Life on Paws and Wheels

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...

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...

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...

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...

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:...

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...

Join Simba the Adventure Pup and me for a breathtaking day hike at Tettegouche State Park in Lake County, Minnesota! Nestled along the rugged North Shore of Lake Superior, this adventure combined two of the park’s most iconic trails — Baptism River Trail and Shovel Point Trail — into one unforgettable loop full of waterfalls, forest paths, and stunning cliffside views. 📍 Location Tettegouche State Park – Lake County, MN 🗺️ Trails: Baptism River Trail + Shovel Point Trail 📏 Distance: ~3 miles round trip 🎒 Difficulty: Easy to Moderate 🐶 Dog-Friendly: Yes — Simba gave it two muddy paws up! 🥾 Trail Highlights Baptism River Trail: A peaceful forested trail that follows the Baptism River, with opportunities to explore waterfalls, scenic bridges, and mossy riverbanks. Great for a quiet start to your adventure. Shovel Point Trail: This short but dramatic coastal hike delivers sweeping Lake Superior views from towering cliffs. With boardwalks, stairs, and incredible rock ...

Join Simba the Adventure Pup and me for a gorgeous hike through Gooseberry Falls State Park in Silver Creek Township, Minnesota! This route combines the Gitchi-Gummi Trail , Fifth Falls , and a section of the Superior Hiking Trail , offering epic Lake Superior overlooks, serene forest paths, and cascading waterfalls — all packed into a trail pup’s dream day. 📍 Location Gooseberry Falls State Park – Silver Creek Township, MN Trail Name: Gitchi-Gummi, Fifth Falls & SHT Loop 🥾 Hike Overview Distance: ~3.5-mile loop Difficulty: Moderate Trail Features: • Fifth Falls (a scenic, lesser-known cascade) • Expansive Lake Superior overlooks • Rocky outcrops, forested paths, and flowing creeks • Connection to the iconic Superior Hiking Trail We started from the main Gooseberry Falls trailhead, branched off to enjoy the peaceful solitude of Fifth Falls, then climbed to blufftop views via the Gitchi-Gummi Trail. The loop gives you a bit of everything that makes Minne...

Simba the Adventure Pup and I laced up our hiking boots (well, I did — he went paw-powered) and hit the iconic Superior Hiking Trail for an unforgettable hike to Pincushion Mountain Overlook in Grand Marais, Minnesota! 🌲⛰️ This North Shore gem delivered everything we love — rocky climbs , forest paths , wide-open summit views , and most importantly, a dog-friendly adventure Simba could wag his tail at all day long. 📍 Trail Snapshot Trail Name: Pincushion Mountain Overlook Trail System: Superior Hiking Trail Location: Grand Marais, Minnesota Distance: ~3.25 miles round trip Difficulty: Moderate Dog-Friendly: Absolutely — Simba gives it 4 paws up! 🥾 The Hike Experience The Pincushion Mountain Trail offers the perfect blend of woodland calm and elevation thrill . Starting at the trailhead just a short drive from Grand Marais, the route begins with gentle terrain before ramping up to a rugged, rocky ascent leading to a spectacular overlook . Along the way we enjoyed:...

Ever wonder where half a waterfall goes missing ? Simba the Adventure Pup and I hit the trail in Cook County, Minnesota to unravel one of the state’s most fascinating natural mysteries — the legendary Devil’s Kettle ! 🌀🌲 Located in Judge C.R. Magney State Park , this unforgettable hike leads to a double waterfall where one stream flows into the Brule River , while the other vanishes into a giant underground hole known as the Devil’s Kettle — and for decades, no one knew where it went. (Spoiler alert: science finally solved it, but it’s still magical to see in person!) 📍 Location Details Trailhead: Judge C.R. Magney State Park – Cook County, MN Trail: Devil’s Kettle Trail (~2 miles round trip) Terrain: Forested paths, staircases, river views, and waterfall overlooks Dog-Friendly: 100% yes — Simba loved every minute! 🌲 The Hike Experience The Devil’s Kettle Trail offers the perfect mix of forest serenity , physical challenge , and geological mystery : ✅ Wooden stairs an...

