Cragies and Snacks

Mountain Project describes Tettegouche as the crown jewel of Minnesota climbing.  Strong words considering that there are over 2,200 charted routes.  Then again, of the top 15 routes in Minnesota, 6 are in the Tettegouche.

Minnesoooooooooooooooota!

I love Minnesota, I would move there in a heartbeat if the opportunity presented itself.  It gives me strong Northern Michigan vibes but with bigger cities and more rocks to climb!  I like the nickname ‘Land of 10,000 lakes’ not only does it sound inviting, it’s also accurate, being that there are 11,843 lakes in this great state. The one thing that I am a little confused by is the Twin Cities (maybe that should count as two things).  The Cities are great, I have no issue with them, it’s the names that I think could use some work.  Since when do we name twins such drastically different names?  Minneapolis and St. Paul barely sound like family, let alone twins.  Pete and Paul would make sense.  Perhaps Mickey and Minneapolis?  Maybe Minneapolis and Maxeapolis?  However, that last one could lead to an inferiority/superiority complex.  The point is the names don’t match.  Personally, I’d keep Minneapolis and Change St. Paul, but it’s too late, all we can do now is change them both, and I have the perfect solution to the problem.  I present to you, Mary-Kate and Ashley, Minnesota.

Back to climbing!

Tettegouche consists to two primary climbing areas, The Palisade Head and Shovel Point.  Shovel Point has the easier routes, and Palisade has the tough stuff.  You’ll have to determine what’s best for you based on your preferences, but this is not a place to be overlooked!

Right on the coast of Lake Superior, Tettegouche offers some of the most beautiful cliffside views in the entire country.  The routes are primarily Top-Rope and Trad since drilling is prohibited in the area, but there are plenty of options for anchors and gear.  I’m recommending a day at Palisade Head since there are nearly 90 routes and almost half of them are rated between 3 and 4 stars.  You’ll find everything from 5.8 – 5.14, and each route more beautiful than the next.  Try not to miss Superior Arete and Mack the Knife, both are classic routes with breathtaking views.

As always, working up an appetite at the cragie is a must, because it makes refueling with some snackies all the better!

Two One Ate Sweets and Treats is a stunning 6-mile drive along the beautiful coast of Lake Superior down HW 61.  While Two One Ate may be known primarily for their desserts and homemade ice cream, they offer a delicious all-day breakfast and lunch menu!

The primary food options are an array of sandwiches, from breakfast croissants to classic burgers and subs!  In addition, you can also find salads, smoothies, and bowls.  My best advice is to go light on the entrée so you can go big on the dessert.

I know it may not be the most exciting recommendation I’ve ever made, but I LOVE oatmeal.  So I am going with the Loaded Oatmeal Bowl which includes rolled oats, banana, strawberry AND blueberry (I can’t pass up three fruits in one bowl) then topped with cream or almond milk.  The Sunflower Veggie sounds amazing and so does the Meatball Sub, but I just can’t pass on delicious, rolled oats.  Especially knowing that Homemade Ice Cream is coming up next!

BUTTER NUTZ!  Peanut butter and cookie butter ice cream with butterfingers and maple covered peanuts.  Come on!!!  How can this be beat.  Two One Ate offers at least 20 additional flavors including Black Raspberry and Lake Superior Splash so if Butter Nutz isn’t your thing, you will have plenty of other options!

The toughest decision comes with an enticing assortment of options.  Do you want a couple of scoops?  A shake or Malt?  How about a sundae or float?  It’s a tough decision, but ultimately, I’d go with a Butter Nutz malt before heading over to the dessert case in order to pick up an extra little snackie for the road!  The dessert options change daily, so you’ll have fresh delectable options to choose from no matter when you go.  If you’re lucky, the chocolate peppermint cookies will be on hand.  But, no matter when you go owner’s Heidi and Chuck Thompson will be offering something equally as scrumptious.

From 5.8 to Two One Ate, Tettegouche cragies and snackies will have you pumped!

Location: Beaver Bay, MN “Land of 10,000 Lakes”

Crag: Tettegouche

Restaurant: Two One Ate

Distance: 6 Miles