Three outfitters for three separate legs of the Mississippi:
St. Cloud to Becker — Clear Waters Outfitting Company (320-558-8123, www.cwout fitting.com) provides fishing kayaks, recreational kayaks, canoes and paddleboards. Trips range from 8 to 13 miles. Longer trips and overnight camping also can be arranged.
Twin Cities — Wilderness Inquiry (612-676-9400, www.wildernessinquiry.org) offers three to four-hour weekend paddles in 24-foot voyageur canoes, including themed outings such as ghost towns, fall colors and seasonal foods.
Red Wing to Winona — Broken Paddle Guiding Company (651-955-5222; www.brokenpaddle guidingcompany.com) guides a variety of trips which may incorporate hiking area bluffs, watching the sunset from a beach or finishing the excursion at a brewpub.
