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Showing posts from August, 2025

🤠 Front Street in Ogallala, Nebraska - A Stroll Through the Old West 🐾

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Saddle up! Simba 🐾 and I made a stop at Front Street in Ogallala, Nebraska , once known as the “Cowboy Capital” of the Plains. While the Cowboy Museum was closed during our visit, we still took the time to stroll the grounds and soak in the Old West atmosphere of this unique roadside stop. Even without the museum doors open, the town’s cowboy heritage shines through in its historic-looking shops, saloon-style facades, and rustic charm. 📍 Highlights from Our Visit 🚶 Walking along the Old West–themed street in downtown Ogallala 🏚 Admiring the historic storefronts and cowboy-town vibe 🤠 Soaking in the nostalgic feel of Ogallala’s wild frontier history 📸 Capturing photos and video of this quirky Nebraska roadside stop 🐾 Simba’s Adventure Simba had fun sniffing around and stretching his legs on the wooden sidewalks. Even though he couldn’t peek inside the shops, he definitely enjoyed the open-air stroll through this historic western spot. 🎥 Watch the Video Join us in th...

When Jayco Doesn't Honor Their Manufacturer Warranty

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The Purchase and the Problem In March 2025, I purchased my brand-new Jayco Greyhawk 30Z through Camping World. By May, I was on the road full-time and enjoying my travels. But just a few months later, in August, things took a frustrating turn. After arriving at a campground, I noticed one hub cap missing. A week later, two more had fallen off. That left me with three hub caps missing on a vehicle that was only a few months old. A Known Issue Naturally, I turned to Google for answers — and what I found was eye-opening. Turns out, this wasn’t just me. Many Jayco Greyhawk owners had reported the exact same issue: hub caps falling off because Jayco uses “snap-on” hub caps instead of the more reliable “bolt-on” style. This wasn’t bad luck. It was a design flaw. Seeking Help Since I purchased the RV through Camping World, I assumed they could help. I contacted several locations but got absolutely nowhere. So I turned to Jayco directly. I explained the situation, thinking surely the ...

⚰️ Stepping Back in Time at Boot Hill Cemetery – Ogallala, NE 🤠🐾

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On our Life on Paws and Wheels journey, Simba 🐾 and I rolled into Ogallala, Nebraska to visit a piece of authentic Wild West history — the Boot Hill Cemetery . Once known as the “Cowboy Capital” of the Plains, Ogallala was a bustling cattle town in the late 1800s. Boot Hill serves as the final resting place for gunslingers, cowboys, settlers, and outlaws who shaped the town’s rowdy frontier days. 📍 Highlights from Our Visit Historic Graves: Walk among the weathered markers of lawmen, outlaws, and pioneers. Frontier Stories: Read fascinating epitaphs that share tales of life — and death — in the Old West. Scenic Views: Overlook the Nebraska plains and the small town of Ogallala. Wild West Atmosphere: Feel the history come alive as you wander the grounds. 🐾 Simba’s Perspective Simba may not understand Old West history, but he sure loved the wide-open space and the prairie breeze. This is a peaceful, quiet spot — perfect for a reflective stroll. 🎥 Watch the Video 🛣 Why...

🐾 Walking in Pioneer Footsteps at Windlass Hill – Ash Hollow Historic Site, NE 🏜️

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On our Life on Paws and Wheels journey, Simba 🐾 and I made a historical stop in Oshkosh, Nebraska to explore the Oregon Trail Landmark at Windlass Hill — a place where history comes alive beneath your feet. This site marks one of the most dramatic and challenging points along the Oregon Trail , where pioneers in the mid-1800s lowered their wagons down the steep slope of Windlass Hill. Over 150 years later, you can still see the deep wagon ruts etched into the prairie, a silent reminder of their courage and grit. 📍 Highlights from Our Visit Walk the Windlass Hill Trail: Follow the same path pioneers once traveled. See Authentic Wagon Ruts: Preserved impressions from the days of westward expansion. Learn Pioneer Stories: On-site signs share the challenges of life on the trail. Enjoy Scenic Views: Rolling Nebraska hills meet endless plains. Reflect in Peace: A quiet place to connect with the human spirit of endurance. 🐾 Simba’s Take Simba loved trotting along the grassy ...

