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Home , Cannon Valley Trail, Coldwater Spring, Crosby Farm, Crow Wing State Park, Fort Snelling State Park, Frontenac State Park

MetroQuest Round 1 Summary

October 2014 y OVERVIEW In order to broaden the geographic extent of outreach for the Corridor Management Plan, an interactive online survey was available from July 15, 2014 to October 15, 2014. The MetroQuest survey was developed to gain feedback consistent with the first round of open houses, which took place in July 2014. It included project information and opportunities to provide feedback on Great River Road themes, places, and stories. A of 307 people took the survey, of which 91 provided demographic data. All age ranges between 19 and 65+ were represented, with 6 to 13 responses in each age group.

More detailed information and participant responses are provided in the following pages.

1 y SURVEY RESULTS

Themes Survey respondents were invited to provide feedback on what travel experiences are important to them. Travel themes. Nature and recreational activities were the top-ranked themes. Additional travel themes suggested included fishing, learn about the resource threats, enjoy beautiful views of the river and other natural and cultural aspects of the Great River Road, safe travel, use the road to get where I am going, learn ecology, and mountain biking/hiking. Themes 1st 2nd 3rd Weighted Total Nature 88 57 30 408 Recreational Activities 66 68 45 379 Working River 29 26 32 171 History 30 27 25 169 Food 15 21 46 133 Local Culture 14 22 38 124 Archeological Resources 3 11 8 39 Ethnic Heritage 5 8 6 37 Agritourism 1 8 7 26 Arts 1 3 11 20

The following comments were also received:

u Bird sanctuaries and nature in general u Brainerd needs some arts and crafts type thing to get people to visit the parks u Gotta understand some history u Route should travel as close to river as feasible through all types of terrain. Through rural and urban environments. This should be the land view of what would be seen if traveling by boat on the river u I like to learn about the settlers also. My relatives arrived in this unique area in 1859 u A trail of campsites only accessible by water! u Clearly marked bicycle and walking trails. More canoe and kayak launch places. Also easy to follow maps that include the art and culture along the way u I am especially interested in learning about how Native Americans interacted with the river through all facets of life u As with the origin of most great cities the river provided a mechanism important to spurring growth....transportation, industry (logging, shipping, power, water, etc.) u Eagles own the river...and to see their magnificence with the backdrop of the it’s understandable u You don't really see or feel the magnificence of the river until you Kayak along its banks u The history of the river, everything about the river road is about river u There are great artists who have made their homes out in the blufflands. Whether it be painters sculptors craft work or just plain fun stuff it can be found here u We are blessed with a truly beautiful and abundant flyway. You cannot travel this river valley without seeing turkey, deer, otters, along with all the migrating birds in spring and fall and so many others

2 u I am the descendant of Scandinavian immigrants and have grown up in northern MN. As I mature and put into perspective the impact that immigration has had on the Native Americans, I am saddened by what the logging industry and settlers did to their environment and way of life. It cannot ever be fully restored, but hopefully we can make efforts in that direction. As that is done, I feel we need to teach others about those events, help to restore health and respect to that population, and educate the public about an amazingly self-sufficient culture u I love biking along the river in my community and would like to take the someday u Would love to see opportunities for family friendly camping along the River identified. Places In this portion of the MetroQuest survey, participants placed pins on important resources along the Great River Road. A total of 543 specific locations were identified, with an additional XX general areas located on the map. Resource descriptions of specific areas are listed below.

u 35 Bridge Memorial u Beanery: nice internet cafe. Good food, u 35w memorial historic opera house building being u 5K fun runs - too many to name that go restored across the river downtown u Beaver Island Trail St u Acoustic Cafe -- Coffee, beer, soups, Cloudhttp://www.stcloudstate.edu/camp and sandwiches in a laid-back usrec/facilities/trails/trails.asp?route=be environment and a historic location aver Trail provides opportunity to see u ADA Universal Playground and portions of the Mississippi River. Discovery Garden u Beaver Island Trail. Offers hiking, u Aitkin County Campground. Rustic, biking, camping along with many scenic good access to the river, fishing views. u Aitkin City Park, Fireworks on the 4th, u Bedlam! Lowertown pie eating. u Beginning (source) of the Mississippi u Alma, WI Buena Vista Park. Excellent River views of the Mississippi River valley. u beginning of Mississippi u Anderson Center at Tower View, one of u Belle Park Disc Golf the top artistic destination points in the u Bemidji has beautiful art on their main region by street and iconic Paul National Geographic Traveler Magazine u Berglund Campground shows river u Apple Blossom Drive access, fishing pier, ATV trails, and u Architecture of Older Homes in St. Snowmobile trails. CloudPantown Motors u Best Fishing Float. u Art at Rice Creek Festival in September u Big Lake Music by the Lake every u Arts in The Park Thursday during the summer u Aster Cafe u Big River Scoop u At the end of Summit Ave with a view of u Bike from Minneapolis to Saint Paul Mpls skyline along the river. u ATV Trail 200 miles of interconnected u Bike the river gorge between ATV trail. Minneapolis and St. Paul. www.NorthwoodsATVTrail.com u Bike trails u Banfill-Locke Center for the Arts u Birchwood Cafe; Longfellow Grill u Barn Bluff u Blandin Paper Company important to u Barn Bluff Grand Rapids. u Barn Bluff and Covell Park u Blandin Paper Mill u Barn Bluff Park u Blue Ox Trail (Voyager Trail) u Battle Creek Park--historic location of u Bluff Country Indian battle; natural area that shows u Bluff country beautiful views the bluffs along the Mississippi u Bluffs u Bay Point Park u Bluffs in Red Wing u Bdote u bluffs of

