very popular trip and will fill quickly!

Estimated cost: $98. Deposit: $70 ($35 is non-refundable). Max trip size: 31.

Barb S. & Shelly G.

Friday – Monday, January 13–16   
Cross-Country Skiing and Snowshoeing. Three nights at the National Forest Lodge (NFL) within the Superior National Forest near Isabella, MN on the North Shore of Lake Superior. Sleep in log cabins (2–10 capacity each) all meals served in lodge. 30km groomed, single-track XC ski trails & 5 miles marked showshoe trails. Potential kite-boarding opportunity (must bring your own snow board or downhill skis). Sledding hill, outdoor hot tub, lakeside sauna, and "polar plunge" opportunity in hole in the ice. Live music Saturday evening. Must provide your own bedding/linens — see link to National Forest Lodge for bed size, area maps, etc.

Estimated cost: $207 rustic or $272 at modern cabin. Deposit: $50. Max trip size: 40.

Rob & Lori C.   Trip report

Friday – Monday, January 13–16    
BWCAW Winter Camping. We will gather at the Gander Mountain parking lot in Forest Lake at around 6:00 a.m. Friday, departing for Angleworm Lake north of Ely. This is typically one of the coldest weekends of the winter, so you will need to be prepared to camp in cold weather. 40 below is common during this time of year. We will be snowshoeing in and camping on the lake pulling our own gear and food on sleds. Estimated cost: $50 for gas. Max trip size: 4.

Patrick E.   Trip report

Saturday – Sunday, January 7–8    
Wilderness First Aid in Duluth. Have you ever watched someone cut a chunk of their finger off with a hatchet? Falling off your bicycle on a remote trail? Or saw someone fall through two sheets of glass, only to be 150 miles from the nearest hospital? Well I have, and its time I get some more knowledge on what to do when the next injury happens to me or in front of me. This 16-hour first aid course is for those who work, live or play in remote areas — away from the usual EMS service.

Basic first aid skills are covered, as well as wilderness specific treatments. Participants must possess current certification in Adult Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation/Automated External Defibrillator (CPR/AED) through the Red Cross or an equivalent course. (I am registered for mine Dec. 17th and their are more dates available as well for $55). Topics covered include: wounds, head and spinal injuries, extremity injuries, heat related injuries and hypothermia, sudden illnesses, major bites and stings, and other types of backcountry miseries.

Estimated cost: $100 plus transporation and lodging. Deposit: $100 to register for the course. Max trip size: open.

Sponsoring organization: Boulder Lake Enviromental Center

Kyra S.

Saturday, January 7    DAY TRIP / VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITY
Winter Trails Day. Help others experience the joy of winter by volunteering at the 17th Annual Winter Trails Day at Fort Snelling State Park! Minnesota Rovers will once again assist REI and Fort Snelling staff with free activities that showcase how much fun winter can be! In the past, we’ve been crucial in helping visitors with snowshoes. Other activities will include geocaching, naturalist-led hikes, cold weather camping information, and skijoring & dogsledding information. After you’re done helping, enter a sweepstakes to win a new pair of snowshoes, enjoy a big bonfire, sip hot cocoa and enjoy winter!

If there is interest, we’ll hike or snowshoe after the event is over. Snowshoers can go anywhere in park except on groomed trails and there are 9 miles of packed trails for hiking.

The event will run from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., but you may volunteer for just part of that time. If you can help, please contact Stacey for more details. Estimated cost: $0.

Stacey G.

Saturday, January 7     DAY TRIP
Potluck after Winter Trails Day Event. In conjunction with "Winter Trails Day" (above), I will be hosting a potluck immediately afterward for those who volunteer for the event. The event ends at 3:00 p.m., so it will be a late lunch, or early supper. I will have some kind of entree, please let me know if you plan on attending, so I can plan accordingly.

Estimated cost: Cost of your potluck contribution. Deposit: $0. Max trip size: open.

Jim M.

Tuesday, January 3    SOCIAL EVENT
First Tuesday Rover's Social. Come join us if you're in town! On the first Tuesday of each month (during the regular meeting and bar time), we're having a special event to engage new and younger club members. The goal of this event is to encourage all Rovers, young and seasoned, new and not so new, to join each other for a program and socializing at the bar after the meeting. This is an evening where you can count on people going to the meeting and/or bar. This ongoing event takes place the first Tuesday of every month during the regular meeting and bar time. The meetings are located at Macalester College in St. Paul and the bar is Billy's on Grand. Feel free to attend just the meeting, the bar, or both. Check the programs schedule for details of the program.

April O. & Melissa H.