Our staff
Blu the Weimaraner
(Good Boy/Old Man):
Emotional Support Anchor
This is Blu. He’s by far the most cuddly of the crew. He’s not certified to lead your tour but you might see him around, cruising in the truck with us. He’s a big fan of sleeping & his favorite snack is bread.
Kalen Keir,
aka Beaver (he/him):
Founding Member & Guide Trainer
-Certified by the American Canoe Assn. as a Level 2 Sea Kayak Instructor
-Raised in Door County, WI and all over Mexico (Spanish-speaking tours available on request)
-18 seasons as a guide, 11 in MPLS
-Also does theatre, sound design, music, puppetry
-Popcorn king, Certified Uncle (level 1)
Amber Lynum,
aka Sparky (she/her):
Lead Guide + Marketing
Amber Lynum is a Jac[queline] of all trades—linguist, marketing magician, wine barista and a brief stint as a mason/beekeeper.
She’s worn many hats and her past experiences have all had a great influence on and led her to the fulfilling work that she is doing now: intentional travel advocate/ paddling guide/writer. It’s too hard to choose just one!
Through community engagement and storytelling, her goal is to spark interest and generate action around conversation and localized, environmentally-conscious travel.
Certifications: First Aid/CPR, Swift Water Rescue,
ACA Level II
Andy Landy (they/them): Guide
Hello! I've been head over heels for waterways (lakes, rivers, estuaries, you name it) for nearly as long as I can remember. Growing up with disabled parents, I found greater joy in activities that were convenient to their needs, rather than ones where they could only watch me. Canoeing, kayaking, and other water sports can be incredibly accessible, and can remind one of their own strength at the same time. There's no better place to bond with loved ones and see a new side of them than "on trail." I am so excited to share what I know about these incredible places along the mighty Mississippi; we can create memories together in the present while doing our best to honor the history of these waters, all while giving thanks to those who continue their stewardship of Minnesota. Let's get paddling!
Paul Gronneberg (he/him): Guide
I grew up near a river where I was first introduced to canoeing. Two trips to the Boundary Waters as a teenager cemented a lifelong interest in paddle sports. I am a previous member of the Superior Kayak and Outdoor Adventure Club. I recently retired from my career as a mental health therapist. As much as I enjoyed my work, I am greatly enjoying the freedom to spend more time with extended family, pursuing my interests in music, writing, tennis, golf, scuba, spontaneous side trips, sleeping in, and of course sharing time on one of the world's great rivers talking with interesting people. Hope to see you on the water!
Amy Harr (she/her):
Guide
Hi! The last two years I've been drawn to the water. Ever since I first paddled in a kayak on a beautiful lake and felt the water pass by under me, I've been hooked. I've been kayaking and on the water in any capacity I can be since. As an artist and storyteller, I tend to focus on the small things along the trail and end up talking about everything connected to it. I love connecting with others about their stories so I'm excited to talk about the history of the river and what it means to the people living around it when guiding! Some fun facts about me: I am terrified of geese (long story) and I used to be a cheerleader! Ask me about it!