🚗 Carhenge – Nebraska’s Quirkiest Roadside Wonder! 🐾

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On our Life on Paws and Wheels journey, Simba 🐾 and I rolled into Alliance, Nebraska to see one of the most wonderfully weird attractions in America — Carhenge ! Built in 1987 by Jim Reinders as a tribute to his father, Carhenge is a faithful replica of England’s Stonehenge… but instead of massive stones, it’s made of 39 vintage cars painted gray and arranged in the exact proportions of the original monument. 📍 Visitor Highlights 39 Classic Cars: All stacked, buried, and balanced in a Stonehenge-style circle. Endless Photo Ops: Get creative shots from every angle. Learn the Story: Discover the history of how and why Carhenge was built. Free & Open Year-Round: A true open-air roadside gem! 🛣 Why You Should Visit Carhenge is part art installation, part engineering marvel, and part lighthearted Americana. Whether you’re a car enthusiast, an art lover, or a road trip adventurer, it’s a stop that’ll make you smile — and maybe scratch your head in the best way possible....

🏜 Chimney Rock National Historic Site – A Nebraska Icon on the Oregon Trail

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On our latest Life on Paws and Wheels adventure, Simba 🐾 and I rolled into Bayard, Nebraska to visit one of America’s most iconic natural landmarks — Chimney Rock National Historic Site . Rising about 325 feet above the Nebraska plains , this striking rock spire has been a guiding landmark for travelers for centuries, from pioneers on the Oregon Trail to modern-day road trippers. 📍 Visitor Highlights Stunning Views: Capture Chimney Rock from multiple angles, with sweeping prairie backdrops. Historic Significance: Learn how this landmark guided pioneers on the Oregon, Mormon, and California Trails . Photo Opportunities: Perfect sunrise or sunset shots make this stop unforgettable. Visitor Center: Explore exhibits on pioneer history, westward expansion, and local geology. 🏞 A Symbol of the West For early settlers, seeing Chimney Rock meant they were making progress on their long and dangerous journey west. Today, it’s a National Historic Site that connects visitors to th...

🌄 The Door Trail – Stepping Into the Heart of the Badlands, South Dakota

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While Simba 🐾 had to sit this one out because of pet restrictions, I couldn’t pass up the chance to hike one of Badlands National Park’s most iconic and accessible trails — The Door Trail . This short but jaw-dropping trek takes you through a gap in the Badlands Wall and straight into an otherworldly landscape of jagged peaks, colorful sediment layers, and sweeping prairie views. 📍 Trail Info Location: Badlands National Park, South Dakota Length: ~0.75 miles round trip Difficulty: Easy to Moderate Highlights: Boardwalk to rugged terrain, panoramic Badlands views, unique geology 🚶‍♂️ What to Expect on the Door Trail The adventure begins with a scenic boardwalk , perfect for an easy stroll and accessible for most visitors. Soon, the path transitions into open, rugged terrain , where you can wander among eroded spires, layered buttes, and deep gullies that look like something from another planet. Every turn offers a new panoramic view of the Badlands’ surreal landscape ,...

🐾 Wall Drug – South Dakota’s Most Iconic Roadside Attraction 🚗💨

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Simba 🐶 and I couldn’t pass through South Dakota without stopping at Wall Drug — one of the most legendary roadside attractions in America . From its humble beginnings offering free ice water in 1931 to the massive, quirky destination it is today, Wall Drug is the ultimate road trip pit stop. 📍 Location & Quick Facts Location: Wall, South Dakota Founded: 1931 — famous for free ice water! Vibe: Quirky, nostalgic, and 100% Americana Dog-Friendly: Outdoor photo ops ✔️ ✨ Highlights You Can’t Miss 🥤 Free Ice Water: The tradition that started it all. 🐇 Giant Jackalope: Climb on for a classic Wall Drug photo. 🦖 Dinosaur Statue: Perfect for a prehistoric selfie. 🎨 Western Art Gallery: Incredible paintings, sculptures, and history. 🛍️ Souvenir Shops: From cowboy hats to kitschy trinkets. 🍽️ Family Cafe: Famous for homemade donuts and hearty comfort food. 🌟 Why It’s Worth the Stop Wall Drug is more than just a store — it’s a living piece of Americana . You’ll fin...

