The Lakewalk - Duluth, MN.
Written: Sep 19 '00 (Updated Sep 22 '00)
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Product Rating:
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Pros: Watching the people, the beauty of the lake splashing up over the rocks.
Cons: Would be really cold in the winter.
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| shartion's Full Review: Minnesota |
Review Topic: Sights & Attractions
As I sit here on a weathered, wooden, wrought-iron bench, I'm lost in total wonder. As the seagulls screech their loud cries overhead and the horses prod along, over the gravel paths, I'm comforted to know I'm in this place relaxing to the fullest.
It's September in Duluth, Minnesota, and I'm here on the Lakewalk overlooking Lake Superior. The Lakewalk is one of the most popular places in Duluth. It runs for over a mile along Lake Superior and whether you're walking or just sitting on one of the many benches provided, you'll be able to achieve the calming spirit here as others before.
The tourists ride by in the open top buggies, laughing, talking and trying to take in the entire scene as they move by. Little children's heads turn quickly so as not to miss any of the sights before them. On the lake, a water skier loses his hold and plunges into the water sending up bullets of water; soon, he's back up and throws his head back as though feeling free as the breeze on which he glides.
Another buggy approaches; this time a little red one. I follow the steady gaze and flashing smile of its passenger - a tiny, tousled-hair child; her daddy pleasingly playing his role as chauffeur to this treasured little girl.
Two teen boys emerge the scene as they consume ice cream - one taking in the scene surrounding him, the other completely oblivious to anything other than the cone he's enjoying to its fullest.
A couple comes toward me, walking arm in arm and I feel the sudden loneliness of my husband's absence from this trip.
Leashed dogs, people on rollerblades, children playing on rocks, swimmers jumping into the lake off the high platform of an old coal-unloading dock from years gone by, and bikers are all part of this scene of which I've become a part. A young women sitting on a rock below me with a child points to the lake, the airy clouds, the clear blueness of the sky and birds flying overhead. She seems as much in awe of this place as the child in which she is cradling. I find it difficult to pull myself from the entire scene.
After two hours, I start back to my room at the hotel. I notice an elderly couple, slower in their steps than the others; it may be due to their physical limitations, but from their gaze on the scene, I believe it's because they've gained the wisdom in their long lives to know there's no need to hurry. The "Lake Superior Lakewalk" is just the place for them. The place to enjoy life as it happens.
I stop and talk to a couple of musicians setting up for the evening. When not playing for weddings or other affairs, they're down to the Lakewalk every evening sharing their music. Zorba Jazz is the name of this group. As I talk to them, I find they have been playing in that exact area for seven years. Their payment..the enjoyment of sharing their art with others.
I'm back to the Lakewalk at dusk. The sun is setting and I see the tips of a sail as its boat glides into its home for the night. As the old fashioned lamps on the Lakewalk light the area, I hear the music of the jazz musicians I'd talked to earlier.
I notice the softly lit candles they use to see their music. Paul, on his acoustic bass and John on the tenor sax, clarinet or flute send out enjoyable listening music adding to the ambiance of this place. I take note of the instrument case set out in front waiting for those who wish to contribute to the art this group provides. This night, an eighteen year old singer, guitarist, Ben Grosscup joins them. His looks are more suited for a "rock band" but his voice resounds over the area as he belts out a couple of songs with his strong, melodic voice - songs created long before he was born.
Walkers come and go. Some stop and sit on the benches on the Lakewalk or listen to the sounds of the night from their patios and decks from the hotels located here. A large ship pulls in with its lights joining the red one from the lighthouse beyond.
The Lakewalk consists of a paved path, wooden walkway, and the gravel road which carries along the constant stream of the horses pulling carriages. Strolling along this walk takes you to informative plaques which explain the history of the area and a Mosaic ImageWall. There's a Vietnam Veteran's Memorial to honor area members from the armed services who served in Vietnam.
The Lakewalk is part of the Canal Park area with its unique shops, entertainment and restaurants. Visit the art galleries, book stores and souvenir shops near by but when you get tired, head back to the Lakewalk for your relaxation.
*I wouldn't recommend spending too much time on the Lakewalk in the winter months as it gets extremely cold. Duluth does have many activities in the winter months though for you to enjoy. The spring, summer and early fall when the leaves are changing their colors are all excellent times for the Lakewalk.
*The price you'd spend per day would depend on whether you were there for the day or for a few days in which you'd have to provide lodging. We paid $149.00 for a hotel right on the Lakewalk. It was a large room complete with patio and continental breakfast. Prices of food vary depending on your eating habits. Many of the hotels have refrigerators and microwaves. I'd suggest a picnic on the Lakewalk.
*Watch the weather. It can change very quickly in Duluth. Jackets are strongly suggested. We once went to Duluth on a beautiful summer day where it was 85 degrees here (only 2-1/2 hours from Duluth). We arrived to rain, wind and temperatures of 65 degrees. Be prepared!
Recommended:
Yes
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Epinions.com ID:
shartion
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Location: Mpls.MN
Reviews written: 49
Trusted by: 76 members
About Me:
"Be glad for Life; It invites us to Love, to Play, to Dance upon stars."
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