Years ago while paddling along out on Devil’s Lake we came across this young couple who were out paddling as well. We learned then that they were a bit new to kayaking and actually lived nearby in Reedsburg, a community about 15 miles from our home here in Baraboo. Now, as often happens when you meet people in passing, we sort of dropped out of touch. It wasn’t until yesterday when we were out riding on the 400 bike trail that we realized that they were now married and owned an outdoor shop right along the trail.   

Beyond Boundaries is located in Wonewoc, Wisconsin on the mid-way point of the 400 trail. They are open Mon, Wed., Friday from 9am to 3:30 pm and 8 to 5 on weekends. Beyond Boundaries offers bike, canoe, kayak rentals & shuttle service. They also have a bike shop and small store offering snacks, ice cream an more. Their shop is a bit of an oasis along the 400. Another thing that makes their shop interesting (besides talking to their dog of course) is exploring their building which was once a grain mill. It’s really quite impressive. And talk about circles within circles; Mary grew up in Wonewoc as a child and used to go with her father to have the corn ground up at this very mill. Small world.

Now the guys don’t have a website yet as they just opened in the fall of last year, however you can call them at 608-Go4Ride (608-464-7433).

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Riverside & Great Northern Railway in Wisconsin Dells

I was on my way out to Stand Rock Campground a few days back when I passed by the Riverside & Great Northern Railway on County Rd. N in Wisconsin Dells. Driving by reminded me that I had been wanting to talk about Great Northern since it holds a bit of that vintage Wisconsin Dells spirit that many remember. It also provides another unique way to enjoy the natural beauty of Wisconsin Dells.

The Great Northern Railway is a 15-inch Gauge mini-Steam train that travels on a 3 mile track through canyons, forests, rock walls and of course along the upper Dells of the Wisconsin River. Great Northern is open now on the weekends and will be open daily from memorial day forward. Train rides are $10 for adults and $8 for children (3 and younger ride free). They also offer a free ride to active duty military personnel and their families which is very cool. Check out their website for all the details and scroll to the bottom for a $1 web discount.

Oh, and if you are into trains don’t miss the Mid-Continent Railway Museum in North Freedom.