🏔️ Black Elk Peak – Hiking to the Highest Point in South Dakota 🌲🐾

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Come along as Simba 🐶 and I take on the Black Elk Peak Trail in the stunning Black Elk Wilderness of Pennington County, South Dakota — a challenging and unforgettable adventure to the highest point in the state at 7,242 feet ! 📍 Location & Trail Overview Location: Black Elk Wilderness – Pennington County, SD Trail Length: ~7 miles round trip Difficulty: Moderate to strenuous Dog-Friendly: Yes — Simba loved every step! 🐾 This trail is the crown jewel of the Black Hills, weaving through towering granite spires, shaded pine forests, and open ridges that lead to jaw-dropping views. ⛰️ Highlights of the Hike •  Highest Peak in South Dakota: At 7,242 feet, it’s the ultimate summit in the state. •  Historic Stone Fire Lookout: A striking structure at the summit built by the CCC in the 1930s. •  360° Panoramas: On a clear day, you can see into Wyoming, Nebraska, and Montana . •  Wildlife Encounters: Keep your eyes peeled for deer, marmots, and soarin...

🏔️ Mount Roosevelt Friendship Tower – A Monument to History & Friendship in the Black Hills 🇺🇸

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Join me as I explore the Mount Roosevelt Friendship Tower in Lawrence County, South Dakota — a historic tribute set atop a scenic overlook with breathtaking views of the Black Hills. This stop beautifully blends history, nature, and a heartfelt story of friendship between two American icons. 📍 Location & Overview Near: Deadwood, South Dakota Setting: Nestled in the Black Hills National Forest Trail Type: Short, easy hike to the tower This monument isn’t just a piece of stone and mortar — it’s a lasting tribute to the bond between Seth Bullock , the first sheriff of Deadwood, and President Theodore Roosevelt . 📜 The Story Behind the Tower Built in 1919 by Seth Bullock, the Friendship Tower was dedicated to Roosevelt after his passing. Bullock and Roosevelt met during the Spanish-American War era and developed a friendship grounded in mutual respect and shared values of hard work, integrity, and love of the outdoors. 🌄 The Hike & Views The trail to the tower is...

🌄 Exploring Mount Moriah Cemetery – Deadwood’s Legendary Old West Resting Place

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Step back into the Old West with me as I explored Mount Moriah Cemetery in Deadwood, South Dakota — the final resting place of legendary frontier icons whose names shaped the history of the Black Hills. From famous gunslingers to fearless frontierswomen, this historic site is both a peaceful overlook and a living chapter of America’s wild past. 📍 Location & History •  Mount Moriah Cemetery – Deadwood, South Dakota •  Established: 1878 •  Setting: Perched high above Deadwood with sweeping panoramic views of the Black Hills More than just a cemetery, Mount Moriah is an open-air museum of the Wild West, honoring those who lived, fought, and sometimes died dramatically in the gold rush era. ⚰️ Famous Gravesites You’ll See 🔫 Wild Bill Hickok The legendary gunslinger and gambler whose life — and death — became part of American folklore. 🤠 Calamity Jane The fearless frontierswoman laid to rest beside Wild Bill, just as she wished. ⭐ Seth Bullock Deadwood...

🥾 Buzzards Roost Trail – Scenic Black Hills Hike with Simba the Adventure Pup! 🐾🏞️

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If you’re looking for one of the best hikes near Rapid City, South Dakota , the Buzzards Roost Trail in Black Hills National Forest should be at the top of your list. Simba 🐶 and I laced up, hit the trail, and were rewarded with panoramic views, peaceful forest paths, and a jaw-dropping overlook that makes every mile worth it. 🌲✨ 📍 Where to Find It Location: Near Rapid City, SD – Black Hills National Forest Trail Type: Out & Back (with optional loops) Distance: ~3.5 miles round trip Difficulty: Moderate – steady climbs with some rocky terrain Dog-Friendly: Absolutely! Simba loved it 🐾 🌲 The Hike Experience The Buzzards Roost Trail is a true Black Hills gem — combining rugged terrain, scenic overlooks, and stretches of peaceful woodland. The trail begins with a gentle forested climb before opening up to sweeping views of cliffs, rolling hills, and the valley below . Simba sniffed every pine needle in sight while I soaked in the fresh mountain air. We stopped ...

