Midnight Sun Sports Adventure Company
PLEASE NOTE THAT THIS PAGE CONTAINS SELECTIVE ARCHIVED CONTENT FROM THE ORIGINAL SITE.
When I recently discovered that the domain for midnightsunsports.com was available, I bought it with the goal of recreating some of its content from archived pages. I definitely didn't want someone else purchasing the domain and re-purposing the site for something that had nothing in common with the original website. We miss you Midnight Sun Adventure Company.
Now for a nostalgic trip back to when MidnightSunSports.com and its retail store were selling their fine outsoor clothing and guiding us on great adventures.<
+++
Welcome To Midnight Sun Adventure Company!
Midnight Sun Adventure Company is an outdoor retail store and more. It is an outdoor experience! We love the outdoors and want to help you love it as much as we do. Our mission is to get you active in the outdoors safely, comfortably, and knowledgeably. We sell the very best in equipment and clothing as well as have an expert staff for a wide range of outdoor adventure and leisure sports including:
|
Our Mission: Supporting An Active Lifestyle
Midnight Sun Adventure Company is a warm, friendly retail store and full-service adventure guiding service.Located in the city of Duluth which is all about gentrified Nordic funk with their renovated stone mansions that line Lake Superior. Midnight Sun Adventure Company is a retail-and-guiding center for kayaking, climbing, trail running, and cross-country skiing in Canal Park. We treat our customers and clients with the highest level of respect and deliver the highest level of service. We will lead our clients and customers or provide expertise for them to lead themselves, safely and comfortably in their outdoor adventure pursuits. We sell only quality products and stand behind those products. We will deal fairly and honestly. We hire the best, expert staff, treating our staff as we treat our customers and clients with respect and fairness. By fulfilling our mission, we are the area's true home for outdoor adventure.
In order to satisfy our goals, we have recently looked into upgrading our software systems for our business. For those of you who are not familiar with business jargon, upgrading our software systems, especially finding a Microsoft Access alternative, is essential for managing a company's interaction with current and future customers. This involves using technology to organize through automation, synchronization of sales, marketing, customer service, and technical support. We have hired a team of experts to guide us in developing a custom solution. With their assistance, Midnight Sun Sports Adventure Company is going to rock!
Situated at the physical gateway to the world's largest mass of freshwater, Midnight Sun Adventure Company embodies the spirit of a lifestyle outdoors. Lake Superior looms just feet from our door, and when you visit Midnight Sun, you'll feel the pull of outdoor adventure. Our physical location embodies the spirit of our mission by putting you in the outdoors, comfortably, safely, and often.
Our Approach
Expert Guiding
Expert Staff
The best quality and value products
Special Annual Events
Demos
Shop Teams
Weekly Group Adventures
Weekly Gatherings - Calendar
We're here for you. No, we're not just saying that. We really mean it! We're here for you!
We've said from the beginning that Midnight Sun will not be a ski, running shoe, camping gear, climbing gear, and kayak shop. We've said, and we believe, that we are a shop for skiers, runners, campers, climbers and paddlers.
Gear is just gear. If you're not using it, what good is it?
Let's get together and use it!!!
SUMMER SKI CLINICS
CXC Get Your Nordic On Clinic
Get Your Nordic On Clinics are a series of clinics across the Midwest put on by the Central Cross Country elite team along with the American Birke Foundation aimed at increasing the awareness of skiing at all levels. All ages are welcome to partake in the clinic, which will focus on dryland ski training drills and give you a good workout
in the process. Just bring yourself and short poles for ski walking, if you have them.
FREE!
Wednesday August 29th 7:30pm
WALKING, RUNNING AND MORE!
Intro to Nordic Walking
Nordic Walking is a great way to get exercise and is easy on your joints. It is a form of walking with poles, which allows you to also work your arm and torso muscles while bringing your heart rate up to give you a better workout – easy to do anywhere. Dress for the weather and wear athletic shoes. We will meet at Midnight Sun and walk along the Lakewalk. All equipment is provided.
FREE!
Saturday May 12th 9am – 11am
Walk and Talk
Let’s go Nordic Walking! Meet at Midnight Sun and head out along the Lakewalk for an evening workout. Bring your poles, wear athletic shoes and dress for the weather. If this is your first time Nordic Walking arrive early at 6pm for instruction and to check out a pair of poles.
FREE!
Every Tuesday May - September 1st 6:30pm
Trail Running
Each week explore a different Duluth trail. Meet other runners at the trailhead and then head out for a good workout while running with others at your own pace. Call the shop or visit us online for each week’s location.
FREE!
Fridays 7:30am May 18th - August
Summer Solstice Festival
Running races, kayak races, kayak demos, kids base camp and more
Friday June 22nd - Sunday June 24th, 2007
PADDLING PROGRAMS
Community Paddle
Get out and paddle! Bring your own equipment and meet at Midnight Sun for great paddling with great people.