3 u Boat house for U of MN Crew team u Como Park and Zoo - it may be more u Boathouse - Winona overlooking the than a mile from the Miss. River, Mississippi however it has so much to offer~ zoo, u Boats swimming pool, fishing, picnicking, u Boats and Bluegrass On Last Weekend walking paths, Como Lake, area for of September sports activities, arboretum... u Bob Welch Aquatic Center u Coon Rapids Dam u Brainerd Lakes area is a great place to u Coon Rapids Dam. Good place for bird do all water activities. watching and fishing. u Brainerd Raceway u trails u Brainerd restaurants on the water u Crosby Lake (backwater lake) illustrates u Broadway Bridge the important connection the river has u Brownsville, Overlook end of outside its banks October to mid-November - Tundra u Crow Wing County Historical Center Swans and bald eagles u offers events, u Buena Vista Park scenic views, history u Camping within close distance to u Crow Wing State Park, including historic Mississippi River for boating fishing and site of former town of Crow Wing other river recreation u Cut Foot u Cannon Falls Bike Trail u Cuyuna Country State Recreation Area. u , trail head 23 miles of mountain biking trails, for u Can't beat the headwaters... a must see beginners to advanced riders. A premier to appreciate the river. biking destination. u Casino u Cuyuna Country State Recreational u Casino/Hotel Area u Central Riverfront u Cuyuna Lakes Trail Paul Bunyan Trail u Chain of Lakes u Cuyuna Range u Charles Lindbergh Boyhood Home in u Cuyuna Rec Area Little Falls u Cuyuna Recreational Area. Great place u Chars Bluff, Spring Lake Regional Park. to mountain bike on the established u Cherokee Bluffs overlook at top of High trails. Bridge u Cuyuna State Park Mountain Bike Trail u Coffee Shop u Dangerous Man Brewery u u Douglas Point. Winter often brings many u Coldwater Spring is being restored, but waterfowl to this area of open water, it is the site of the first American some of which are unusual and rare settlement in Minnesota. Originally used visitors. Eagles are common. by Native Americans and the u downtown bike race encampment of US soldiers that built u Downtown Minneapolis - industry, Historic . Artifacts remain in housing, shops, trails, stone arch bridge, place to help describe the complicated etc. history of this location. u Downtown St. Paul u Coldwater Spring, which the NPS and u Dresbach Bridge Rest Area Mississippi River Fund are restoring to u Eagle Center oak savanna prairie. A neat park in the u Eagle Center heart of the city. u Eagles by Wabasha u Coldwater Spring. The National Park u East and River Road areas in St. Service is restoring the old Bureau of Paul and Minneapolis ... but I would Mines campus back to oak savanna. want to list more recreational activities Restoration is well underway and the than just hiking like bicycling, park now appears much as it did during canoeing/kayaking, fishing pre-settlement times u Eckert's Apple Orchard. u Colville Park in many years hosts large u Everywhere numbers of Bald Eagles. There is an u Everywhere eagle's nest directly across from the u Falconer Vineyards: great wine and marina. Also many ducks in winter. pizzas

4 u Fall Color Drive u Great hiking and views at Great River u Fall color drive and motorcycle tour. Bluffs State Park u Farmers Market u Great River Bike Trail and Upper u Ferry Boat Rides Mississippi Wild Life Refuge u Fishing on Lake Winnie. u Great River Bluffs u Ford Bridge u Great River Bluffs State Park u and the trail u Great River Bluffs State Park system in Grand Rapids offer many u Great River Bluffs State Park. Excellent ways to recreate and enjoy nature. views of the Mississippi River valley. u Forest Trails along the River - u Great River Shakespeare Festival in u Former grain milling sites Winona u Former Mill Ruins u Grey Cloud Dunes Natural and Scientific u Fort Snelling Area. Sand dunes rise above the u Fort Snelling Mississippi River harboring a unique u plant and animal community. u Fort Snelling State Park. Trumpeter u GRR through Minneapolis swans are often found here in winter at u Gull Lake near Brainerd is a fun lake for this location. boating and looking at lots of beautiful u Fort Snelling: Land seizure and lake homes. subjugation of native people. u Guthrie area u Frank Gehry designed museum at the u u Guthrie Theater - beautiful architecture, u Franklin Art Center - Artists work views of river, quality productions u French Rapids u Guthrie Theater cantilever u French Rapids - great natural area u Guthrie Theatre u French Rapids- Also for hiking, mtn. u Halloween capital biking, horseback riding. u Halloween capital u French Rapids Dam u Harbor View - Pepin, WI u French Rapids Trail System - Cross u Harriet Island Country Skiing, Hiking, Mtn. Biking. Also u Hay Creek Trail has a boat ramp. u Headwaters u From Winona to La Crescent -- beautiful u Headwaters bluff lands and State Parks u Headwaters u u Headwaters u Frontenac State Park u Headwaters - it's a must see activity u Frontenac State Park u Hidden Falls u Frontenac State Park u Hidden Falls Park to Harriet Island u Frontenac State Park u High above Prescott, WI, Mississippi u Frontenac Lake City Wabasha River Visitor's Center u Garvin Heights u High Bridge u Garvin Heights Look Out u High bridge in St. Paul: combination of u Garvin Heights Park scenic view and recreation. I follow a u great bike path that parallels the river. u Golf Wonderful hill biking. u Goodhue Pioneer State Trail u Highway 61 in Lake City along Lake u Grand Rapids, Iron Range Pepin u Grand Rapids has a great museum u Hike, bike, boat, fish, cross-country ski-- about the lumber industry. there's year-round recreation fun along u Grand Rapids has a small but fun the river. I like Crosby Farm Regional museum about Judy Garland. Park in St. Paul. u Grand Rapids, bird watching, fishing, u Historic Downtown etc. u Historic Downtown Red Wing u Grand Rapids. Wizard of Oz u Historic downtown Red Wing u Gravel section of GRR is a must see! u Historic South St. Paul Stockyards u Great food, patio overlooking the river. u Historic Water Tower in downtown Brainerd

