Wonderful Weekend Getaway at Cascade

Those of us who ventured up to Cascade Lodge this weekend for the Nordic Walking Weekend Getaway were warmly welcomed by Mother Nature. Last year at this time the first snows had already fallen in Lutsen, but this weekend was bright and sunny with temps in the 60s – absolutely perfect walking weather! Just as perfect were the participants – Karen, Terri and Barb – who joyfully embraced the walking, the shopping (in Grand Marais), and along with my husband Mike, provided delightful company throughout the weekend.

Friday night we enjoyed dinner together at Cascade Restaurant, amongst people who all seemed to know eachother. We soon found out they were there for a wedding rehearsal dinner, so we played our own small part in adding to the festivities After a new class I’ve developed on using strength and relaxation in walking, we set off on our first walk, followed by one later in the afternoon, and another on Sunday morning. All in all we walked about 10 miles – through the woods, along the shore, and up to one of the highest points above Grand Marais. Being based near the Cascade River, we were able to take in the many waterfalls along its course, as well as the lovely trail running along the lake. Grand Marais itself was bustling with late season tourists (and their dogs) on Saturday afternoon, and we all spent some enjoyable hours browsing in Ben Franklin, the Trading Post, and other shops.

At our party in the cozy lounge of Cascade Lodge on Saturday night we were treated to an interesting presentation by Michael O’Phelan, the owner of the lodge, about the lodge and area throughout the seasons. Later we sampled videos of Nordic walking from around the world. (Did you know there is a Nordic walking song in Germany?!)

One highlight for me occurred as I was returning alone along a trail after double checking a route on Friday. As I walked near the shore, a mink came trotting toward me, with a fish as large as she was in her mouth. She came to within 2 feet of me, then stopped. Sniffing the air, then dropping her fish, she approached to smell my shoes. Since I had my camera around my neck, I thought I’d try to snap her photo. Sensing my movement she ran into the woods, but after a little while she returned to retrieve her fish, then turned around to pursue an alternate route!

What a way to enjoy these last precious days of fall before the frost sets in! My deepest thanks to everyone who came this weekend for a wonderful time and one that I will always treasure.

Advertisement