(September 18 and 23 are travel days. September 19-22 are hiking days in and around Itasca State Park.)
\n\nHike the NCT in and around Minnesota&rsquo\;s \;Itasca State Park\, \;home of the Headwaters of the Mississippi. \;Lodging and meals will most likely be centered from Douglas Lodge in the heart of the Park. Come and help celebrate \;Itasca State park&rsquo\;s 125th birthday. It is the 2nd oldest state park in the USA.
\n\nThe area&rsquo\;s topography is gently undulating and relatively easy hiking for the average hiker\, young and old. We will hike with only daypacks returning to the lodge each evening.
\n\nPoints of interest in the area including hiking on the watershed between the Mississippi and Red Rivers. Precipitation on one side of the NCT flows into the Gulf of Mexico and on the other side into Hudson Bay of Canada. The NCT also passes through mature mixed deciduous and northern coniferous forest. It passes by numerous glacial lakes that dot the landscape\, one of them a crystal clear designated trout fishery.
\n\nAlso you can celebrate the National Park Service Centennial and grab a few miles toward your NCT Hike 100 Challenge with some like-minded people. NCTA trips are known for the camaraderie and lasting friendships that develop during hiking experiences.
\n\nJoining us for the \;Celebration in Fargo\, ND September 15-17\, 2016? This outing makes the perfect add-on to your NCT celebration.
\n\nContact Bruce Johnson at \;brucej@arvig.net \;for more information and to register. Spaces limited.
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