5 u Historic Winona Bridge u . Headwaters, largest u Hogs Back Beer Garden (at Eckert's red and white pine trees in MN, Apple Farm). Outdoor bar with craft excellent interpretive center beers on tap. u Itasca State Park. People love to say u Historic RR Landing Rabey line at the they walked across the Mississippi River u Itasca State Park. Hike, bike, canoe, u Hull Rust Mahoning Mine, 401 see big trees and source of river. Penobscot Rd Hibbing, MN 55746 218- u Jacobson Campground. Beautiful Park, 262-4166 camping, rustic, camper cabins, u I always bring people to the lock and fantastic artesian well. dam. Scenic, educational and unique. u Jacobson Wayside Rest and River u I have always loved Bemidji. Great Bridge. Canoe Access place to center a fishing trip, scenic u James J. Hill House vistas, cycling, shopping, etc. u JD Jorgensen's The Satellite Gallery in u I think that anyone who has seen how St Joe wide and powerful the Mississippi River http://jdjorgensonpottery.com/the- is, is humbled by its beautiful source. satellite-gallery/ u I used to live near the river and met u John A. Latsch State Park many people that were spending a u John Latch State Park vacation visiting every bridge that u John Latch State Park crosses the Mississippi. I think there u John Latch State Park: 600 steps up would be benefits in doing interpretive the bluff for spectacular views of the panels at bridges. Mississippi River Valley, including Lock u In summer, Hastings has cruise-ins and Dam No. 5. every other Saturday, with collector u Just north of Alma is Reichs Pond, cars. formerly a great place to watch for u Indian Mounds Park migrating tundra swans in the fall. There u Indian Mounds Park are still a few there, but they are often u Indian Mounds Park close making this a great spot to watch u Indian Mounds Park: best river view in them. the Twin Cities. u Just south of 694 on east side of river, u Indian Mounds Regional Park. Great best bike trail! views of downtown St. Paul. u Just south of Brownsville is a great Spectacular at night. History of Native place to watch thousands of migrating American use as well. tundra swans in October and November. u Irish Fair u Kayaking in former mines at State Park u It is great fun to see the Headwaters of in Crosby the Mississippi and walk across it. A u Kayaking trips to the Gorge with Above "must do" visit with the kids! the Falls Outfitters u Itasca u Kelly Historic Farm u Itasca state park u Kiwanis Park with bathroom, fishing u Itasca state park pier, canoe access, and walking/biking u Itasca State Park trails u Itasca State Park and the Headwaters u La crescent Apple Festival annually. u Itasca State Park including Headwaters excellent selection for eating u Itasca State Park is a beautiful area of u La Moille the state to enjoy nature and learn about u LaCrosse/LaCrescent the Mississippi headwaters. u Ladyslipper scenic byway is in this area. u Itasca State Park offers more than just u Lake City hiking. It's a place to experience co- u Lake City Birthplace of Water skiing, existence at it’s' best. apples, Lake Pepin boat tours. Sailing, u Itasca State Park, great hiking, biking sailboarding, fishing, Jet Ski, river walk. trails, canoeing the lake, beautiful Biking events. Historical, needs a scenery boardwalk and highway moved out of town. u Lake Itasca State Park

