**Pilotage Plan: Red Wing, Minnesota to Pepin, Wisconsin***Route Overview:*Embarking on this delightful waterway trip provides a scenic blend of natural beauty and a glimpse into the rich history surrounding the Mississippi River. This itinerary is particularly suitable for recreational boaters, including families, fishing enthusiasts, and history buffs. The route from Red Wing to Pepin covers approximately 20 nautical miles and is navigable depending on boat size and local conditions.---**Starting Point: Red Wing, Minnesota**As you prep for your journey in Red Wing, take note of your starting coordinates at longitude -92.62070, latitude 44.63405. The city is known for its picturesque bluffs and its vibrant downtown area. Before setting sail, consider a quick visit to the Red Wing Pottery or the historic Depot Trail Center. **Safety Note:** Always check the weather conditions before departure. Payloads on the Mississippi can be unpredictable, and it’s best to have a route plan in line with your vessel's capabilities.---**Leg 1: Red Wing to Lake Pepin****Distance:** Approximately 10 nautical miles **Duration:** 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on speed and conditions.Your first leg leads you through the exquisite Lake Pepin, a naturally occurring lake along the Mississippi River. Keep an eye out for navigational aids like buoys indicating safe passage and shallows. Ensure your charts are up-to-date as water levels and markers may change seasonally.**Points of Interest:**- **Lake Pepin:** This expansive lake is renowned for its breathtaking views and recreational opportunities, including fishing and swimming. An ideal area to pull over if the weather turns sour. There are various bays, such as the Maiden Rock and Pepin Bay, where you can find calm waters, making it a suitable refuge.- **Maiden Rock:** Offering splendid cliff views, it’s a must-stop for photography and to appreciate the local heritage.**Hazards:** Watch for commercial traffic on the river, particularly near Red Wing, and respect the no-wake zones around recreational areas. Floating debris can also be an issue; maintain a vigilant watch.---**Leg 2: Lake Pepin to Pepin, Wisconsin****Distance:** Approximately 5 nautical miles **Duration:** 30 minutes to 1 hour.After enjoying Lake Pepin, you’ll navigate toward the quaint town of Pepin, arriving at coordinates longitude -92.14762, latitude 44.43715. The approach into Pepin is beautifully framed by rolling hills and small marinas.**Points of Interest:**- **Pepin Marina:** A good spot for refueling, gathering supplies, or simply resting. The marina often hosts events, making it a friendly stop to meet fellow boaters.- **The Laura Ingalls Wilder Museum:** A significant attraction honoring the famed author who spent her childhood in Pepin. A fun and educational visit for all ages.While en route, maintain a lookout for local wildlife, including eagles and pelicans. Furthermore, be attentive to the various markers indicating shallow waters as you inch closer to the channel leading into Pepin.**Regulations & Local Restrictions:**Keep a close eye on posted speed limit signs and designated no-wake zones, particularly as you approach the marina and near populated areas.---**Navigational Aids and Recommendations:**Prior to your journey, it’s advisable to utilize navigational apps such as Google Maps, Navionics, and savvy navvy for real-time updates on water conditions and weather changes. Familiarize yourself with the current navigation charts to avoid uncertain areas and ensure safe passage.**Final Thoughts:**This scenic route from Red Wing to Pepin promises beautiful landscapes, a taste of local history, and the serenity of open waters. While fun is integral, always prioritize safety. By being prepared with weather insights, knowledge of local regulations, and navigation tools, your journey along the Mississippi can be both memorable and secure. Enjoy your adventure!