At 5,429 feet above sea level, Panorama Point is Nebraska’s highest natural point, tucked into the far southwestern corner of the state where Nebraska, Wyoming, and Colorado quietly meet. Ranked #20 among U.S. state high points, this marked summit #34 in my ongoing high-pointing journey. And despite the name, Panorama Point isn’t about sweeping views—it’s about subtlety, solitude, and the story of getting there.
Tag: REI
The Adventure Continues: Tettegouche Redux
After soaking up the high from conquering Eagle Mountain and exploring Grand Marais, it was time to return to Tettegouche State Park and my new campsite. The drive back from Grand Marais was a pleasant hour, and I swung by the visitor center to check in again (see Part 1 of my adventure here).
My new site was further into Baptism River Campground, and I was genuinely impressed. The layout of this campground is top-notch—each site has its own space, so you’re not cheek-to-cheek with your neighbors. Of course, there was that one guy with the generator humming in the distance. I thought most of these sites had electricity? Maybe he missed the memo.
Evening came with a roaring fire, a glass of red wine, and one of my go-to camping meals: Yellow Tadka Dal from Trader Joe’s and Earthly Grains Basmati Rice from Aldi. These shelf-stable wonders were easy to whip up in my trusty cast iron skillet (a miracle I managed to pack it in my suitcase!).
Morning Visitor: The Hare-Raising Encounter
Up and at it early again! I started my day with cold brew coffee and a splash of Coffee Mate (not ideal, but it lasts longer than real half-and-half in the wild). While soaking in the peaceful morning vibes, a snowshoe hare popped by for a visit. Fun fact: In Minnesota, these hares are dark brown in summer, but their coats turn snowy white in winter—a true fashion transformation known as leucism.
Two Waterfalls, Twice the Fun
With clear blue skies overhead, I set off to see Two Step and High Falls from a fresh angle. The trailhead near Baptism River Campground gives you access to both falls, but from the opposite side of the river. I started with Two Step Falls, which came with a hefty 200-step descent—talk about earning your view!
Photos: The Trail and the Stairway to Two Step Falls
This view of Two Step Falls was absolutely breathtaking—definitely my favorite angle. I waded through the shallow waters to get up close, and was soon joined by a couple of guys with their eager dogs. I’m pretty sure the dogs were eyeing my adventure with a hint of envy, wishing they could splash around too!
As I hiked along, I came to a fork in the trail—left to the parking lot (for the non-campers) or straight ahead to High Falls. Naturally, I went for the High Falls route and was rewarded with a spacious overlook and a dramatic, pulpit-like platform. I couldn’t resist the urge to give an impromptu sermon to the forest creatures from my new perch.
Photos: High Falls Viewing Area | The Legendary Pulpit Spot!
The river views were spectacular, although the opposite side provides a better vantage of High Falls. I also came across the twisted wreckage of the swinging bridge—evidence of a storm that had made quite an impact.
Photos: Breathtaking Views of the Baptism River
Photos: High Falls from a Different Angle—Less Spectacular, but Still Stunning | The Twisted Swinging Bridge
Take Two: Shovel Point and the River Mouth
After packing up, I made my way back to the visitor center and then hiked out to Shovel Point and then to the River Mouth. What a difference a couple of days can make! With the weather finally on my side, the park was busier but still a blast. The calm Lake Superior and turquoise waters at Shovel Point were mesmerizing. I chatted with a friendly couple and admired the view.
Photos: A Calmer Lake Superior – View from the Beach | Palisade Head in the Distance
Photos: Lake Superior’s Dual Personalities—Two Days, Two Vibes!
Photos: Lake Superior – Turquoise Water and Incredible Views
At the River Mouth, I climbed onto the rocks and, to my surprise, found myself part of a FaceTime call. Seriously, do we need to share our conversations with the entire world? I quickly made my escape to the rocky beach, where I enjoyed a peaceful moment with a lone seagull. As a group of teens descended with their towels and chatter, I decided I’d had my fill of the park for now and made my exit.
Photos: The River Mouth—Totally Different Feels!
Photos: Chillin’ with a Seagull | The Baptism River—A Much Calmer Day
Palisade Head: Glad for Visit #2
As I drove out of the park on MN-61, I decided to revisit Palisade Head. This time, I drove up to the top. The area was bustling with motorcyclists, cars, and climbers. I walked around more, finally understanding the hype. The cliffs were indeed impressive, especially for climbers. I was glad I made the detour.
Photos: Palisade Head – Views Towards Shovel Point | Climbers Preparing to Conquer Palisade Head
Wrapping Up: Tettegouche State Park, What a Gem!
Who knew that a place I initially knew little about would turn out to be such a treasure? Tettegouche State Park blew my expectations out of the water, leaving me in awe of its rugged beauty and diverse landscapes. This was my first foray into Minnesota’s North Shore, and let me tell you, it definitely won’t be my last. From the thrilling hikes and awe-inspiring waterfalls to the peaceful, misty mornings by the river, Tettegouche has it all. If you haven’t made the trip yet, put it at the top of your list. Trust me, you NEED to experience this hidden gem for yourself.
Two Harbors: Campground Chaos and Sweet Treats
My next stop was Two Harbors, just a 30-minute drive down MN-61. I stayed at the Burlington Bay Campground, which was a stark contrast to Tettegouche—campsites were packed in like sardines, with zero privacy.
Photos: Burlington Bay Campground—Sardine City! | Two Harbors Beach
Craving a bit of nostalgia, I made a beeline for the 5th Street Malt Shoppe and treated myself to a scoop of Chocolate Peanut Butter with a side of Coffee Ice Cream. Back at the campground, I wrapped up the day with a glass of red wine on the beach, gearing up for my next adventure in Minneapolis.