6 u Lake Itasca State park biking and hiking u Locks and Dams u Lake Pepin u Long Lake Conservation Center u Lake Pepin u Longfellow Grill: Great food, beer, and u Lake Pepin outdoor seating right off the Mississippi u Lake Pepin River bike/ped trail u Lake Pepin u Lost 40 u Lake Pepin u Lots of great food/drink destinations in u Lake Pepin the metro (especially Minneapolis) that u Lake Pepin area and surrounding towns take advantage of river proximity. and bluffs Favorites include Aster, Wilde Roast, u Lake Pepin is a great place for many Pracna in St. Anthony Main area; water activities! Spoonriver, Izzy's, and Mill City Farmers u Lake St/Marshall Ave bridge - easy stroll Market in Mill City area. from home, beautiful view up and down u Lots of history, and things to do and see the river in all seasons, easily in the Crosby/Brainerd area including accessible for visitors to the metro the antique shops, the serpent at u Lake Winnibigoshish: Wildlife, fishing Sealant lake, old train yard, paper mill in u Trails northeast Brainerd, the (somewhat( http://lakewobegontrail.com/These trails historic 210 bridge in Brainerd, and offer and opportunity to experience not many area trails for hiking, biking and only the "Big Woods" biome but also the wildlife viewing. "Prairie Potholes" biome. Both of these u Lower Dean Lake - Wild Rice natural wonders are part of the Harvesting Minnesota world of nature. u Lum Park RV Park, Disc Golf, Beach, u Lake Wobegon huge park, boat landing, canoe access, Trailshttp://lakewobegontrail.com/Provid u Memorial Park es opportunity to view nature at its best u Memorial Park and enjoy the local scenery along one of u Migrating Birds in spring and fall. the best trail s in Minnesota. Also u connects to other trails the Soo Line u Mill City Museum West and the Central Lakes Trails and u Mill City Museum tells the story of the with a short off trail ride you can access milling district and why St. Anthony Falls the ROCORI Trail and the Glacial Lakes was so important to the development of Trails providing nearly 150 miles of large-scale food production. paved connected trails. u Mill City Museum Great history of u Large beds of blooming lotus dot this Minneapolis, great river views area. Best seen by canoe, kayak, or u boat. Beware of shallow waters. u Mill Ruins Park Beautifully preserved, u Lark Toys urban history u Lark Toys: Best Toy Store in MN. u Milling District u Lark Toys Amazing, unique, family fun! u Mine Tailings Overlook u Lake Pepin u Mini-golf u Levee Park - working river u Mining History of Cuyuna Mines u Libby Dam Great camping, history, u Minneapolis Stone Arch Bridge Art Fair. views, river lake connection u Minnehaha Falls u Little Falls: Military museum, fishing u Minnehaha Falls museum, Charles Lindbergh boyhood u Minnehaha Falls home, state park u Minnehaha Falls u Lobos Bar/Grill - mystery of large wolf. u Minnehaha Falls u Lock u Minnehaha Falls u Lock u Minnehaha Falls u Lock and Dam u Minnehaha falls and park u Lock and Dam u Minnesota and Mississippi meet u Lock and Dam at St. Anthony u Minnesota Discovery Center 801 SW u lock and dams in metro area Highway 169, Chisholm, 218-254- u locks

7 7959Go to: u Northwoods ATV Trail and Snowmobile www.mndiscoverycenter.com Trail u Minnesota Fishing Museum in Baxter u NOSH Restaurant Lake City MN and Minnesota Boat Museum in Little u One of the few places in the world you Falls can find cross rocks. u Minnesota Museum of Marine Art u Our grand kids are impressed by the u Minnesota School of Diving 712 water flowing over the dam here, Washington St, Brainerd, MN Interesting especially in the spring! stories and artifacts u Paddle Boat rides in the fall-Awesome u Mississippi Gorge Drive along River colors u Mississippi headwaters u Palisade Cafe, Stuffed hash browns, u Mississippi Headwaters - amazing to be share an order with a friend though. where it all begins. Beautiful! u Papermills, Shopping, Forests. Grand u Mississippi National River and Rapids is easily enjoyed. Recreation Area Visitor Center u Paramount Center for the Arts u Mississippi River Recreational Bridge at http://www.paramountarts.org/Provides Palisade the opportunity to view some of the best u Mississippi River Regional Trail - Spring local art works and to experience live Lake Park Reserve shows in a theater that was active at the u Mississippi River trail near 35W bridge, turn of the 20th century as well. Guthrie, and Mill City Museum -- u PARK beautiful city lights from the bike trail just u Park in Prescott, WI after sunset. u Paul u Mississippi River Visitor Center - great u Paul Bunyan and Babe the Blue Ox are film on the national park not to be missed, and fun for the kids - a u Mississippi/Minnesota Rivers great photo op! u Mounds Park Overlook: Best view of u Paul Bunyan and Babe, the Blue Ox, in Downtown Saint Paul downtown Bemidji u Mounds Park/ Dayton's Bluff u Paul Bunyan Trail u Mounds Park--historic Indian burial site; u Pickerel Lake, Lilydale Regional Park. also views of St. Paul and Mpls, Trout Trumpeter Swans are often found at this Brook Valley where original RRs left St. location during the winter. Paul, and the working river u Picnic Island, Fort Snelling State Park. u Munsinger Gardens Good wildlife watching here, especially u Munsinger Gardens in St. Cloud for deer during the winter. u Munsinger Gardens. Beautiful park and u Pig's Eye Lake--the remainder of early gardens with fantastic views of the river, 19th century settlement, natural area, dam, and SCSU surrounded by industry u National Eagle Center u confluence -- awesome to u National Eagle Center see the rivers come together u National Eagle Center u Pike Island, Fort Snelling State Park. u National Eagle Center Deer and eagles are found here all year u National Eagle Center year round. round. Migrating songbirds are common u National Eagle Center, Wabasha, MN; in spring and fall. live eagles up close and in the wild u Pike Island. The Confluence of the u National Eagle Center. Mississippi River and the Minnesota u National Water Trail US FWS River, see where the colors swirl u Nelson cheese Factory together. u New Moon Beer Festival Sept 13th u Pilot Knob u Nisswa - restaurants, Paul Bunyan Trail, u Pine Bend Bluff SNA shopping u Pine Bend Bluffs Scientific and Natural u goes through Itasca Area State Park u Pine Bend Bluffs SNA u Northland Arboretum. Trails, gardens, u Pokegama Lake water sports nature center and programs. u Polish Heritage Museum