Crazy Horse Memorial 🏞️ Crazy Horse, South Dakota

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Simba and I visited the incredible Crazy Horse Memorial in Crazy Horse, South Dakota — one of the most awe-inspiring and ambitious monuments in the world. This massive mountain carving, still in progress, honors the legendary Lakota warrior Crazy Horse and serves as a powerful tribute to Native American heritage and culture. Construction began in 1948 under sculptor Korczak Ziolkowski, and when completed, the Crazy Horse Memorial will be the largest mountain carving on Earth. The sheer scale and symbolism of this site make it one of the most moving landmarks you can visit in the Black Hills. 📍 Location & Quick Facts Crazy Horse Memorial – Crazy Horse, SD • Began in 1948 and is still under construction today. • Designed to be the largest mountain carving in the world . • Features a Native American Cultural Center and the Indian Museum of North America . 🌟 Highlights from Our Visit Mountain Carving in Progress ⛰️: Watching this incredible work take shape ...

Mount Rushmore National Memorial 🇺🇸 Keystone, South Dakota

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I finally made it to one of the most iconic landmarks in America — the Mount Rushmore National Memorial in Keystone, South Dakota! This world-famous site features the colossal granite carvings of four U.S. presidents: George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt, and Abraham Lincoln. While Simba 🐾 had to sit this one out (pets aren’t allowed on the trails or inside the memorial), I explored the grounds solo, capturing photos, videos, and the sheer awe of this historic American landmark. 📍 Location & Quick Facts Mount Rushmore National Memorial – Keystone, SD • Completed in 1941 , sculpted by Gutzon Borglum and later his son Lincoln Borglum. • Faces stand 60 feet tall on the granite cliffs of the Black Hills. • Over 2 million visitors per year come to see this monumental piece of history. 🌟 Highlights from My Visit Avenue of Flags 🇺🇸: A patriotic walkway lined with all 50 state flags, leading you directly to the memorial. Presidential Trail...

World’s Largest Bigfoot 🦶 Keystone, South Dakota

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Simba 🐾 and I made a quirky stop in Keystone, South Dakota to see one of the most unforgettable roadside attractions in the Black Hills — the World’s Largest Bigfoot! 📍 Location & Attraction Standing at over 22 feet tall , this massive wooden Bigfoot sculpture towers above the landscape, making it hard to miss. Keystone is already a popular stop near Mount Rushmore , but this giant Bigfoot adds an extra dose of fun, mystery, and roadside Americana to your South Dakota adventure. 🦶 Why You Should Visit The World’s Largest Bigfoot is the perfect stop for: 📸 Photo ops — strike a pose next to this towering cryptid. 🤩 Roadside weirdness — embrace a little quirk on your Black Hills road trip. 🚗 Road trip memories — Keystone is full of unique attractions, and Bigfoot definitely tops the list. Simba had a blast sniffing around the area while I grabbed photos and video footage. We couldn’t stop laughing at just how huge this sculpture is — definitely a roadside legend in it...

McDonald’s Quarter Pounder Monument 🍔 Rapid City, South Dakota

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On our latest quirky stop, Simba 🐾 and I headed to Rapid City, South Dakota to check out one of the most unexpected roadside attractions in the Midwest — the McDonald’s Quarter Pounder Monument! 📍 Location & Story Located right outside a McDonald’s in Rapid City, this giant bronze sculpture of a Quarter Pounder with Cheese is not your average roadside statue. The monument was unveiled in 2021 to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Quarter Pounder —an icon of American fast food culture. This fun landmark blends pop culture, fast food history, and classic roadside Americana all in one deliciously photogenic package. 🍔 Why It’s Worth a Stop The Quarter Pounder Monument is perfect for: 📸 Photo ops : Strike a pose with your pup, just like I did with Simba! 🤩 Pop culture lovers : Celebrate an iconic McDonald’s burger in the quirkiest way possible. 🚗 Road trippers : Add a little fun to your South Dakota itinerary. Simba might not have been able to sample the burger, bu...