Simba 🐾 and I set out to explore one of the most breathtaking spots along Minnesota’s North Shore — Artist’s Point in Grand Marais. Nestled on the edge of Lake Superior, this scenic gem blends rugged beauty, small-town charm, and an endless horizon of crashing waves. Walking out along the rocky shoreline, we were greeted with sweeping views of the Grand Marais Lighthouse , the bustling harbor, and the vibrant waterfront. The jagged volcanic rocks, shaped by centuries of waves and wind, made for the perfect backdrop to our adventure footage. From the spray of the lake to the calls of gulls overhead, every moment felt alive with coastal energy. The path out to the lighthouse was a photographer’s dream — with textured stone underfoot, the lighthouse standing proudly at the edge, and the deep blues of Lake Superior stretching forever. Whether you’re snapping photos, sketching, or simply soaking in the fresh lake air, Artist’s Point lives up to its name. 📍 Location Details Artist’s Po...

On a calm and sunny day along Wisconsin’s northern coast, Simba the Adventure Pup and I took a relaxing break to explore one of the Apostle Islands' most peaceful hidden gems — Siskiwit Bay Marina in Cornucopia, Wisconsin . Set against the stunning backdrop of Lake Superior , this cozy marina offers a laid-back, picture-perfect place to stretch your legs, admire the boats, and enjoy a little lakeside serenity. It was the perfect scenic detour during our Life on Paws and Wheels RV journey. 📍 Location Info Spot: Siskiwit Bay Marina Town: Cornucopia, WI (South Shore of Lake Superior) Dog-Friendly: Absolutely! Simba enjoyed every breeze and sniff Best For: RV travelers, coastal wanderers, and anyone who loves boats, sunshine, and slow travel ⚓ What to Expect at Siskiwit Bay Marina This marina may be small, but it’s full of charm: • Peaceful views of sailboats bobbing on the water • A quaint dock system perfect for a leisurely walk with your pup • Friendly boate...

If you're dreaming of dramatic cliffs, glacial-carved caves, and the sound of Lake Superior crashing against ancient sandstone, this hike is for you. Simba the Adventure Pup and I laced up our boots (well, I did—he just wagged his tail) and hit the Lakeshore Trail from Meyers Beach to witness the stunning Sea Caves at Apostle Islands National Lakeshore near Bayfield, Wisconsin. This is one of the Midwest’s most unforgettable hikes, and the best part? It’s dog-friendly! 🐶 📍 Trail & Location Info Trail Name: Lakeshore Trail to Meyers Beach Sea Caves Location: Apostle Islands National Lakeshore – Bayfield, WI Distance: ~4.6 miles round-trip (to the main cave overlook) Trail Type: Out-and-back Dog-Friendly: Yes! On-leash only (Simba-approved!) Best For: Epic lake views, coastal hiking, and sea cave scenery 🌊 What Makes This Trail So Special? The Lakeshore Trail hugs the sandstone cliffs above Lake Superior , offering breathtaking views of the famous sea caves ca...

On this leg of our Life on Paws and Wheels journey, Simba the Adventure Pup and I ventured to Pattison State Park in Superior, Wisconsin — home to the tallest waterfall in the state: Big Manitou Falls , standing a jaw-dropping 165 feet tall ! 🌲🌊 This was one of those hikes that makes you pause, breathe it all in, and just say: "Wow." 📍 Location Details Park: Pattison State Park City: Superior, Wisconsin Trail: Manitou Falls Trail Waterfalls: Big Manitou Falls & Little Manitou Falls Dog-Friendly: 100%! Simba loved every step of this one. RV Access: Yes – easy parking for RVs and trailers. 🥾 Trail Overview: Manitou Falls Trail The Manitou Falls Trail was the perfect route to see both Big and Little Manitou Falls . This scenic path took us: • Along peaceful wooded stretches with plenty of shade ☀️🌳 • Over rustic footbridges spanning small streams and ravines • To multiple overlooks , offering dramatic waterfall views • Near the Black River Gor...

While winding through northern Wisconsin, Simba the Adventure Pup and I made a pit stop at one of the state’s most wonderfully weird roadside attractions: JFK’s World Famous Ball of Twine ! 🎉 This quirky wonder in Lake Nebagamon is a giant spool of string turned small-town legend — and it’s the perfect break from the road if you love offbeat Americana, novelty landmarks , or just need a chuckle and a photo op. 📍 Location Details Where: Lake Nebagamon, Wisconsin What: JFK’s World Famous Ball of Twine Type: Roadside attraction / Americana oddity Dog-Friendly: Yes! Simba gave it four sniffs of approval 🐾 Cost: Free to visit (donations welcome) 🎥 What We Did Simba and I snapped some great photos , recorded a quick video tour, and spent time reading the signage that gives this enormous tangle of twine its world-famous reputation. It’s part joke, part tribute to the oddball spirit of American roadside culture — and fully worth a few minutes of your time. Whether you're...

