2009 Twin Cities Route Info

Every year, we walkers speculate on where the route will be - what part of the Twin Cities will be walking, where we'll be camping, where our friends and families can see us. I know my supporters ask me "So what's your route?" And I can't tell them much, since, until last year, "they" don't tell us anything, other than the locations of the opening and closing ceremonies and the designated cheering stations, the latter of which aren't publicized until a couple weeks before the event. There definitely hasn't been a great deal of information provided this far in advance of the big weekend.

But this year, I'm able to pass along the following, which is available on the 3-Day website at http://www.the3day.org/. I especially want to share this with first-time walker, Barb T., who posted a comment here a couple of weeks ago, asking about the route. Barb, you're in for a real treat and one of the most amazing experiences of your life. Here's the latest "offical" scoop:

Opening Ceremony - Friday, August 21: Southdale Shopping Center in Edina (no, the mall is NOT open at 6:00 AM!)

Day 1: We'll be walking through the suburban Edina neighborhoods, around the Minneapolis chain of lakes, past the Sculpture Gardens, and the University of Minnesota. We'll finish the day walking along Summitt Avenue in St. Paul, home to the city's historic mansions. Our campsite is still a secret...(at least that's what I have to tell you)

Day 2: According to the website, we'll make our way "through the smaller communities in the area as we take in the hidden gems the Twin Cities have to offer." I don't know what that means. But I know we'll be on "great trails and pathways" as we make our way back to camp. At least they're not telling us we'll be on "gently rolling hills". (All you past participants know what I'm talking about!)

Day 3: More trail systems, magnificent views, and wonderful parkland, as the route brings us into downtown St. Paul for the emotional closing ceremony at the Minnesota State Capitol.

Closing Ceremony - Sunday August 23: The State Capitol grounds, a fabulous location, once referred to by one of the 3-Day organizers so perfectly as "Minnesota's front porch".

So it looks like we will once again have a route that will be considered one of the most scenic in all of the cities where the 3-Day is held. I'll be sure to share more as it becomes available.