🛣️ Enchanted Highway Road Trip – Giant Sculptures & Prairie Whimsy with Simba the Adventure Pup! 🇺🇸✨

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If you're the kind of traveler who loves quirky roadside attractions , big art , and wide open skies , then this one's for you! Simba the Adventure Pup and I road-tripped down North Dakota’s famous Enchanted Highway , and it was everything we hoped it would be — whimsical, weird, wonderful… and totally unforgettable. 🐾🎨 📍 What Is the Enchanted Highway? The Enchanted Highway is a 32-mile stretch of road between Gladstone and Regent, North Dakota , featuring seven massive metal sculptures created by local artist Gary Greff. These towering installations rise from the rolling prairie and make the drive feel like a trip through a roadside dreamland. Each sculpture has a pull-off for parking, so you can hop out, explore, and snap some epic photos — and yes, it’s all dog-friendly , so Simba was right there wagging his tail at every stop! 🐶❤️ 🌟 Featured Sculptures We Visited: 🦆 Geese in Flight This enormous piece holds the Guinness World Record for the largest scrap met...

🏞️ Point to Point Trail – A Peaceful Hike Through North Dakota’s Badlands

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Sometimes the best hikes are the quiet ones — just you, the trail, and miles of untouched beauty. On this leg of our North Dakota journey, I (Ash) took on the Point to Point Trail near Medora , with Simba the Adventure Pup resting back at the campground after a string of no-dog trails in the park. 🐾💤 Though I missed having my trail buddy beside me, this solo adventure through the Badlands of Theodore Roosevelt National Park was full of big views, quiet reflection, and rugged prairie vibes that made it unforgettable. 📍 Location Point to Point Trail – Just outside Theodore Roosevelt National Park, near Medora, ND 🥾 Trail Details Distance: ~3.5–4 miles round trip (depending on turnaround point) Trail Type: Out-and-back Difficulty: Easy to Moderate Dog-Friendly: No (hence Simba’s well-earned rest!) Terrain: Rolling hills, grasslands, and wide-open Badlands beauty 🌄 Trail Highlights From the moment you step onto the trail, it’s all about space, silence, and those expa...

🌬️🏞️ Wind Canyon Trail – Solo Sunset Hike Through North Dakota’s Badlands

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Sometimes the most peaceful hikes are the quiet ones — just you, the wind, and the wide-open sky. While Simba the Adventure Pup had to sit this one out (🐾❌ not dog-friendly), I laced up my boots for a solo trek along the stunning Wind Canyon Trail in Theodore Roosevelt National Park , and it was nothing short of spectacular. 📍 Location Wind Canyon Trail – Theodore Roosevelt National Park, Billings County, North Dakota 🥾 Trail Details Trail Type: Short loop Distance: ~0.4 miles Difficulty: Easy Dog-Friendly: No (sorry, pups!) Best Time: Sunset — absolutely breathtaking 🌄 What Makes It Special This short but mighty trail winds along the edge of a wind-carved canyon with jaw-dropping views of the Little Missouri River and golden Badlands bluffs . The trail is well-marked and mostly flat, making it accessible for all skill levels — but it’s the sunset views that really steal the show. You’ll find scenic overlooks, peaceful solitude, and a humbling sense of scale as th...

World’s Largest Prairie Chicken 🐔🌾 Rothsay, Minnesota Roadside Fun

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On our latest mini trip, Simba and I headed to Rothsay, Minnesota —home of the quirky and iconic World’s Largest Prairie Chicken! This giant statue is more than just a fun photo op—it’s a symbol of Minnesota’s prairie heritage and small-town pride. 📍 The Location Rothsay, MN may be a small town, but it proudly holds the title of “Prairie Chicken Capital of Minnesota.” Right off the highway, you’ll spot this towering tribute to the prairie chicken, a bird native to the grasslands and celebrated as part of the region’s natural and cultural history. 🐔 The Giant Prairie Chicken The World’s Largest Prairie Chicken stands at an impressive height, instantly catching the eye of travelers passing through. Built in 1976, the statue honors the importance of prairie chickens to Minnesota’s heritage and ecology. For those who love roadside Americana, it’s the perfect place to stop, stretch your legs, and snap some quirky travel photos. 🌟 Why Visit? Whether you’re a road trip enthusiast,...

