Purple is often overlooked in the brilliance of fall colors. Wrongly so, because the royal hues of asters against rudbeckia is nature’s gift to autumn. On top of that, when I asked my husband what color he associates with Minnesota—which is where we’re headed for our 2020 Octoberfest Brewery Tour—he automatically said purple. I don’t think he had asters on his mind.
So, yes, it’s that time of year again. It’s when I close up shop, turn our house over to the kids, and we take off for our seasonal celebration of sipping and scenery.
This year, we’re social distancing on Michigan, Wisconsin and Minnesota’s northern shores (that is if Wisconsin’s notorious COVID count doesn’t prohibit us from traveling). Our highlights will be scenery over sipping, and the later will likely be out of a cooler instead of a brewery. However, if we do make a stop—or maybe you’re looking to—here’s the The Cabin’s Brew-Sconsin or The Minnesota BeerCast for suggestions.
Our Itinerary
(sort of—we’re a bit happenstance in our travels)
- Black River Harbor Recreation Area
I’m Michigan born and bred, which means you can’t fully take the mitten off my hand or out of my heart. U.P. Ironwood, here we come! - Morgan Falls and St. Peter’s Dome
The highest point in the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest. Will there still be color? No matter, we’re easy to please. - Duluth, MN
Hoping the outdoor dining scene is still happening. Any suggestions for this fun city? - Gooseberry Falls and Split Rock Lighthouse
Everyone says these are must-do’s. Definitely on our list. - Grand Marais Harbor Walk
Is it Maray or Marigh? I can never remember. I’ll just keep singing this song. - Gunflint Trail
A fan of Peter Geye, I’m looking forward to reading Northernmost. And hiking the Gunflint Trail.
Speaking of purple—here it is, hot off the press!
Asters…Oktoberfest beer…true signs of autumn. And here’s my poster, a great commemoration of our trip. I’ve even included a compass and rhumb lines to navigate our way.
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