Photos: 5th Street Malt Shoppe | My Delicious Reward!
Minneapolis Finds: Kowalski’s and More
In Minneapolis, I had to check out Kowalski’s Grocery, a renowned local chain. It did not disappoint! The pizza was tasty, though a bit light on basil. Definitely worth a visit if you’re in town. I also stopped by Goodwill to donate some camping gear I couldn’t take home—like a folding lounge chair.
Photos: Kowalkski’s in Minneapolis | Impressive Fish Counter!
Photos: Epic Prepared Goods Counter | My Pizza—Could’ve Used More Basil
Finally, I was off to the airport and then to Chicago for an REI class on Backcountry Navigation and Map Reading. Pro tip: Use TSA-approved locks for your luggage. I learned this the hard way when TSA had to cut off my lock due to my hastily purchased one not meeting their standards. Oh well!
And with that little adventure, my month-long trek through the Upper Midwest comes to an end. What a summer to remember!
Photos: A few of the Summer Highlights!
Catch you on the road!
Nestled in the heart of Wisconsin, Timms Hill, the state’s highest natural point, reaches an elevation of 1,951 feet, placing it 39th among State High Points. While it may not compete with the towering peaks of the Rockies or Appalachians, Timms Hill boasts a unique charm. Named after Timothy Gahan, a logger who camped near the hill in the late 1800s, it wasn’t officially recognized as Wisconsin’s highest point until a resurvey in the 1960s. Before then, many believed that Rib Mountain, just west of Wausau, held that title.
Takin’ the High Road
Landing in Minneapolis bright and early, I knew I had a full day ahead. First up, grabbing my camping gear from storage and letting them know I wouldn’t be needing it anymore. Next, a quick detour to REI’s flagship store in Bloomington, complete with two indoor rock-climbing towers (because why not?). I’d heard the bugs in Michigan and Minnesota were fierce, so I was on a mission to snag a head net. But with a line that felt longer than a Midwest winter, I decided to keep it simple and head to good ol’ Walmart.
Photos: REI Flagship Store in Bloomington (Minneapolis), MN
Stocking Up for Adventure
Aldi across the highway? Don’t mind if I do! I grabbed a few road trip essentials—snacks and such that would keep me fueled for the drive ahead. Next up – Trader Joe’s just outside St. Paul for a few more provisions (because, hey, variety is the spice of life), and then a final stop at Walmart in Hudson, Wisconsin, to make sure I had everything I needed, including the head net. Fully stocked and ready to roll, I pointed my rental SUV in the direction of Timms Hill, a 2-hour and 40-minute drive ahead of me.
Lost in the Woods (Sort of)
Arriving at Timms Hill County Park, I started to question my internal compass – which says a lot as I go by the nickname Rand McNally. I found a trailhead for both the Timm’s Hill National Trail and Timms Hill Trail, you’d think this was the spot! So I parked my SUV, doused myself in bug spray (no mosquito was gonna get the best of me), and headed out to check the map. Something about the place felt off, though—like showing up to a costume party only to find out it’s a black-tie affair. I drove a little further into the park, and wouldn’t you know it—there it was: the “real” parking lot, complete with restrooms, a big informational sign, and a map that made everything crystal clear. With that, the summit was a short 300-yard hike away. Easy peasy.
Photos: The Entrance off County Road RR | The Road into Timms Hill County Park
Photos: My First Stop – it’s easy to see why I assumed this was the right trailhead
Photos: The real parking lot | Complete with modern facilities
Photos: Trail Marker | The Tower Trail to the Summit
Summit Success: Selfies and Scenic Views
At the summit, I was greeted by the familiar sight of a Highpointers Foundation Bench and a mailbox with a summit register just begging for my autograph. There were two towers to choose from—one being a fire tower with a geomarker, and the other, a wooden observation tower that promised panoramic views. Though the geomarker sat on a 2-foot high concrete monolith, it wasn’t immediately obvious that it would be tucked under the fire tower.
Photos: The Highpointers Foundation Bench and Mailbox
Photos: The Concrete Monolith with the Geomarker under the Fire Tower | The High Point Geomarker
With all the highpointing formalities behind me, I made a beeline for the observation tower. Despite my love-hate relationship with heights, I couldn’t resist climbing to the top. The reward? An endless stretch of rolling hills, lush forests, and glimmering lakes that made the climb worth every step. I even played the role of summit guide, helping a friendly couple locate the geomarker.
Photos: The Stairs – Solid for Climbing | The Fire Tower Still Looms Above the Observation Tower
Photos: A Few of the Stunning Views from the Top!
Photos: The View Looking Down | Holding on for Dear Life, lol (I was actually pretty good on this tower)
After about thirty minutes of summit selfies, register-signing, and view-admiring later, I was back at my car, feeling accomplished. A quick restroom break, and I was ready to hit the road again.
Onward to New Heights
With summit #30 now under my belt, I steered the car north toward L’Anse, Michigan—close to Mount Arvon, the highest point in the state and next on my list. Three hours of driving lay ahead, not to mention a time zone change. I warned you it was a big day—I kicked things off with a 7:45 AM flight from Chicago!
Timms Hill may not have the altitude of some other high points, but it more than makes up for it with its charm, ease of access, and those killer views. Whether you’re a seasoned highpointer or just someone looking for a peaceful escape into nature, Timms Hill is well worth the trip.
Catch you on the road!
Date of Summit: 19 July 2024