Recently, a fellow pilot friend invited me on a special trip to Grand Marais, a wedding gift for his newlywed friends. I was thrilled to join as his co-pilot, knowing we’d get to enjoy not only the flight but also the beautiful scenery along the way.

Taking Off from Crystal

We departed from Crystal on a warm Friday afternoon—perfect flying weather. The skies were clear, and with a helpful tailwind, we completed the journey in under an hour. As a co-pilot, I wasn’t at the controls this time but took charge of the radios. It was an interesting shift in responsibility, as I had to stay alert with air traffic communication, ensuring smooth navigation while my friend flew the plane.

Over Duluth: A Bird’s-Eye View

As we flew over Duluth, I pointed out Sky Harbor Airport to our passengers. It’s always a thrill to see familiar places from above, especially when they’re as picturesque as Duluth, nestled between the hills and the vast expanse of Lake Superior.

Arrival in Grand Marais: Exploring the Shoreline

Upon landing at Grand Marais, we picked up the courtesy car from the Fixed Base Operator (FBO) and made our way into the heart of the city. Grand Marais sits along the rugged shores of Lake Superior, and we were greeted by the cool, crisp lake breeze as we explored the shoreline.

One of the highlights was walking along the iconic breakwater that leads to the Grand Marais lighthouse. The waves lapped against the rocks, and the view was breathtaking. The peacefulness of the lake was the perfect backdrop to our adventure.

Pizza by the Lakeshore and Sweet Treats

As the evening rolled in, we grabbed dinner from the local favorite, Sven & Ole’s Pizza. The combination of delicious pizza, live music, and the gentle sound of waves made it a perfect way to unwind by the lakeshore.

Before heading back to the airport, I made a quick stop at Beth’s Fudge Shop to pick up some chocolate fudge—an absolute must if you’re ever in Grand Marais. It made for the perfect souvenir to bring home to my wife.

The Journey Back: A Lesson in Winds

After a delightful time in Grand Marais, we returned to the airport. By the time we arrived, it was dark. On our return flight to Crystal, we noticed that the tailwind we enjoyed on the way up had shifted into a strong headwind.

We quickly realized our return trip would take twice as long, so we stopped at Duluth International Airport (KDLH) to refuel. Here, we took a much-needed break, sipping water and enjoying some freshly baked cookies.

A Magical Return Flight

Our return flight was nothing short of magical. The sky was illuminated by a supermoon, casting a soft glow over the landscape. The city lights sparkled against the dark backdrop of the Midwest farmlands, creating a stunning visual that left us in awe.

Share Your Thoughts!

This journey was an unforgettable experience, filled with adventure, delicious food, and beautiful sights. I encourage you to share your thoughts in the comments below! Have you ever taken a memorable trip that left you with lasting memories? What’s your favorite part of traveling? Let’s hear your stories!