I’m a pretty lucky guy. I have an awesome dad. Last winter, I asked him if he wanted to do a father son activity of some sort. Something outside. He is pretty fit, so we talked about the different options and finally settled on a day of canoeing.
We live in Southeast Minnesota and have some great rivers for canoeing. We decided to do a 5 hour paddle on the Root River.
That morning, we stopped in Houston, Mn at Carlson Roasting Co. for fresh coffee and some fancy mini donuts. Fuel for the trip!
Next we stopped in at Root River Outfitters who set up with canoe, paddles and life vests.
The Root River is gorgeous. All sorts of wildlife. The only catch is that by the time you get to the last hour of the float from Moen Bridge, the tubers start floating down as well making a peaceful paddle an active game of dodging the floating drinkers. Of course, I’ve been the tuber too, but it is just something to be aware of depending on what type of experience you are looking for.
I also caught a few small smallmouth bass on the fly. A nice bonus to an already awesome trip.

Can’t wait until our next paddle, Dad.