### Pilotage Plan #### Route Overview This pilotage plan will guide you from Saint Paul, Minnesota, down the scenic Mississippi River to Anoka, Minnesota. Boasting a mixture of stunning natural beauty, quaint river towns, and notable landmarks, this route is perfect for recreational boaters, especially those who appreciate leisurely cruising. Expect calm waters, historic sights, and the opportunity to seek shelter at designated ports if the weather should turn unfavorable.#### Departure Point: St. Paul, MN **Coordinate:** Longitude -93.094, Latitude 44.9405 As you set sail from the bustling city of St. Paul, you'll navigate through one of the largest urban watersheds in the state. The starting point offers various amenities, including fuel docks and nearby marinas. Be sure to check your equipment and safety gear before you begin.#### Route Highlights1. **Fort Snelling State Park** Just downstream from St. Paul, you'll pass Fort Snelling, established in 1819. Anchoring here provides a chance to explore the park’s rich history, take a hike, or enjoy a picnic with views of where the rivers meet. 2. **Lake Harriet and Minnehaha Creek** Continuing past St. Paul, the route allows you to access tributaries such as Minnehaha Creek. This area features beautiful parks and is ideal for a peaceful stop influenced by stunning waterfalls and trails. You can anchor in areas where permitted and take a short hike for a relaxing break.3. **Historic River Towns** Keep an eye out for small towns along the river like Hastings and Red Wing, both rich in cultural experiences, artisan crafts, and local cuisine. Although they require a bit of a detour, these towns provide safe bays for an overnight stay or a short rest. Hastings has well-known shelter areas to offer refuge should stormy weather arise.4. **Lake Pepin** Lake Pepin, a naturally occurring lake on the Mississippi River, presents wonderful scenic views. This area can be choppy in bad weather, so be cautious, paying close attention to wind and wave conditions. It’s a beautiful spot to stretch your legs at nearby beaches or marinas.5. **Bays and Shelters** As you approach the Anoka area, keep in mind potential sheltered spots like the Rum River and the Elm Creek Recreation Area should the weather deteriorate. These locations offer safe moorings where you could ride out troubling weather.#### Arrival Point: Anoka, MN **Coordinate:** Longitude -93.3908, Latitude 45.1988 The final leg of your journey will bring you to Anoka, known for its historic charm and vibrant local shops. It’s an ideal place to refuel, gather supplies, and enjoy some downtime after your trip. Anoka has marinas equipped for visitors and numerous nearby attractions that take advantage of the riverfront.#### Navigational Aids and Considerations- **Water Depths:** The Mississippi River has channels well-marked by navigational buoys, but be wary of shallow areas especially during periods of low water. Always consult updated charts for current water depths. - **Traffic Control:** Being a busy waterway, stay vigilant about vessel traffic, especially near locks and commercial docks. Monitor marine radio channels to stay informed about local traffic updates and emergency information.- **Regulations:** As with any river navigation, there are local regulations to observe. Ensure you are familiar with the speed limits, no-wake zones, and anchoring rules in place along your route, especially in residential areas.- **Weather Monitoring:** Weather can change rapidly on the water. Utilize apps such as Savvy Navvy to access real-time weather data and forecasts to keep your journey safe. Other apps like NOAA Weather Radar and MarineTraffic can also be invaluable in monitoring conditions.#### ConclusionThis route from St. Paul to Anoka is tailored for leisure boaters seeking a safe and enjoyable experience. The blend of stunning locations, historic sites, and ample shelter options provides an enriching adventure perfect for family outings, romantic getaways, or solo explorations. Always prioritize safety and have a fantastic time on the water!