The Cannon River  
From Faribault to Red Wing.

This narrow winding river provides a bit of everything; lovely scenery, wildlife, historic remnants, class III rapids, downed trees, portages, misdirection, and 20 mph headwinds just for fun.

Highlights of the first day include pulling my 17’ kayak through the streets of Northfield in search of an old tavern bar for a midday pause. Then I’m met with Class III rapids that challenge my skill and nerves, with hidden snags, which want to pull me under.

When leaving Lake Byllesby near the halfway point I must portage around the dam. If it weren’t for the help of the two other paddlers (canoeists) I had just met, the steep 60 foot decent would not have been possible.

The evening brings sub-freezing temperatures, a reminder of a winter too long. During the night it is a challenge to keep warm in my well vented summer tent.

A peaceful morning glide down the river allows me to sneak up on eagles perched above, see deer playing along river’s edge, and watch geese run atop the water before they catch wind and take flight.

Near the end of my journey I am greeted with an expansive floodplain and three more miles before reaching the Mississippi River. Because the water is so high it is impossible to tell where the river is, or was. I zig zag my way across searching for any clue. I wonder, is there a break in the trees just ahead?

Deep in the woods ahead of me I see a fisherman, two, and then three. Plowing off course through heavy trees and debris I pass through lakes Little Goose, Spring, and Cannon as I make my way and finish my 62.5 mile journey in Red Wing, MN.