Kiteboarding Magazine

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2004-04-14 15:00:00 | 537 views | 0 Comments

This huge ice cube of pressure ridges snaking around islands and inlets in the Land of 10,000 (Frozen) Lakes won't disappoint if you're jonesin' to ride. At 11 miles long, it's great for downwinders, and with the winter ice and snow often sticking around until mid-April, the snowkite season can go on and on. The locals are super friendly and make for good riding partners, just make sure you bring a neck warmer and Puff Daddy parka. When you're done for the day, the entire Minneapolis-St. Paul metro area is right next door.

Directions: Starting at the Twin Cities airport, follow westbound I-494 to the exit for I-394/Highway 12 and head west. Take the lake drive [does this street have an official name?] to the beach near the J.J. Hill train depot. Park at the lot or drive out on the ice and set up anywhere you want.

Lessons: Tighe Belden [include his kiteboarding business or qualifications], 651-699-4121, tighe@windancing.com

Shop: Scuba Center in Minneapolis, 612-925-4818

Accommodations: To crash (in a bed) close to the lake, try the Holiday Inn Express (866-270-5112) in Minnetonka.

Places to Eat: When in Minnesota, how can you not sample the walleye? Try Sunsets on Wayzata Bay or Blacksford Restaurant.

Weather check: www.lakawa.com

Also in Minnesota: Among the other 9,999 lakes, check out Lake Waconia, a big lake west of Minneapolis, or White Bear Lake, the best spot on the east side of the Twin Cities. For endless runs, Lake Mille Lacs 90 miles north is the second largest lake in the state.