microlife

 I had a great time seeing all the small things growing along trails and roads and snapping a quick pic. Life is all around you, often times hiding in plain view. Take the time to check it out once in a while too...

 

Teeny red mushroom. I didn't eat it... everyone knows bright colors in nature mean danger.

 

This spider has been damn busy. 

 

Orange-yellow lichen or moss 

 

No idea what this was growing on the rocks next to Lake Superior 

 

Great flower... but do you see the bee? 

 

Green and slimy river run-off... but it is super vibrant 

 

With all the water, most plants had sprung to life... and with a little sun, most flowers too. 

 

Oberg Trail, Lutsen, MN

This a very simple out-and-back loop starting just north of Tofte. The views all the way around the trail make it well worth it for everyone. It isn't a hard slog at all, and even with some recent rain stayed relatively un-muddy. Recommended.

Life of a Firework

If you blink, you'll miss it

Carlton Peak Trail, Tofte, MN

 When life gives you lemons that are being rained on, go for a hike and wait to make lemonade until you get back.

 

This place is just off Hwy-61, north of Tofte, MN. I would recommend it for the easy trails and great views. There are a few terrain challenges, like slick granite, but I think most folks can handle it, especially when dry.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Firemaking 101

Now, I'm by no means an expert, but I've lit enough fires to know something about how best to start one. Though not always possible, you're going to want to start with dry materials. Find some old newspaper, some branches that aren't soaked and get to getting ready to put the fire together.

 

See, all laid out, ready to burn.

 

 

Then start assembling the initial burn structure, this is what I call a "Lincoln Log" starter. You can also try a teepee structure, but just make sure there's room to burn... not all packed down so tight you can't see daylight through it.

 

 Fan or blow on the flames to get them going...

 

If the wood's good, the structure has enough air in it, and you have some luck, it will light right up.

 

A fire like this, with a red-hot bed of coals can almost burn anything. Find some driftwood along the shoreline and toss it on.

 

And then finish the firemaking and night outside by enjoying one of these...

 

 

ESPN's Going Home.

Watch "Members of the military return home to reunite with their families" on YouTube

Happy 4th, All.

Temperance River Trail, Tofte, MN

 

 

It seems like there's always something to do up on the North Shore of Lake Superior. Rainy mildly cold afternoon... no problem. Go for a hike at the Temperance River Trail and hike around while you wait for the sun to show.

 

Best part is that with all the precip this year, all the rivers are running pretty fast and full. It was great to check this place out... right off the side of the road. Don't pass it up next time, just swing off the road and get out of the car. I think you'll be glad you did.