While Simba the Adventure Pup had to stay behind for this one (🐾❌ no dogs allowed on this trail), I ventured solo into one of Wisconsin’s most breathtaking hikes — the Doughboy’s Nature Trail and North Country Scenic Trail segment at Copper Falls State Park in Mellen, Wisconsin . This 1.7-mile loop packs in massive waterfalls, dramatic lava rock canyons, and photogenic footbridges — all wrapped in the peaceful sound of rushing water and rustling trees. If you're hiking sans pup, this one's a must-see Midwest gem . 📍 Trail Details Location: Copper Falls State Park – Mellen, WI Trail: Doughboy’s Nature Trail + North Country Scenic Trail segment Distance: ~1.7-mile loop Difficulty: Easy to Moderate Dog-Friendly: ❌ Not allowed on this trail Features: Copper Falls, Brownstone Falls, gorge views, river bridges 🌊 Trail Highlights 🍂 Copper Falls & Brownstone Falls: Two of the most iconic waterfalls in Wisconsin, each plunging through dark volcanic rock into n...

Simba the Adventure Pup and I laced up (well, I laced up — Simba just wagged his tail) for another pawsome day on the trail — this time exploring the peaceful and scenic Red Granite Falls Trail at Copper Falls State Park in Mellen, Wisconsin ! This lesser-known loop is a Northwoods gem full of color, calm, and classic Wisconsin beauty. 📍 Location Copper Falls State Park — Mellen, WI 🥾 Trail: Red Granite Falls Trail 📏 Distance: Approx. 2.5-mile loop 🐶 Dog-Friendly: Yes — Simba approved every step! 🕒 Difficulty: Easy to Moderate 🌲 Trail Overview The Red Granite Falls Trail is a quiet forested loop that follows the Bad River and offers up-close views of the park’s namesake red granite rock formations and cascading waters. Unlike the more crowded waterfall viewpoints nearby, this trail offers peaceful seclusion and plenty of room to roam . 🌟 Highlights Include: • Beautiful riverside walking with photo-worthy granite outcrops • Light elevation changes an...

On this leg of our Life on Paws and Wheels journey, Simba the Adventure Pup and I found a cozy, quiet hideaway in Drummond, Wisconsin — the lovely and low-key Drummond Lake Campground . Nestled near the sprawling Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest , this spot was just what we needed to reset, relax, and soak in some classic Northwoods peace and quiet. 🌲💚 📍 Location Overview Campground: Drummond Lake Campground City: Drummond, WI Type: RV and tent-friendly Nearby Attractions: Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest, hiking & fishing Dog-Friendly: Yes — Simba-approved trails and plenty of sniffing spots! Best For: Nature lovers, forest seekers, and laid-back camping 🚐 First Impressions The moment we pulled in, I knew this would be a peaceful stop. The lake shimmered in the late light , campsites were spaced out enough for comfort, and the sounds of wind through the trees instantly relaxed both of us. Whether you’re in an RV, tent, or campervan, this campground offers ea...

Come along with me and Simba the Adventure Pup as we take on one of Wisconsin’s most breathtaking hikes — the West Bluff Trail at Devil’s Lake State Park ! From high-up lake vistas to forested paths winding through ancient quartzite, this hike delivers classic Midwest scenery with a side of golden retriever joy. 🐶💛 📍 Location Devil’s Lake State Park – Baraboo, Wisconsin 🥾 Trail: West Bluff Trail (1.4 miles one way; ~3-mile loop with return) ⛰️ Elevation Gain: ~500 feet 🐕 Dog-Friendly: Absolutely — Simba was all tail wags! 🕒 Duration: 1.5 to 2 hours with stops 🥾 Trail Overview The West Bluff Trail climbs gradually from the lakeshore up to the western cliffs of Devil’s Lake. With expansive views , massive boulders , and wooded switchbacks , it’s the kind of hike that rewards every step. 🔹 Scenic Highlights Include: •  Cliffside overlooks with panoramic views of Devil’s Lake •  Unique rock formations and staircases built into the landscape •  Quiet fore...

