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

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
St. Paul firefighter advocates for peer support, sleep and exercise
April 3, 2026
3 Small diet shifts for better firefighter nutrition
March 17, 2026
Comments Box SVG iconsUsed for the like, share, comment, and reaction icons

MnFORE is about more than just golf – it's about the fire service community! Whether you're on or off the course, we'd love for you to join us at the July 14th event presented by Schmidt and Salita Law Team.

Don't miss your chance to attend: mnfireinitiative.com/mnfore/
... See MoreSee Less

MnFORE is about more

Honor Men's Health Month by staying on top of routine checkups and screenings. Don't put it off – it could make all the difference.

Get started with this helpful firefighter physical guide from IAFC - International Association of Fire Chiefs: mnfireinitiative.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/healthcareprovidersguide.pdf
... See MoreSee Less

Honor Mens Health Mo

MnFORE presented by Schmidt and Salita Law Team is just over a month away ⏰

Join us in playing for a purpose: supporting our very own Minnesota firefighters. Grab your spot or hole sponsorship before they're gone! mnfireinitiative.com/mnfore/
... See MoreSee Less

MnFORE presented by

Firefighters face risks that go beyond the call – including a higher risk of cancer. This month and always, we honor the many firefighters and family members whose lives have been touched by cancer.

Through the MnFIRE Critical Illness Program, Minnesota firefighters can receive up to $20,000 after a diagnosis. Could this help you or someone you know? Learn more and share: mnfireinitiative.com/hhap/#CI

#CancerSurvivorsMonth #NationalCancerSurvivorsDay
... See MoreSee Less

Firefighters face ri
Load more
Skip to content