🎮🌟 Level Up at the Fargo Mario Wall! A Street Art Tribute to Gaming Nostalgia

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While wandering the streets of Fargo, North Dakota, I stumbled across something absolutely Super — the Fargo Mario Wall ! 🎨👾 Nestled in the heart of downtown, this colorful and quirky mural is a must-see for retro gaming fans, art lovers, and anyone with a soft spot for 8-bit adventures. With bold pixel-style graphics and vibrant nods to Nintendo’s legendary plumber, this piece of public art instantly transported me back to the golden days of Game Boys and couch co-op. And though Simba the Adventure Pup had to sit this one out, I had a blast soaking up all the creative energy this hidden gem has to offer. 📍 Location Fargo Mario Wall – Downtown Fargo, North Dakota Easy to find, easier to love. 🎨 What to Expect • Iconic Super Mario imagery brought to life in vivid mural form • The perfect "say cheese!" photo backdrop for gamers and Instagrammers alike • Nostalgic vibes straight out of the Mushroom Kingdom • A fun, unexpected find while exploring Fargo’s do...

🎬🪓 Chipper Encounter in Fargo! Visiting the Famous Wood Chipper from the Movie Fargo

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While Simba the Adventure Pup took a well-deserved rest (not every stop is pup-approved 🐾❌), I ventured solo into one of the Midwest’s quirkiest — and most delightfully macabre — roadside attractions: the Fargo Wood Chipper in Fargo, North Dakota ! 🎥 What Is It? If you’ve seen the 1996 Coen Brothers’ dark comedy Fargo , you’ll immediately know the scene . The one involving a wood chipper, a snowy lakeside, and a foot sticking out… At Fargo’s Visitor Center , the original movie prop from that unforgettable moment is now on display — complete with: • The real wood chipper used in filming • A leg prop for photo ops (yes, really) • Fargo movie memorabilia, trivia, and fun facts • A chance to “step into the scene” — minus the crime 📍 Location Fargo Visitor Center – Fargo, ND Conveniently located with plenty of parking and a warm welcome for movie buffs, pop culture fans, and travelers in search of something… different. 💬 Why It’s Worth a Stop • It’s...

🪓🐾 Paul Bunyan Road Trip with Simba the Adventure Pup: Legendary Stops Across Minnesota! 🌲🚐

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On this mini series of Northwoods adventures, Simba the Adventure Pup and I set out to follow the larger-than-life footsteps of Paul Bunyan and his loyal sidekick Babe the Blue Ox — and what a journey it was! From towering statues to legendary gravesites, this dog-friendly folklore trail was packed with quirky Americana, scenic detours, and plenty of paws-on fun. 📍 Stop 1: Paul Bunyan Park – Bemidji, MN Our legendary quest began in Bemidji , home to the iconic lakeside statues of Paul and Babe. These 1937 statues are one of the most photographed roadside attractions in the U.S. and an absolute must-visit! We also explored: •  Niiemii (“Dancing Indian”) sculpture • The majestic statue of Chief Shaynowishkung (Chief Bemidji), adding cultural depth to this lakeside park 🐶 Simba’s Take: Loved the lake breeze and the wide-open green space — tail wags all around! 📍 Stop 2: Paul Bunyan’s Grave – Kelliher, MN From Bemidji, we ventured deeper into the forest to visit...

