Photos by:

Karen Holmquist

Photos by:

Mary Ellen Gabel

Jay Cooke State Park

George G, Joy K, David L

Despite the frigid temperature, 20 brave ULLRs motored up to God’s country, Duluth, on January 28th. 

Six of the twenty skied downhill at Spirit Mountain.  Although the day was chilly, a lack of wind actually made a day of skiing “doable.”  Spirit Mt. had new snow that was very well groomed.  We shared the hill with three bus loads of students, but we were amazed that we had no lift lines.  Bruce Warner methodically led us from one side of the hill to other and back again.

Meanwhile, twelve of the group snowshoed over hill and dale at Jay Cooke State Park.  Patty Fitzgerald led the group over the bridge and along the river.  It was a beautiful sight with the snow hanging heavily on the trees.  Later JJ, Laurie, Mary Ellen, and Sally crossed the highway and found quiet, winding trails to follow.

We all met back at The Black Bear Casino for “Happy Hour”, libations and conversation.  The group then enjoyed a Seafood Buffet dinner, followed by not much luck at the casino’s games of chance.

Friday, Sigrid, Ted, and Don Cooke headed back to Spirit for a day of skiing.  Many of the others headed to Banning State Park for either cross-country skiing (Jim), or snowshoeing.  Had the rest of us gone the right direction, we would have had a nice walk by the river, however, it was still a beautiful day for a walk in the woods.

The two days ended with a lunch at Banning Junction, eating and watching the numerous birds at their feeders.  Thanks to all of you for two wonderful days in the Great Minnesota Outdoors!

Karen Holmquist