Wanderings And Ponderings

  Pattison State Park, located just south of Superior, Wisconsin, is not only a haven for outdoor recreation but also a place steeped in cultural and geological significance. The land has been home to Indigenous peoples for thousands of years, especially the Ojibwe, who lived in harmony with the rivers, lakes, and forests of the region. The Nemadji River and surrounding waterways served as vital transportation and fishing routes, and the area is still considered sacred to many Native communities today. The park’s modern history began in 1917 when Martin Pattison, a successful lumber baron and conservationist, donated the land to the state. At a time when logging was destroying much of Wisconsin’s wilderness, Pattison recognized the importance of protecting the towering 165-foot Big Manitou Falls—the tallest waterfall in the state. His gift helped launch the preservation of this extraordinary landscape and sparked a long-standing commitment to conservation. During the Great Depress...

Quarry Park in Duluth, Minnesota, is one of those rare places where history, adventure, and natural beauty all come together. Located just a few miles west of downtown Duluth, this former industrial site has been transformed into a unique recreational space that draws in climbers, hikers, disc golfers, and nature lovers year-round. The park sits on the grounds of a historic rock quarry once operated by the Duluth Crushed Stone Company. In its heyday, the site provided stone for roads, buildings, and infrastructure projects across the region. When the quarrying operations ceased, the city stepped in to reclaim the space, eventually opening Quarry Park to the public. What remains today is a massive 1,000-foot long cliff face that towers over 100 feet high—a dramatic and rugged reminder of the park’s industrial past. One of the park’s most exciting features is its winter ice climbing scene. Thanks to a unique process called “ice farming,” volunteers and local outdoor groups spray water o...

Brighton Beach in Duluth, Minnesota—officially known as Kitchi Gammi Park—is a local favorite along Lake Superior’s rugged North Shore. Known for its rocky shoreline, peaceful vibe, and unbeatable views, it’s the kind of place that offers a bit of everything: recreation, relaxation, and a deep connection to the natural beauty of the Great Lakes region. The beach is located at the eastern end of Duluth’s Lakewalk, a popular trail that winds for miles along the waterfront, eventually reaching the historic Canal Park district. Whether you're walking, biking, or just taking a slow stroll, the Lakewalk is one of the best ways to experience the city’s lakeshore. Brighton Beach serves as a quieter, more nature-focused end of that journey, and it's the perfect place to start or end your trek. One of the highlights of Brighton Beach is the soundscape—there’s nothing quite like the rhythm of waves crashing against the large basalt rocks that line the shore. It’s easy to spend an afternoo...

Enger Park and Tower: Duluth’s Hilltop Haven with History, Views, and Serenity While in Duluth recently for meetings with the Board of Directors for the Society of Outdoor Recreation Professionals (SORP), we spent time scoping out the area in preparation for the 2026 National Outdoor Recreation Conference. As part of our visit, our local host took us on a scenic tour of the city—and one of the first stops was Enger Park. What a perfect introduction to Duluth’s beauty, history, and community spirit. A Gift of Generosity: The Legacy of Bert Enger Enger Park sits on Skyline Parkway, high above the city, offering incredible panoramic views of Duluth, the harbor, and the endless blue of Lake Superior. The park’s centerpiece, Enger Tower , was built in 1939 as a memorial to Bert J. Enger , a Norwegian immigrant and successful Duluth furniture dealer. Upon his death in 1931, Enger left a substantial portion of his estate, including land and funds, to the city of Duluth with the intent of cre...