🍩🐾 Sweet Stop on the North Shore: World’s Best Donuts in Grand Marais, MN! ☕🌊

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On our North Shore adventure through Grand Marais, Minnesota , Simba the Adventure Pup and I made a tasty detour to the one and only World’s Best Donuts — and we’re here to tell you: the hype is real! Whether you’re a donut traditionalist or a pastry adventurer, this iconic family-owned bakery has something to satisfy your sweet tooth. 📍 Stop Details Location: World’s Best Donuts – Grand Marais, MN 🍴 Must-Try Items: Skizzle (fried dough perfection!), maple bacon long johns, cake donuts, Bavarian cream 🐶 Dog-Friendly: Outdoor seating only — Simba enjoyed the lake breeze and donut smells! 📸 Highlights: Small-town charm, colorful storefront, Lake Superior views, and mouthwatering donuts 🍩 What Makes It the “World’s Best”? World’s Best Donuts has been serving locals and travelers since 1969, and stepping into their red-and-white striped shop feels like a nostalgic hug. The Skizzle , a fried flat dough dusted with cinnamon sugar, is legendary. Their cake donuts are crisp outs...

🧲🐾 Hiking to Magnetic Rock with Simba the Adventure Pup — A Northwoods Geology Adventure! 🌲⛰️

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Join Simba the Adventure Pup and me as we venture deep into Superior National Forest to hike the unforgettable Magnetic Rock Trail — a North Shore favorite filled with rugged beauty and an incredible magnetic mystery. Located near Grand Marais, Minnesota , this 3-mile out-and-back hike leads to a towering 60-foot slab of magnetite that can actually move a compass needle. Yes — it’s that magnetic! 🧭🐕 📍 Trail Details Location: Magnetic Rock Trail – Grand Marais, MN 🗺️ Route Type: Out-and-back 📏 Distance: ~3 miles round trip 🥾 Terrain: Rocky, uneven, scenic 🐶 Dog-Friendly: Absolutely — Simba loved every step! 🌲 What Makes Magnetic Rock So Special The trail starts with sweeping Northwoods views and quickly immerses you in a unique landscape of burned forest recovery, bedrock ridges, and rocky pathways . At the end? A giant vertical rock tower made of magnetite — a naturally magnetic mineral that gives this trail its name. Bring a compass and try it out! You’ll see...

🍁⛰️ Hike the Iconic Oberg Mountain Loop with Simba the Adventure Pup! 🐾🌲

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Come along as Simba the Adventure Pup and I hike the breathtaking Oberg Mountain Loop via the Superior Hiking Trail — one of the most scenic short hikes along Minnesota’s stunning North Shore. Located just outside of Tofte in the Superior National Forest , this trail is a 2.3-mile loop that delivers panoramic views, crisp forest air, and seasonal color that’s hard to beat in fall. 🍂 📍 Trail Info Location: Oberg Mountain – Tofte, MN 🗺️ Trail: Oberg Mountain Loop via Superior Hiking Trail 📏 Distance: ~2.3-mile loop 🎒 Difficulty: Moderate (short but with some elevation) 🐶 Dog-Friendly: Absolutely — Simba gives it 4 paws up! 🐾🐾🐾🐾 🌄 Why Hike the Oberg Mountain Loop? If you’re looking for maximum views with minimal mileage , this trail is for you. Within just a couple miles, you’ll hit several dramatic overlooks that showcase the Sawtooth Mountains , Lake Superior , and an endless expanse of Northern Minnesota wilderness . 🥾 Trail Highlights Lake Superior Views:...

🐶🌊 Hike the Temperance River Hiking Club Trail with Simba the Adventure Pup! 🌲🐾

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Join Simba the Adventure Pup and me on a scenic North Shore adventure through Temperance River State Park in Tofte, Minnesota! The Temperance River Hiking Club Trail is packed with jaw-dropping beauty — from thundering waterfalls to forested ridgelines and deep rocky gorges. It’s one of our favorite hikes along the Lake Superior coast and a must-do for trail-loving humans and pups alike! 📍 Location Temperance River State Park – Tofte, MN 🗺️ Trail: Hiking Club Trail (loop) 📏 Distance: ~4 miles 🎒 Difficulty: Easy to Moderate 🐾 Dog-Friendly: Yes! Simba gives it five paws 🐾🐾🐾🐾🐾 🥾 Trail Highlights Temperance River Gorge: The trail starts off strong with dramatic views of the river rushing through sheer rock walls — carved by thousands of years of water flow. Don’t miss the upper and lower waterfall viewpoints! Pine-Covered Ridge Walks: Once you ascend past the gorge, the trail opens into peaceful forest ridgelines with sweeping views and perfect spots to pause and so...