8 u Port of Winona--in the fall when all the u via boat on the truckloads of grain are being loaded for river shipping downriver u Science Museum u Psycho Suzie's u Science Museum of Minnesota- u Psycho Suzis fascinating exhibits, musical stairs, and u Psycho Suzi's great views of the Miss. River and the u Pullouts along the Mississippi. Great area from the upper level outdoor plaza! eagle viewing in the winter. u Sea Salt u Quarry Park u Sea Salt http://www.co.stearns.mn.us/Recreation/ u Sea Salt CountyParks/QuarryParkandNaturePres u Sea Salt restaurant: Great fried fish, erveThis is one the finest nature parks beer, and ice cream just spitting in the area and include an opportunity to distance from the Minnehaha falls. not only see beautiful forested lands but u See the eagles at the National Eagle also experience swimming in a granite Center Wabasha. quarry! u Several along Main Street near St. u Rabey ATV Trail. Part of the Anthony Main offer wonderful views of Northwoods ATV Trail 200 miles of the river; Spoonriver interconnected ATV trail. u Shakespeare Festival u Raspberry Island - opportunity to be on u Skate Board Park an island in the middle of the Mississippi u Soap Factory 10-second film festival River - the working river u Soap Factory gallery u Reads Landing Brewing Company. u Soldier's Field Park Good food and beer. u Sooooo much in both of the downtowns, u Red Wing has a park on top of a bluff - but no way to get out of the River to great for hiking and views of the river. visit! u Red Wing Shoe Store and Museum u Spring Lake Park Reserve u Red Wing shopping/main street u St Cloud River Bluffs Regional Park u Red Wing to Winona u St Cloud: gardens, quarry, museum u Red Wing: Golden China, Fiesta u St Joe Farmer's Market Mexicana http://www.stjosephfarmersmarket.com/ u Reno Bottoms area - canoe trail u St John's Abbey Arboretum u Resort and Casino http://www.csbsju.edu/outdooru/abbeyar u Resorts boretumThis 2400 acre arboretum u Resorts provide s a view into what the area u Resorts looked like before the European settlers u River at Summit Ave arrived in the area and the opportunity u River Levee Trail to see one of the oldest Catholic u River Roads (East or West). Views of Benedictine Monasteries in the United the river from bluffs. States . u Riverfront Trail u St John's Pottery u Rivertown Days http://www.csbsju.edu/saint-johns- u Roadside views potteryRichard Bresnahan is the artist in u Rock Island Swing Bridge residence at St John's University and is u Rock Island Swing Bridge one of only a few American Potters who u Russell's on the Lake has been trained in Japan in the unique u and downtown sty le of the master potters of Japan. It Minneapolis from the Stone Arch Bridge is also the home of the largest wood u Saint Anthony Falls Views fired kiln in the . u Saint Anthony Falls: Most impressive u St Joseph's annual Joetown Rocks view of the river in the Twin Cities. festival that include live music, a parade, u Same comment as Minneapolis - no lots of food and fun for everyone. It's a place to get off the river to enjoy the festival that's been around for over 100 town. years. u Scenic Loop Drive/By bicycle u ST. Anthony Falls u St. Anthony Falls

9 u St. Anthony Falls provides the opportunity to experience u St. Anthony Falls (35W) Bridge great foods and an outdoor picnic u St. Anthony Falls Stone Arch Bridge environment. u St. Anthony Main u Summit Ave overlook u St. Anthony Main / Riverplace Bridge u Sunken steamboat "Andy Gibson" u St. Anthony Main restaurants provide a u Swan Park. Hundreds of the magnificent great view of the river trumpeter swans gather here in winter. u St. Anthony Main restaurants, art Great viewing and wildlife photography festivals, aquatennial, other opportunities. celebrations. u Swimming/beach u St. Cloud State University u Target Fireworks u Start of the Mississippi River u The Bachelor Farmer u Steve's House u The Barn (rest.) u Stockholm Art Festival u The Boat House a place where you can u Stockholm Arts and crafts shops eat a great meal. The food is served u Stone Arch Art Fair with flair. Prices range from fair to well u Stone Arch Bridge the taste is worth it. The view is also u Stone Arch Bridge nice come see the fall colors and watch u Stone Arch Bridge the river flow by. While eagles and other u Stone Arch Bridge birds fly south. u stone arch bridge u The Charles Lindbergh home and u Stone Arch Bridge historical site has lots of fascinating u Stone Arch Bridge information. u Stone Arch Bridge u The city in the urban area: dams, Stone u Stone Arch Bridge Arch bridge, natural gorge, easy access u Stone Arch Bridge bike/hike paths u Stone Arch Bridge u The drive south along the river and Lake u Stone Arch Bridge Pepin is scenic and has lots of u Stone Arch Bridge interesting places to stop. u Stone Arch Bridge - historic, iconic, u The Falls--the reason for Mpls connects recreational areas u The Gorge u Stone Arch Bridge and Lock and Dam u The grandkids live in Farmington, so u Stone Arch Bridge in Minneapolis they cross over the river often. I bring affords fantastic views, especially at their attention to all of the birds and sunset wildlife along the river at each point, u Stone arch bridge, mill city, farmers hopefully developing a sense of market stewardship and conservation in them. u Stone arch bridge, mill district which u The Headwaters offers history, nature, popped up due to the St. Anthony falls recreations, archeological sites and and is why Minneapolis became a city, more. It's a must see! etc. u The Mississippi gorge has great hiking, u Stone Arch Bridge/Main Street area bird watching, geology, u Stone Arch Bridge National Historic u The Mississippi River National Wildlife Landmark and Fish Refuge 261 river miles 240 u Stone arch Bridge thousand acre starting at Wabasha, MN u Summer Fest in is always a to Rockford, ILL. Truly a remarkable great place to experience the culture. Natural area. Always held the 4th weekend in July u The Onion Grille Hastings, MN u Summertime by George u The Onion in Hastings, and the new http://www.summertimebygeorge.com/th restaurant, Bella Vista, that's opening is great summer event in downtown St here as well. Cloud provides the opportunity to enjoy u The river bluff area around Winona is not only Lake George but also to great for watching eagles and other experience live music performed by birds. local artists who are well known not only locally but regionally as well. It also

