Miles for MnFIRE Day 2: Esko to Mahtowa

Miles for MnFIRE is a walk across Minnesota that raises awareness and much-needed funds for firefighter health. The more than 150-mile journey kicked off on Sept. 13 in Duluth and is making its way through numerous Minnesota communities, including Esko, Mahtowa, Willow River, Hinckley, Rush City, North Branch, Hugo and Vadnais Heights. The walk ends Sept. 21 at the Minnesota Fallen Firefighter Memorial on the grounds of the State Capitol in St. Paul.

Day 2:

Starting location: Esko, MN
Finish for the day: Mahtowa, MN
Miles completed: 17
Weather report: 63°F and misty

Minnesota firefighters Doug Foote and Kyle Bode started day two of Miles for MnFIRE, the more than 150-mile journey from Duluth to St. Paul. On Sunday, Sept. 14, the team began at the Willard Munger State Trail near Esko, Minn.

Keeping a steady pace of approximately 19 minutes per mile, Foote and Bode made various stops to recharge, including a longer break at Carlton Fire Department, where Chief Derek Wolf chatted with the walkers and Wired Loon Coffee supplied some delicious fresh muffins.

The team finished the day in Mahtowa and was joined by Marley the service dog for the last leg of the journey!

The story of Miles for MnFIRE continues to reach every corner of our state. As the walk and coverage continues (including a new story by KARE 11 on its website), we’re excited to share that Miles for MnFIRE has raised $35,250 so far. We appreciate all of the support as we aim for our goal of $100,000. For more details or to donate, click here.

Stay tuned to our blog and follow us on Facebook for updates along the way as our walkers, Doug and Kyle, head toward the Minnesota Fallen Firefighter Memorial on the grounds of the State Capitol in St. Paul, where they are scheduled to arrive on Sunday, Sept. 21. For more information about our route, stops and expected arrival times, click here.

Photos by Ric Rosow

Recent News

The leadership team driving MnFIRE’s next stage of growth
June 29, 2026
PTSD Awareness Month: You don’t need to climb the mountain alone
June 23, 2026
Why firefighters should join the National Firefighter Registry for Cancer
June 9, 2026
It’s time to schedule your next MnFIRE training
May 19, 2026
MnFIRE Supports Women Explore Fire Day in Minnesota
May 6, 2026
MnFIRE instructor takes his own advice, calls hotline for help
April 20, 2026
Comments Box SVG iconsUsed for the like, share, comment, and reaction icons

We'd like to extend our appreciation to our 2026 MnFORE Golf Tournament Premier Hole Sponsors:

Meuser, Yackley & Rowland Law Office
The Parr McKnight Wealth Management Group
Lakeside Restoration
Anytime Restoration Fire and Water Damage
MacQueen Emergency Solutions
Alex Air Apparatus
Keepers Wellness
Lindstrom Restoration
TSR Injury Law

Thank you to our phenomenal group of 2026 MnFORE sponsors for helping make the day a swinging success – all in the name of firefighter health. We look forward to seeing you tomorrow! 🏌️‍♀️
... See MoreSee Less

Wed like to extend o

We proudly recognize our MnFORE Golf Tournament Chipping Green & Driving Range Sponsors – Farmington Firefighters Relief Association and Optum! We're thankful for your ongoing commitment to Minnesota firefighter health. 🧑‍🚒 ... See MoreSee Less

We proudly recognize

Many thanks to Bellmont Partners, our MnFORE Golf Tournament Cart, Dessert & Putting Green Sponsor! We are so grateful for your ongoing support of our state's hometown heroes. ⛳ ... See MoreSee Less

Many thanks to Bellm

Our gratitude goes out to our MnFORE Golf Tournament Meal Sponsors, Lindstrom Restoration and MESFire! Thank you for keeping us fed and nourished during MnFORE, a day that makes such an impact in the lives of our firefighters. 🍽️ ... See MoreSee Less

Our gratitude goes o

A big thank you to our MnFORE Golf Tournament Gold Sponsor, Securian Financial, for consistently supporting the health and well-being of our hometown heroes. MnFORE wouldn't be the same without you! 🏌️ ... See MoreSee Less

A big thank you to o
Load more
Skip to content