Compiled by Joe Albert and Bob Timmons
UPLAND BIRD HUNTING
Meadow Kouffeld, 33, Grand Rapids, Minn.
Day job: Regional biologist for the Ruffed Grouse Society and American Woodcock Society

The birds are the No. 1 reason that grouse and woodcock hunting is my greatest passion. Ruffed grouse and woodcock possess beautifully cryptic plumage and are stealthy. No two birds are the same — from their color to their behavior — and every bird is to be cherished. As soon as you think you have them figured out, Ol' Ruff or a squirrelly timberdoodle teaches you a new lesson.
Fall is king in Minnesota. It can be summed up by the sweet aroma of decaying leaves and burnt gunpowder, the warmth and heft of a bird in hand, and a matrix of warm colors contrasted by an Indian summer blue sky. To me, fall is the culmination of beauty and life here in Minnesota.
In my adult life I have fallen in love with bird dogs that live for birds and fall. Working with and watching a talented pointing dog is a magical experience that is nearly unexplainable. Sharing the woods and your life with these incredible beasts is a pleasure that can only be experienced — never explained. They say you get only one good grouse dog in your life, but I am optimistic that I have at least a few more in my future.
HIKING
Rob Bignell, 50, Menomonie, Wis.
(Author of "Day Hiking Trails of Northeast Minnesota" and 16 other hiking guidebooks)