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

3 Small diet shifts for better firefighter nutrition
March 17, 2026
MnFIRE elects two new board members
March 4, 2026
Why firefighters need an annual physical
February 23, 2026
MnFIRE helps reduce major stress of firefighter’s cancer diagnosis
February 5, 2026
Your health, our priority: MnFIRE’s 2026 Firefighter Health Forum
January 30, 2026
Peer Support: Rewarding part of Cory DeWitte’s fire service career
January 13, 2026
Comments Box SVG iconsUsed for the like, share, comment, and reaction icons

Craving summer sunshine? Get a jump-start on your July by registering for the MnFORE Golf Tournament presented by Schmidt and Salita Law Team! ☀️

Funds raised at MnFORE support Minnesota’s firefighters and their families by helping us provide resources and training to prioritize and protect their health and well-being. Consider giving back to your hometown heroes by golfing or sponsoring: mnfireinitiative.com/mnfore/
... See MoreSee Less

Craving summer sunsh

We had a terrific weekend at the Minnesota State Fire Chiefs Association Duluth Leadership Development Academy! Thanks to everyone who stopped by and chatted with us about firefighter health and wellness resources. We enjoyed meeting you! 🚒 ... See MoreSee Less

Image attachment
Image attachment
Image attachment

Shoutout to Ben Hutton of Le Sueur Fire Department, our latest training survey Streamlight Survivor flashlight drawing winner! 🙌

Which no-cost training(s) can we provide for your department this spring? mnfireinitiative.com/training/
... See MoreSee Less

Shoutout to Ben Hutt
Load more
Skip to content