DATE: Wednesday, June 19, 2024
TIME: Three available start times -- 1pm, 2pm, or 3pm
RAIN DATE: Wednesday, June 26, 2024
Starting from Osceola Landing at your selected launch time (1pm, 2pm or 3pm), kayak or canoe to Log House Landing in Scandia, stopping at Cedar Bend for a short (but rigorous and steep) hike to Knapp's Cave to hear its vibrant history. A local outfitter will provide kayaks (choose single or tandem) and canoes and will transport participants back to their cars in Osceola. Knowledgeble kayak guides will lead the way for paddle groups of about 14-18 people plus guides. A light snack and sparkling water/juice will be provided during the hike portion of the event. Please bring your own bottle of water to stay hydrated throughout the afternoon.
IMPORTANT NOTES: The trip will involve steep slopes at both Knapp's Cave and Log House Landing, as well as approximately 2-3 hours of paddling. Participants must be physically fit and able to manage getting into and out of a kayak on their own, land on a beach, and hike steep slopes. Please wear appropriate shoes for the hike and bring insect repellent and water. Youth under age 18 must be accompanied by an adult.
Prefer Your Own Kayak?
If you would like to join this tour and you would prefer to use your own kayak or canoe and also be responsible for your own transportation back from Log House Landing, please call Susan at 651-233-0267 to check availability and register by check for a reduced fee. We will offer a limited number of spots for participants who provide their own kayaks and transportation.
Rain Date:
In case of inclement weather, this event will move to the following Wednesday, June 26, at the same times. We will email attendees the morning of the event to communicate plans in the case of rainy / stormy weather.
Pay by Check?
If you'd like to pay by check (without added fees), please call Susan at 651-233-0267 to reserve your spot by phone. Mail your payment to Scandia Heritage Alliance, PO Box 159, Scandia MN 55073.
About Knapp's Cave
Knapp’s Cave is the largest natural cave in the St. Croix River Valley. Archaeological evidence suggests that it was used as a temporary camp by Native Americans as early as the Archaic period (7000 – 500 BC). Nearby Cedar Bend was once marked by a large cedar tree and was considered a boundary marker between the Ojibwe and Dakota.
During the height of Swedish immigration, newcomers sometimes used the cave for temporary housing until they could build a suitable home. It was rumored that a thief once stashed 16 head of cattle here in the 1870s.
