Grand Marais

The end of July, Jens, Jake, Jonell and I made a three day trip to Grand Marais for some biking and relaxing and "Scamping". Jack was at Italian language camp, Jon was at a hockey camp so they were not able to join us.

Exploring the shore.

The Scamp isn't very big but when the outdoors is your living room, it is big enough.

At the Pincushion trailhead ready to ride.

Last year Jens, Jonell and I made a trip up here. A few weeks later, Jon, Jake and I went to Copper Harbor for some mountain biking. We chose to return to Grand Marais for the style of trails and the town of Grand Marais. There were a few new trails since we were there last year. The trails are a mix of machine and hand built. Fast flowing but rock gardens scattered throughout that challenge all aspects of ones skill set. As far as flow trails go, the riding at Pincushion feels more natural, not predictable and truly contour.

Rock garden on a new section. Instead of covering all the rocks up, they worked the terrain to find a line and make for a challenging run ride.

Jens on a berm.

The wind was ripping pretty good when we were there, producing waves more common in October.

Mesmerized by the water.

Jonell rolling over the rocks at Britton Peak. Jonell rode a bit more this year and did awesome. A fun little trail system near Tofte.

Family ride! A great trip and nice weather.

I didn't force the kids into taking this picture.

Jens rolling over the rocks.

Nothing better than riding with your kids.

Hughie's Tacos a must stop in Grand Marais.

Top of state trail that heads back to Grand Marais. Had to stop and tell the boys the story of racing back in 91 and 92, the first years of the Sawtooth Challenge. It was always super muddy and the descent was always dicey. Especially with rigid bikes. 

Meanwhile Jack was at camp. At International Day, the day all camps come together for multi cultural sharing and conclude with song and dance. The Italian camp mixed it up this year, enacting a gladiator scene where Jack was the last man standing! Short version for a bit more complex production.

On our way home we swung by the cities to watch Jon's last game with the U of M model camp. Before his game former Gophers now playing Pro hockey were having a friendly scrimmage. Despite the slower pace, it was obvious there were pros out there with the skill set displayed.