Come along as Simba the Adventure Pup and I tackle one of the most jaw-dropping hikes in the Midwest — the East Bluff and East Bluff Woods Trail Loop at Devil’s Lake State Park in Baraboo, Wisconsin! 🐶🌊 From rugged quartzite cliffs to peaceful forest paths, this loop is a scenic stunner and a must-do hike for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and pup-powered explorers alike. 📍 Location Devil’s Lake State Park Baraboo, WI — just north of Madison 🥾 Trail: East Bluff Trail + East Bluff Woods Trail Loop 📏 Distance: ~3.5 miles round trip ⛰️ Terrain: Bluffs, rocky ledges, forest switchbacks 🐶 Dog-Friendly: Yes — Simba gives it a solid 5 tail wags! 🥾 Trail Highlights 🔹 East Bluff Trail This side of the loop climbs steadily and rewards hikers with panoramic views over Devil’s Lake’s signature turquoise waters. The trail hugs the edge of soaring quartzite cliffs with multiple overlooks for photos, snack breaks, and simply soaking in the natural beauty. 🔹 East Bluff Woods...

Come along as Simba the Adventure Pup and I explore Oz Plaza — a whimsical roadside stop in Oconomowoc, Wisconsin , that brings The Wizard of Oz to life in bronze and magic! 🌪️✨ This colorful plaza celebrates the city's claim to fame as the location of the 1939 world premiere of the film , and it’s packed with photo ops, nostalgia, and small-town charm. 📍 Location Details Oz Plaza Oconomowoc, Wisconsin 🕰️ Open year-round 💰 Free to visit 🐶 Dog-Friendly: Yes! Simba had a blast following the Yellow Brick Road (literally) 🎬 What You'll See This is a must-visit for movie buffs, classic film fans, and anyone who grew up humming “Somewhere Over the Rainbow.” The heart of the plaza is its life-sized bronze statue collection , including: 🟡 Dorothy & Toto 🔧 Tin Man 🌽 Scarecrow 🦁 Cowardly Lion 🟢 Wicked Witch of the West Every statue is wonderfully detailed, and it makes for a perfect quick photo stop or a fun walk with your pup through a slice of Americana....

Come along with Simba the Adventure Pup and me as we wander through one of Wisconsin’s most imaginative and unexpected outdoor attractions — the Bobrowitz Spectacular Sculpture Garden in Colgate, WI ! Tucked deep into nature, this 600+ piece sculpture wonderland is equal parts quirky, creative, and absolutely unforgettable. From massive metal giraffes to abstract marvels , every path winds through a new surprise — and it’s all dog-friendly too! 🐶 📍 Location Details: Name: Bobrowitz Spectacular Sculpture Garden Where: Colgate, Wisconsin Admission: Free (donations welcomed!) Hours: Daylight hours – self-guided walking tour Dog-Friendly: Yes — leashed pups are welcome (Simba loved every step!) 🎨 What to Expect: Art Meets Nature The moment you step onto the property, you’re greeted by towering sculptures , winding forest trails, and wide-open meadows dotted with playful, powerful, and sometimes downright peculiar works of art. 🦁 Giant Lions and Dinosaurs 🌀 Abstract...

Come along with Simba the Adventure Pup and me as we explore one of Wisconsin’s most scenic and peaceful trails — the Lion’s Den Trail at Lion’s Den Gorge Natural Preserve in Grafton, WI ! This dog-friendly coastal trail is a true Midwestern gem, with boardwalk paths , wooded ravines , and jaw-dropping views of Lake Michigan from atop bluffs. It’s the perfect combo of forest and shoreline — and an ideal spot for a sunny day hike with your pup! 📍 Trail Details Location: Lion’s Den Gorge Natural Preserve – Grafton, Wisconsin Trail Name: Lion’s Den Trail Loop Distance: ~1.9 miles (easy, accessible loop) Terrain: Gravel paths, wooden boardwalks, bluffs, and beach access Dog-Friendly: Yes! Simba was all smiles and tail wags 🐶 Accessibility: Great for casual hikers, families, and leashed pups 🌟 Highlights 🌊 Lake Michigan Bluff Overlooks 🌳 Shaded Forest Trails & Wooden Bridges 🪵 Boardwalks Through Wetland Habitat 🐶 Dog-Friendly from Start to Finish 📸 Incredible ...