Three outdoor organizations are joining together for a special combination event that will take place at the headwaters of the St. Croix River this month. And it’s all to recognize the 50thAnniversary of both the Wild and Scenic Rivers Act (which created the St. Croix National Scenic Riverway) and National Trails System Act (which created the North Country National Scenic Trail).
The public is invited to participate in a free paddle, hike and picnic event planned on Saturday, September 22 beginning at the Gordon Dam County Park in Douglas County. Participants will paddle down a short scenic stretch of the St. Croix National Scenic Riverway, hike back to the starting point on the North Country National Scenic Trail, and then enjoy lunch while learning about how these unique recreational treasures came to be.
Those who would like to take part should meet at the park, west of Gordon on County Highway Y, at 10 AM. Canoes, paddles, and life jackets will be provided for the 2 mile paddle on the St. Croix. Canoeists will then land and hike the North Country Trail back to the park.
A potluck picnic will follow; bring a dish to share. During lunch, there will be a presentation about Wisconsin Senator Gaylord Nelson and his role in creating the National Wild and Scenic Rivers and the National Scenic Trails.
For more details on these events, visit www.meetup.com/sscbhikers, or email bsc@northcountrytrail.org.
The partnering organizations are all volunteer groups which support outdoor activities. The North Country Trail Association partners with the National Park Service and state/local agencies to build, maintain, and promote recreation on America’s longest hiking trail. The St. Croix River Association partners with the National Park Service to experience and care for the St. Croix National Scenic Riverway. The Friends of The St. Croix Headwaters celebrates and conserves the St. Croix Head- waters area and works to advance the quality of life of area residents. For more information about the sponsors, visit www.northcountrytrail.org/bsc, www.stcroixriverassociation.org, and http://www.- fotsch.org.
