Fall is the perfect time to explore the Minnesota landscape from the sky, as the vibrant colors of the season paint a stunning picture. This time, my wife and I, along with my college friend and his wife, took a trip up north to admire the fall colors from above. Our destination: Duluth, a city we hold close to our hearts. Here’s a recap of our memorable flight and the places we revisited.

A Late Start to the Adventure
We set out for our flight after work, knowing we’d be racing against the sun. By the time we reached the airport and took off, it was already close to 6 p.m. As we ascended into the sky, the sun was dipping low on the horizon, creating a stunning backdrop of warm hues.

A Sunset Like No Other
As we headed north, the sky transformed into a canvas of reds, oranges, and pinks. We caught glimpses of the fall colors, but soon the sunset became the main attraction. Even as the colors on the ground faded, the sky made up for it with a dramatic display of nature’s beauty.

Touching Down in Duluth: A Nostalgic Visit
With daylight fading, we decided to extend the adventure by landing in Duluth. Returning to Duluth always brings back fond memories, as both my friend and I attended college there. We touched down at Sky Harbor (KDYT) airport, where the runway appears to float on the lake—an unforgettable sight.

Since my last visit, the airport had completed its new FBO (Fixed Base Operator) facility. The cozy space offered a pilot room for flight planning, a kitchenette, and a welcoming seating area. It’s a small but refreshing place to stop and rest.

Revisiting Old Stomping Grounds
We borrowed the courtesy car from the FBO and drove through Duluth, retracing the routes we used to take during our college days. Of course, no trip down memory lane would be complete without a visit to Fitger’s—a brewery and restaurant we frequented in our younger years. After a hearty meal filled with laughter and nostalgia, it was time to head back.

The Magic of a Night Flight
With the day behind us, we returned the courtesy car and prepared for our night flight back to Crystal. There’s something magical about flying at night—the darkness of the Midwest contrasts sharply with the twinkling lights of the cities below. The view from above felt like a calm end to an eventful day.

Conclusion:
This trip north wasn’t just about the fall colors—it was a journey through memories, wrapped in the beauty of the Minnesota sky. Whether it’s the vibrant hues of the landscape, the charm of Duluth, or the peaceful quiet of a night flight, this journey reminded me that flying offers a unique perspective on both nature and life.