(For children of all walking ages.)

McGregor, IowaFriday - Monday, October 10 - 13, 2003

Join us for a celebration of the season at the confluence of the Mississippi and Wisconsin rivers, where Native Americans of the Woodland Culture (800 to 1200 A.D.) sculpted earthen mounds on ridge tops to celebrate their oneness with Mother Earth. Many remain as monuments and reminders to us that we are of the earth also. Stay in The Alexander Hotel, a small hostelry in McGregor, an historic riverfront town likely to take you back in time.

ITINERARY

Friday afternoon, after checking into the Alexander, walk to McGregor Heights. Dinner in the hotel dining room (optional).

Saturday, after breakfast depart for Wyalusing State Park, Wisconsin – Wyalusing, on the Mississippi River bluffs, is rich in history and natural beauty. Inhabited by people since 9000 BC, some of the most interesting occupants were the mound-building Woodland Indians. Wyalusing is an Indian word meaning “Home of the Warrior.” A special Saturday night dinner is planned for you.

Sunday visit Effigy Mounds National Monument with a climb to Fire Point viewing different mounds along the way. Sometimes we see eagles on one of the river islands. Have your trail lunch along the river. Afternoon options include: Visit the Villa Louis estate, built by a river trader; hike to Marching Bears mounds; do your own thing. Sunday evening go down river to the Clayton Lighthouse for dinner.

Monday, hike into Pikes Peak State Park from McGregor. Explore and have lunch at the top, enjoying the view of the confluence of the Wisconsin and Mississippi Rivers from the highest bluff on the Mississippi, until it’s time to head home.

This tour includes lodging, breakfasts, trail lunches, Saturday dinner and guided hiking.

Tour Fee: 1st adult in room, $495; 2nd adult in room, $175; for each child 14 and under, $85. Reservation deadline: September 1, at which time the full fee is due.

Note: Reservations for this tour limited to adults with children until August 17, after which it is open to all (no children without adults).