10 u The river corridor between Mpls and St. u Trempealeau National Wildlife Refuge. Paul provides fantastic, well-maintained, Wildlife and waterfowl convenient, gorgeous cycling. u Trempealeau National Wildlife Refuge, u The river gorge has great color in the fall Trempealeau . White and interesting wild life all year Pelicans, egrets, herons, sand hill u The river in downtown Minneapolis is a cranes terrific asset--including one of the few u Twin cities metro spots you can walk down and u Union Depot touch the Mississippi (below Father u University of MN Centennial Showboat Hennepin Bluffs Park). u Upper Mississippi River National Wildlife u The Stone Arch Bridge, Mill City and Fish Refuge, Brownsville Overlook: Museum, Mill Ruins Park and memorial Especially in the fall, see tens of to the 35W Bridge victims are all must- thousands of migratory birds, including see destinations by the river in tundra swans, resting and feeding here. downtown Mpls. Spectacular! u The view from under the new bridge, u Upper Mississippi River National Wildlife and all along the Hastings waterfront and Fish Refuge, Aghaming Canoe u the whole corridor Trail.http://www.fws.gov/uploadedFiles/a u Theaters ghamingtrailmap_for_web.pdf u There are events for everybody here in u Upper Mississippi River National Wildlife Winona from Beethoven Festival to and Fish Refuge, Browns Marsh Canoe Shakespeare in the summer to Blue Area. Grass Concerts throughout the fall with u Upper Mississippi River National Wildlife music on the Levee Spring through fall and Fish Refuge, Brownsville Overlook. once a month. Go to the Winona u Upper Mississippi River National Wildlife Visitors site for details. and Fish Refuge, Finger Lakes Canoe u Third Street Brew house Cold Spring Trail. MN http://www.fws.gov/uploadedFiles/Finger http://www.thirdstreetbrewhouse.com/?a Lakes Canoe Trail (2011) for geverified=7fde94a177local brewery brochure.pdf that been in operation for over 100 u Upper Mississippi River National Wildlife years. and Fish Refuge, Goose Island Canoe u This area of the River is a great place to Trail. hike around with the family and the pets. u Upper Mississippi River National Wildlife Shallow areas along the river allow pets and Fish Refuge, Half-moon Landing to play in the water. Canoe Trail. u This entire river section from Monticello http://www.fws.gov/uploadedFiles/Halfm to roughly Minneapolis is a world class oon Canoe Trail (2011).pdf smallmouth bass fishery. u Upper Mississippi River National Wildlife u This is where I live. Come by and see us and Fish Refuge, Highway 26 Overlook. some time u Upper Mississippi River National Wildlife u This is where it all begins. The and Fish Refuge, La Crosse District headwaters is a must office and visitor center. Displays, u Thousands of trumpeter swans, interpretation, trails, river overlook. especially during winter u Upper Mississippi River National Wildlife u Throughout the area there are great and Fish Refuge, Lake Onalaska restaurants and resorts to stop and eat Overlook. and stay the night u Upper Mississippi River National Wildlife u Timothy's on the River and Fish Refuge, Long Lake Canoe u Tour de Pepin Trail. u Trempealeau National Wildlife Refuge. http://www.fws.gov/uploadedFiles/Long Migratory bird and wildlife observation. Lake Canoe Trail (2011).pdf Scenic wildlife drive. u Upper Mississippi River National Wildlife u Trempealeau National Wildlife Refuge. and Fish Refuge, Nelson-Trevino Canoe Deck over wetlands bordering the Trail. Mississippi. Great views. http://www.fws.gov/uploadedFiles/Nelso