FREE!
Wednesday June 13th 6pm
Wednesday July 4th 6pm
Wednesday August 8th 6pm
Women’s Paddle
Looking for other women to paddle with? Bring your own equipment and meet at Midnight Sun.
FREE!
Wednesday June 20th 6pm
Wednesday July 18th 6pm
Wednesday August 15th 6pm
Family Paddle
Fun for the whole family. Perfect for kid’s first time kayaking. We will have tandem and single kayaks and all the necessary equipment down on the beach for families to try paddling in a designated area. Ages 4 and up. Wear shoes that can get wet.
FREE!
Wednesday June 27th 6pm
Wednesday July 25th 6pm
Wednesday August 22nd 6pm
Kayak Demos
Looking to buy your own kayak or maybe another boat? Come to one of our demos to try many of the new designs, most of which aren’t available anywhere else. Call ahead so we can have the boats that you want ready for you to try. 218.727.1330 Kayaks
FREE!
All dates and times listed on the Summer Calendar. During the Summer Solstice Festival there will be a $10 demo fee.
Kayak Skills Courses
Learn the skills necessary to be a safe and effective paddler. Courses include strokes, rescues, rolling and surf techniques. Full course outlines available online.
$55/Course
Basic Skills Course
Sunday July 8th 1:30pm-5:30pm
Sunday August 5th 1:30pm-5:30pm
Advanced Skills Course
Sunday July 15th 1:30pm-5:30pm
Sunday August 12th 1:30pm-5:30pm
Rolling Clinic
Sunday July 29th 1:30pm-5:30pm
Sunday August 26th 1:30pm-5:30pm
Day Adventures
Ever dreamed of sea kayaking on Lake Superior? Midnight Sun can take you there. Whether you are a first time or seasoned paddler, Midnight Sun has an adventure just for you. Our experienced guides will lead you while making your safety and enjoyment the priority. All necessary equipment is included with the price of the program. Programs and locations are weather dependent. Visit our website for more information or call to reserve your spot.
Kayak Tour (2.5hrs) $40/Person
Weekends in Spring/Fall and Daily in the Summer
Sunrise Kayak Tour (2.5hrs) $50/Person
Mid June - August Sundays
Full Day Kayak Adventure $100/Person
Mid June - August Wednesdays and Saturdays
Full Moon Paddle $55/Person
June 30th, July 30th, August 28th
Fall Color Paddle $55/Person
Sunday September 30th
Rock Climbing $75/Person
By private program.
All necessary equipment is provided including wetsuit, lifejacket, paddle and paddling gloves, climbing gear.
Remember to wear your swimsuit underneath your clothes and wear shoes that fit securely to your feet and can get wet. Don’t forget your full water bottle, sunglasses and sunscreen!
This schedule is subject to change.
Midnight Sun Adventure Company
100 Lake Place Dr.
Duluth, MN 55802
Phone: (218) 727-1330
Store Hours:
Mon: 10:00am-5:00pm
Tue-Sat: 10:00am-7:00pm
Sun: 11:00am-5:00pm
More Background On Midnight Sun Adventure Company
Midnight Sun Sports Adventure Company was a prominent outdoor retail and adventure guiding business based in Duluth, Minnesota. It played a significant role in shaping the region’s outdoor recreation scene, particularly from the early 2000s through the late 2000s. This article provides a detailed overview of the company, including its history, ownership, offerings, reputation, community impact, and cultural significance.
Ownership and Founding
The company was founded by a team of outdoor enthusiasts and experienced guides, with notable leadership from Kara Salmela, a former Olympic biathlete who represented the United States in the 1998 and 2002 Winter Olympics. Salmela’s background in exercise science and physiology, combined with her passion for outdoor sports, was instrumental in shaping the company’s mission and operations. She later expanded her entrepreneurial activities with ventures such as Midnight Sun Events and SalmelaTalent, further embedding herself in Minnesota’s sports and business communities.
Location and Proximity
Midnight Sun Sports Adventure Company was located at 100 Lake Place Drive in Duluth’s Canal Park neighborhood, a prime waterfront area along the shores of Lake Superior. This location offered direct access to the lake, making it ideal for water-based activities like kayaking and paddleboarding. Canal Park is also the heart of Duluth’s tourism district, close to major attractions such as the Aerial Lift Bridge, Lake Superior Maritime Visitor Center, and Great Lakes Aquarium. The shop’s proximity to these landmarks ensured high visibility, accessibility for tourists, and convenience for local residents.
Offerings and Services
Retail Store
-
Outdoor apparel and gear from top brands such as Patagonia, The North Face, and Black Diamond.
