Journalists in the United States on a fellowship with the World Press Institute made a trip up the Gunflint Trail this week. Leading a paddling adventure on Poplar Lake were some of the Paddle & Portage crew.

This is the third year in a row the Paddle & Portage Podcast duo have paddled with the visiting journalists from WPI. Journalists from Italy, China, Finland, Argentina, Brazil and other countries paddled Poplar Lake Sept. 16.

The trip started at Rockwood Lodge and Outfitters in the mid-Gunflint Trail area. Rockwood rented the World Press Institute canoes for the day. A BBQ at the lodge followed the paddle, along with a small campfire and s’mores, the first time roasting marshmallows for many of the journalists. It was also the first time being in a canoe for most of the group.

Throughout the day, questions were asked about proposed copper-nickel mines near the BWCA Wilderness, the history of the region, and why people think it’s “entertaining” to camp in a tent on or near a frozen lake when it’s -30 degrees outside.

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