11 n Trevino Canoe Trail (2011) for u Walking over the stone arch bridge and brochure.pdf near St Anthony falls with all of the u Upper Mississippi River National Wildlife unique opportunities in the area is and Fish Refuge, Reno Bottoms Canoe priceless Trail.http://www.fws.gov/uploadedFiles/r u Water Ski Days Festival, Lake City MN enobottomscanoetrailbrochure.pdf u Waterski u Upper Mississippi River National Wildlife u wayside rest and Fish Refuge, Shady Maple u Weaver Dunes. Large movements of Overlook. reptiles, mostly turtles, including the u Upper Mississippi River National Wildlife endangered Blanding’s turtle are found and Fish Refuge, Straight Slough Canoe in this area of dunes in spring. Trail. u Wier on diversion channel. Rushing http://www.fws.gov/uploadedFiles/Straig water. ht Slough Canoe Trail (2011).pdf u Wilde Roast Cafe u Upper Mississippi River National Wildlife u Wilde Roast Café - something for and Fish Refuge, Weaver Landing: everyone with a bar/cafe area, dining Overlook for observing migrating area, dessert counter, all in a fun and waterfowl. comfortable setting u Upper Mississippi River National Wildlife u Wilde Roast Cafe in St. Anthony Main is and Fish Refuge, Winona District Office: a marvelous spot to watch the river and Learn about the Refuge, obtain Refuge people. maps and public use information. Note - u Winona - no formal visitor center at this time. u Wynona u Upper Mississippi River National Wildlife u Winona area and Fish Refuge: 261 river miles from u Winona area the Chippewa River to the Quad Cities. u Winona Bluffs great in the fall with Please see our website for more changing of leaves information including maps of amenities u Winona has festivals year around such as boat landings, overlooks, canoe u Winona Shakespeare Festival and trails, and hiking trails. Concerts http://www.fws.gov/refuge/Upper_Missis u Winona Winter Carnival. sippi_River/ winonawintercarnival.com, Mid-West u Uptown restaurants, cafés, etc. Music Fest u Villa Bellezza Winery u Winona, MN Lake Lodge Recreation u Visitor's center near Prescott, WI-- Center beautiful view of the Mississippi and u Winona: Frozen River Film Festival interpretation of the confluence of the St u Winona: Marine Art Museum Croix and Mississippi u Winona: Outdoor Recreational u Wabasha -- Eagle Center opportunities are unlimited u Wabasha National Eagle Center u Winona-Old River Town u Wabasha Street Bridge. See up and u Winter Fishing Challenge on Cass Lake. down the busy river here. In February. Great prizes, good times. u Wabasha: National Eagle Center, lock u World’s Landing. Historic river crossing. and dam Great views. Nice river ramp access u walking u Wyalusing State Park u Walking over the headwaters Stories In this portion of the MetroQuest survey, participants were asked to share why the Mississippi River is important to them, using only six words.

u The river represents strength and power u Minnesota stream leads to big things u The Mississippi River refreshes the soul u Art in Lake City. History in Red Wing u Bringing Family Together u Nature in the middle of the city u Connection to history, return to roots u Love beautiful scenes as Lake City u It has fresh unpolluted potable water u Great place for canoeing and fishing

12 u Ancestor helped found Lake City u Biking along the river = good times u The River starts in my home state of u The river is home to nature Minnesota u Its major role in history & economy u Already submitted my six word story at u Our favorite fall leave tour route the Mpls Open House u The river gives identity to Minnesota u It's where I walk and think u The river still provides a route to u Great scenes, culture, history, and Americana recreation u There's always something in that river u I spent two months in a canoe on the u The river is ever changing river u It builds a sense of community u It's a natural beauty here every day! u A beautiful, hard-working, historic gem u Marks a milestone u It's where I grew Up u Remote beauty that has many accesses u Proudly flowing heartbeat of our nation u Pioneer's highway - Minnesota's u I spent many hours boating on the river birthplace u travel, nature, fishing u The River where I first sailed u Backwaters are really cool u Canoeing through the Lock u Canoeing the river = new perspective u Significant water resource; precious u Beautiful, powerful, wondrous, family, ecological treasure relaxing, inspiring u it's a natural and beautiful place u The most important American historical u Kids love walking across at headwaters. feature u I grew up along its banks u Jogging and scenery along the river u It connects in time and space u Teeming with life in all seasons u Time passes with the river flow u Love the history, nature, and beauty u Good place for rock hunting. u Enjoyable ride along the river in our u Good place for rock hunting. Mustang Convertible u Majestic, Memorable Beauty and u Water source for plants and wildlife abondable resources u It brings nature to the city u It’s the main artery of the nation u Nature close to home u it connects us to many others u It's Minneapolis/St Paul's lifeblood u Its history and multiple unique u The river leads to the Cities. recreational opportunities u It's a beautiful location. u traverses the nation north to south u A place like no other u Explore entire length by bike canoe u Trails connect Minnesota, Wisconsin, u The vigor and tolerance of the river is scenic bluffs what I wish to emulate in my own mind u I need to live by Big Water u The river IS Minnesota u Eagles nesting bringing magic heart city u It's the original reason we're all here u distinctive topography in Minnesota u It's power, it's history, it's beauty u I am awed by the view from the top of u The fishing is great Barn Bluff in Red Wing every time I hike u Connects me to it u Such beautiful waters, so many u Awe-inspiring, deep history of American memories Indians u My father loved it so u It's the artery of the heartland u the scenic beauty of the river is u River Bluffs, flowing water, abundant fascinating wildlife u Always lived 2 miles from river u The river and bluff are beautiful u Nature water peace life everyone u Hung out here when skipping school u It is a national treasure u I love boating on the river u It runs through us u The river connects us all u Place making, historic, internationally u The river brings Minnesotans together renowned, wide u It's where I learned to swim u The reason we live here u Nature History Commerce Recreation u Scenic Walks along its shoreline u Outdoor activity, bicycling, views, food, u beautiful, powerful, water resource that joy provides life

