Location: William O'Brien State Park, MN
We thought for a change of pace we'd explore Duluth MN. Last time we were there it was in the fall and sooo cold. When we arrived it was pleasant & sunny.
Here's the Duluth Harbor lighthouse.
We had just started to explore the downtown area via the Lakewalk when the weather changed to cold and windy. Quick trip back to Winnie to layer-up and we were off!
The Lakewalk is pretty impressive. There's paths for cyclists as well as pedestrians (and trains!) right next to Lake Superior.
Lots of cute restaurants, pubs and sidewalk cafes.
After lunch at Northern Waters Smokehouse, famous for their smoked meats and fish (yes, it was delish!) we took a walk to the US Corp of Engineers Maritime Vistors Center.
Everyone here is so nice. We were invited to sit with some young kids (early 20's) for lunch. Really had a great time chatting up politics and the local scene with them.
We really enjoyed reading about the shipping industry on the Great Lakes, the shipwrecks and how the iron ore is loaded onto the big cargo ships.
Captain, my captain...looking good.
Here's the billboard that shows what ships will be coming in, with what cargo, time, length, etc.
That inspired us to hang out at the aerial bridge and watch for incoming ships. We watched a US Coast Guard Ship try and navigate thru the channel. It was crazy how big the swells became.
Food truck, Duluth style. Dry-docked boat selling donuts.
View of the Duluth skyline.
We decided this place was too cold for these Californians. BTW - we were wearing long-pants, long sleeve shirts and jackets. The locals were in flip-flops and short sleeves. Everything is relative I guess.
We decided to head south, closer to Minneapolis, for warmer weather.
Heading thru one of the small towns. Love the water tower shaped Iike a tea kettle.
When we pulled into the campground at 7ish tonight, the weather was back to the mid-80's. Once again changing back into our shorts and t-shirts. The mid-west has crazy weather.
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