-
Knowledgeable staff provided expert recommendations for activities like kayaking, rock climbing, trail running, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and hiking.
Adventure Guiding
-
Guided sea kayak tours on Lake Superior, including sunset, sunrise, full-day, and moonlight paddles.
-
Rock climbing excursions and clinics.
-
Cross-country ski clinics and outings.
-
Trail running and Nordic walking groups.
-
Community paddling events, family and women’s adventure programs.
-
All necessary equipment (kayaks, life jackets, skis, climbing gear) provided, with guides adhering to safety standards set by organizations such as the American Canoe Association and the American Mountain Guides Association.
Goals and Mission
The company’s mission was to foster a love for the outdoors by making adventure accessible, safe, and enjoyable for people of all skill levels. Their philosophy emphasized:
-
Expert guidance and instruction.
-
High-quality, reliable equipment.
-
Community engagement through free events and group activities.
-
Education and empowerment, helping participants gain skills and confidence in outdoor pursuits.
Midnight Sun aimed to be more than just a gear shop; it sought to create a community hub for outdoor enthusiasts and to inspire an active, healthy lifestyle.
Popularity and Audience
Midnight Sun Sports Adventure Company developed a loyal following among both locals and tourists. Its audience included:
-
Outdoor enthusiasts seeking high-quality gear and expert advice.
-
Families and youth interested in nature-based activities and camps.
-
Fitness-focused individuals participating in events like the Midnight Sun Midnight Run.
-
Community groups and corporate teams seeking team-building adventures.
-
Tourists looking for authentic Duluth experiences through guided excursions.
The company’s weekly group activities, free community events, and educational clinics helped cultivate a vibrant community of outdoor lovers.
Reputation and Reviews
Midnight Sun Sports Adventure Company was widely praised for its knowledgeable staff, excellent customer service, and the professionalism of its guides. Reviews on platforms such as Facebook, Yelp, and TripAdvisor consistently highlighted:
-
The staff’s expertise and friendliness.
-
The quality and variety of gear available.
-
The memorable and well-organized guided tours.
-
The company’s passion for the outdoors and commitment to safety.
Customers described their experiences as unforgettable, inspiring, and a must for anyone visiting Duluth. The company’s reputation as a staple of the Duluth outdoor scene was reinforced by glowing testimonials and repeat business.
Awards and Recognition
While specific awards are not widely documented, the company’s consistent high ratings on review platforms and positive media coverage point to its recognition as a leading outdoor outfitter and guide service in the region. Its involvement in community events and partnerships with local organizations further solidified its standing in the Duluth area.
History and Cultural Significance
Midnight Sun Sports Adventure Company operated at its peak in the mid-to-late 2000s, with references to major events like the Summer Solstice Festival in 2007. The business was known for its physical retail storefront at 100 Lake Place Drive, where it sold outdoor apparel and equipment for activities such as kayaking, climbing, skiing, running, and hiking. Its experiential programming, including guided tours, skills clinics, and community group outings, immersed customers in outdoor adventures and fostered a strong sense of community.
The company’s knowledgeable staff and expert guides were passionate about the outdoor activities they specialized in, contributing to the business’s reputation as a trusted resource for adventure seekers. Although the business appears to have gone inactive after the late 2000s, its legacy endures in the memories of those who participated in its programs and events.
Press and Media Coverage
Midnight Sun Sports Adventure Company received positive coverage in Duluth-area news outlets and magazines that cover the outdoor scene. This media attention highlighted the company’s role as a major player in the local market and its contributions to the region’s outdoor recreation culture. The company’s events, such as the Midnight Sun Midnight Run and the Summer Solstice Festival, were featured in local press, further enhancing its visibility and reputation.
Community and Social Impact
The company’s commitment to community engagement was evident in its frequent free events, group activities, and educational clinics. These initiatives brought together people of all ages and backgrounds, fostering a sense of belonging and encouraging active lifestyles. Midnight Sun’s focus on inclusivity and empowerment helped build a supportive community of outdoor enthusiasts in Duluth and beyond.
Known For
Midnight Sun Sports Adventure Company was known for:
-
Comprehensive outdoor activities, including kayaking, rock climbing, snowshoeing, skiing, and guided tours.
-
Community engagement through events like the Midnight Sun Midnight Run.
-
Expertise and high-quality equipment, with staff providing personalized recommendations.
-
Educational and recreational programs aimed at promoting an active lifestyle for all age groups.
Midnight Sun Sports Adventure Company left a lasting mark on Duluth’s outdoor recreation landscape. Through its retail operations, guided adventures, community events, and commitment to customer service, the company inspired countless individuals to explore and appreciate the natural beauty of the region. Its legacy continues to influence the local outdoor community, serving as a model for future adventure outfitters and guiding services.