13 u I grow up on the back water of the u History, family, nature, recreation, fun, Mississippi adventure u It links communities through common u Connection to nature and past bonds. u History that is the state's future u Beautiful and fun river towns u The river is the reason we are here u The River Made Me Do It u Canoeing, swimming, boating fishing, u Natural element that brings people pondering life together u The start to something great u The water heals the soul. u It brings me to familiar places u Every generation walks the headwaters. u The river defines this place u Majestic and rich with history. u Fluid stich of history and resources u Peace and nature in the city. u Family fun along the river u Spectacular beauty in all 4 seasons u Scenery, bluff views are beautiful u Biking, Canoeing, Drinking Water, u Ecological, biological, cultural - Nature, Family significance and diversity u It connects us with boating friends! u Nature, natural waterway, natural u It connects nature and history resource u Connects me to nature in city u The backwaters are outstanding for u Great river to boat and view kayaking u I'm not from Minnesota, but I live here u Birds from far away visit me now, and I am infinitely fascinated with u Boating with friends the beauty and the boldness of the u I love to paddle the river Mississippi River. It is to other rivers u On its banks, I got engaged! what Lake Superior is to other lakes u The river connects Minnesota to u Central riverfront is center of everything Minneapolis u To thrive, we need the river u Childhood memories boating on the u I commute through a national park river with my family u National Wildlife Refuges -- Wildlife u Childhood memories boating on the Comes First river with my family u Enjoy viewing the changing seasons u Allows me to have a job u The river is a place of rejuvenation and u Starts the great Mississippi healing. u Love the many beautiful places along u It is where I grew up the river u its famous u Makes me think about our ancestors u Adds to the beauty of Minnesota u Home. Beauty. Energy. Captivating. u Where it begins. Powerful. Cleansing u Good views of life on trial! u It holds memories throughout my life u A great place to escape u Helps me know where I am u Saves me from living in Wisconsin! u The Start of Many memory’s u Biking, hiking, scenic views, and u It's where I go to fish camping u Drinking water for millions of people! u Natural corridor that defines my city u A place to relax and enjoy u Love the changing scenery, rural & u Beautiful views with family urban u Family's cabin was on Mississippi River u Summertime trail riding u The river is my prayer u Beauty and majesty of the river u Adds unparalleled amenities to the u It supports life, is national treasure prairie u There's always something new to u It is my home. It is where I work. It is a explore part of my very being. I would not be u Flushes everything south keeping north where I am without the waterways of our clean world especially the Upper Mississippi u Historical Importance River Refuge u Its natural setting is always relaxing u Memories of hiking with my family u I kayak to my heart’s content u It helps define who we are u Amazing beauty and endless fun u Grew up on the river u Flour milling and fir trading: history

14 u 3am fishing, 8am nap, noon u The falls are why Minneapolis exists deliciousness u fall colors u fun, crisp, adventure, family, WATER u Scenic beauty everywhere I look around u Connects past with future u History and nature u Rowing there shaped my college years u Family, friends and fun for all u Powerful scenery with amazing history u A fantastic natural resource u Traveled river by boat thru locks. u The river feels like home u it ties great Minnesota places together u Played there as a child Other Feedback Other comments:

u Check out what other River Organizations do. Consider the Rhine River. u I've almost always lived along the Mississippi. It's home. . . u South highway 61 needs to be done like the highway in Duluth. The existing highway should be a scenic route and a bypass (new highway for through traffic and trucks) should go over the bluffs circumventing the valley all together. u I already receive the updates and e-mails ... thank you!! u I've spent so much time near the mighty Mississippi and I think we as Minnesotan's forget how iconic the river is. It wasn't until my wife's family (from New York state) visited and made the comment, "Do you realize you live in Minnesota and cross this great (i.e. iconic) river several times a day. Do you realize how cool that is?" It was that statement that hit home. u I have a lot of history and ideas of the area u I've lived in 3 different towns/cities. But figured out once that I've never lived more than 2 miles from the Mississippi. We now also own a cabin on a lake which is a reservoir of the river. u Nice interactive website. Well done. u broaden participation with youth, minority groups assisting u The Great River Road is impressive and an important piece of America. u It is not all about the drive. It's paddling, bicycling, walking, and more. So much to see if taken at a slow pace. u Need to have a good website map of Great River Road thought the Cities, and have it indicate where temporarily closed. u Thank you! u Small 5-10 tent camp sites for cyclists along the Great River Road would be helpful for cycling tourists. u Thank you for this fabulous opportunity to share my brief Mississippi River experiences u Great survey u Thank you for trying to put a face on the river road there are changes that will come to this river valley. We need to be prepared to protect its pristine beauty. As it is there is never a moment of true silence here. What with 80 plus oil trains not to count other freight trains, Barges being pushed with Tows big diesels with screaming turbines throughout spring, summer, and fall. cars, trucks, pleasure boats jet boats, and worse of all airboats. Traffic has quadrupled in the last 5 years. The bluffs are special especially for the very people who visit here. It is mandatory that we protect all our resources into the future for all people to enjoy. u Sorry I do not have any stories u Worked with Pawpaw doing sign assessment along the entire route. Great adventure in amazingly beautiful country. We hope to return in June. Save the gravel section!

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