Michael Richardson
Today was the perfect example of what we’ve been dreaming about on our way across the South Dakota prairies. With the fierce winds and raging trucks behind us, we could finally focus on enjoying the beautiful scenery and increasingly dense forest. Before that, however, we had about 15 miles left in the Twin Cities, almost entirely on protected bike paths. I didn’t really know what to expect when we arrived in Minneapolis on Monday, but I certainly didn’t anticipate a bicyclist’s paradise. Turns out I was wrong—this place is awesome. Bicycle highways below street level? Check. Bridges and tunnels? Check. Stop signs for cars, but not path-goers? Check. Tool stations, air pumps, and bathrooms? Check. Bike parking at every restaurant, park, or store? Check. Eclectic artwork, murals, and sculptures? Check. The list goes on. Everyone here rides their bike, and I couldn’t stop smiling because of it. After some research, I learned that PeopleForBikes gives Minneapolis a score of 71 out of 100 for bike network quality and safety. For reference, Amsterdam received a score of 89 and Raleigh received a 21.
The gang enjoys the bike infrastructure around the Twin Cities
By early morning, we crossed over the Mississippi River—another big milestone for the trip—and made our way through St. Paul. The historical aesthetic reminded me a lot of Charlotte—but these bike paths won’t rattle your teeth right out. Slowly but surely, we ducked under the tree canopies and out into the countryside. Instead of sharing the bike path with 20-somethings on their way to work, we were now alongside retirees on tandem bikes and horses. We passed many smaller lakes and Brian pointed out a Red-winged Blackbird perched on a log—often considered a symbol for protection and guidance.
Friend crosses the Mississippi River
Horses left!
Not long after lunch, we found ourselves at the St. Croix river and the end of our sixth state. Minnesota has been good to us, but we didn’t look back as we rode through the small village of Osceola, Wisconsin. I’ve continued to notice how friendly the people are around here, and the growing presence of trees and hills also put me in a good mood for the afternoon. Tonight, we’re staying at the “Do Nothin Campground” near Balsam Lake, which is ironic considering it’s the only campground we’ve stayed at with a Campfire Cove Aqua Park and inflatable “Blob” feature.
Just a few of the many trees in Wisconsin so far
Brian and Friend hit the Aqua Park at the Do Nothin Campground