This Collection showcases the history of French America and the indigenous nations, vast lakes, forests and rivers. Over 572 kilometres (355 mi) split in seven stages, I invite you to trace the upper reaches of the Mississippi River back to its source and explore the many facets of this part of Minnesota.

The northernmost state in the USA, Minnesota, has a name derived from the Lakota language: Mní sóta, which translates to ‘sky-coloured water.’ This name is not only poetic, but also accurate. With over 10,000 lakes, most of them glacial in origin, the state's absence of mountains means that water and sky often blend together, deceiving your senses into perceiving them as one.

If you're a biking enthusiast, you've come to the right place. Minneapolis, one of the cities you'll be passing through, has established itself as the cycling capital of the United States. In 2015, a fund of over $25 million was allocated to improve cycling infrastructure, resulting in the creation of more than 300 kilometres (186 mi) of cycling paths within the city alone.

Beyond the city, the entire state has benefited from the investment, with numerous cycling-related projects underway. The section of the Mississippi River Trail (MRT 45) that you're about to embark on is just a small part of this extensive cycling route, which spans multiple states, including Illinois, Kentucky, Wisconsin, and Tennessee. In my opinion, this leg through northern Minnesota is the most captivating, as it forms a loop beginning in the town of Brainerd, which is a two-hour bus ride from downtown Minneapolis.

In this region of easily flooded lakes, wild rice continues to grow naturally and is cultivated by the Ojibway nation. Moreover, you're in a part of the United States where three of North America's great habitats converge: the Great Plains and coniferous and deciduous forests.

The source of the Mississippi River, the central theme of this adventure, was initially discovered by trapper William Morrison in 1800 and later confirmed as the river's source in 1804. An expedition led by General Lewis in 1820 further solidified this discovery. In 1930, a canal was built, leading from the lake and making the natural site more accessible. The source is located at Lake Itasca, which you'll reach on the fourth day of your journey.

You'll have a range of accommodation options, including campsites, B&Bs and hotels. There are even dedicated campsites for cyclists.

The route is suitable for cyclists of all levels, as the changes in elevation are minimal. However, stages 2 and 3 each exceed 100 kilometres (60 mi), making the route moderately challenging. The best times to ride are summer, late spring and early autumn. Minnesota experiences a continental climate with substantial temperature variations between the seasons. Make sure you pack your waterproofs, regardless which time of year you visit. A tent is a must as you'll camp for several nights. Don't forget to bring insect repellent for the mosquitoes, which can be quite abundant.

In Minneapolis, I recommend the Owamni restaurant. Chef Sean Sherman offers a menu focused on decolonisation, serving the oldest cuisine on the continent: Native American! All ingredients introduced by European settlers are avoided in favour of native products.

In the southwestern part of the state, on the border with South Dakota, you'll find the Pipestone site. This sacred location was a place of peace, where various indigenous nations came to extract the red stone known as catlinite, used for crafting their primary ritual object: the pipe.

Get ready for an adventure!