Copia is always a fun time. I suggest making reservations early for next year. Not yet though, I haven’t signed a contract. I requested the same ten rooms and the meeting room at the same price. I’ll let you know when we have a contract.  The reasons I suggest early booking are to make sure you have a room at the best place in Madtown and you can always cancel for free if plans change. HIE is really top notch. Folks who were canceled at the Clarion also discovered this gem. As others have mentioned, the service is second to none.

Thanks to Mike for his presentation on the Erie Canal to Statue of Liberty. It was fun hearing about a non traditional place to paddle. He’s planning to paddle the Tennessee River in April. Maybe we’ll connect as that’s in my neighborhood.

When I have a signed contract, I’ll start a new thread, Canoecopia 2026. 

I agree with PORTAGE DOG. The Holiday Inn Express is the best hotel for Copia. The rooms were topnotch, nice breakfast, excellent meeting room and the hospitality was A+. And you could walk across to the Alliant Energy Center or take their free shuttle.

I think we should do it again next year at this venue. Old Salt got us a good deal and the manager (Amy) would like us to reup for 2026. I know some of her family (POCI FARMS)  in Rock Falls, IL and she said she would  treat us well.

Old Salt did a a great job with his ALASKA Presentation on Sunday Morning. I am sure he should get excellent reviews and be asked to come back next year.

I enjoyed catching up with fellow QJ'ers.

See you all next year!

I'll agree that the Holiday Inn Express is the best place we've stayed at for Copia since I've attended - a good few but less than most of you QJer's.  Thanks to OS for lining that up and looking forward to the same next year.  Thanks to Rich, Scott, Mike, Terry and everyone that contributed!

It was awesome catching up with all the folks that made it and meeting a few new paddlers as well.  I really enjoyed the story sharing and trip planning opportunities.

pd

Your Norski Nook pie was well received and enjoyed by all. You may be ‘on the hook’ for this for future Copias.

Over the weekend I spoke with the GM about our arrangements, which were very satisfactory, and the closing of the Clarion. Turns out the same management group that owns the HIE is the group that bought the Clarion. During the reconstruction period, their staff will be trained at the HIE. They will reopen as a Hilton property, and employees will be cross-trained for both facilities. When I asked her if they would be open in time for Copia, she said that was the plan. She asked if our group would want to move over there, I told her that we are satisfied where we are, but we are open for discussion according to where we can get the best deal. Talks will continue. If you have any thoughts or input, please post here or contact me directly.
Overall, another great Copia. My speaking slot was head to head with Cliff Jacobsen, doing his final Copia, Bear Paulson, and Peter Marshall, three heavy hitters. I figured I would be lucky if 5 folks came, I was pleasantly impressed with a roomful. Folks are hungry for anything about Alaska. Thanks to Wally 13 for helping out in several ways. I hope to do another Alaska show next year.

Good seeing everyone this weekend.There are some really interesting trips being planned for this year. Lots of good stories were told -- some were probably even true Thanks to Walley13 for the Erie Canal presentation.

I'm looking forward to some of my own trips into Quetico and beyond. Thanks to Rich for setting us up in the HIE this year.

Kevin Callan had a couple of good presentations - his top 10 routes in Canada and an outstanding presentation on Opasquia!

P.S. Thanks to MuleLars too  for his excellent coordination and hosting us as always in his hometown.

Good place, Good times, Good people as always.

I even bought some stuff this year!

Sounds good, Bill. The reservation is under ‘Rich Williamson’. We’ll see you there.

Old Salt wrote on Feb 27^th, 2025 at 8:05pm:


Just a reminder Im still planning on liberty station gathering but will not use shuttle. I'll plan to be at door when shuttle arrives.

See you at the hotel, Marten.

Old Salt wrote on Mar 7^th, 2025 at 1:09pm:



I will buy a Sat. from you

Have fun. Drive safe. Do good things.

I found out when I got to Madison that I have extra wristbands for all three days. If anyone needs any, let me know.

HighnDry wrote on Mar 6^th, 2025 at 9:05pm:



I could use it Terry.

I still have an extra wristband for Sunday--if anybody needs one. Just sayin'.

Done.

Marten wrote on Feb 28^th, 2025 at 9:33am:



Scratch my sister from.the Sat. night shuttle and dinner.

MuleLars wrote on Feb 25^th, 2025 at 1:18pm:


I'll be there Friday as well. I might be a bit late because there are a couple of late presentations I want to hit at the show, but I'll be there.

Martin and his sister Paula will join the Sat. supper excursion.

I’ll reserve the hotel shuttle for dinner. I have made a reservation for Saturday dinner at 6:00pm at Liberty Station BBQ. Everyone is welcome, but I need to give them a headcount on next Tuesday evening. Please post or let me know if you would like to join us.

Rob - I think I'll take you up on Saturday at 6:00 at Liberty Station.  I'm at the Hilton property right next to it. If it's too busy, I have a car right there.

Mary and I will be there Friday evening.   

Hello, All-- We're planning on pizza for Friday night, for those who can make it and are interested.

I'll figure out who delivers there, otherwise we can order and I'll pick it up. The Holiday Inn is in a bit of an island, but I'll figure it out.

We'll split the cost. I would think $10 per person will work, but it could be less.

I'm thinking we can make some decisions by 5:30 and get things ordered,

It seems like we've had around 10 people or so say they plan on coming Friday, so if you're going to be there and haven't weighed in, let us know. All are welcome!!

Beverages and supplies will be provided.

Looking forward to seeing you all!
ml

Jake and Bob can't make it this year so I have an extra queen bed  available at our hotel for Friday and Saturday night. I do snore so beware.

My hunch is that they have sold out by now.

Just talked to them to try and add onto my Saturday HIE rez.  By the book they did not have QJ block rooms left for Fri or Thursday, BUT were going not check w/ a sales person about rooms in other blocks that might be able to open to me at ‘the rate.’ Sales person gets in around 0900CST and I’ll get a call back.

Their number is: (608) 709-5050.

I just got an email from HIE indicating that they are reopening our room block until it is sold out. Given that the Clarion will be closed, pass this information to BWCA folks who may be looking to book. If you’re on the fence, it’s time.

They have to call the hotel and ask for the “QuietJourney “ rate. It cannot be done online.

Invite them to our gatherings.

It’s a good thing that we are at the HIE. 

Hard to believe but the Clarion just cancelled reservations so they can start remodel.March 1. Not sure if any were spared. Anybody know?

I appreciate you, db for allowing a diversity of opinions. I do enjoy QJ. Thanks for all you do for QJ.

To clarify, I do like the folks who inhabit both sites.

And yet here you are! 

I was booted off their website years ago. Why? No reason given. Why would I want to attend their dinner? I don’t miss the site. But I do plan to eat a nice dinner.

Old Salt wrote on Feb 17^th, 2025 at 5:33pm:


Dafaq? BWCA

You weren't invited?

Dinner Friday sounds good.

After talking with Wally 13 and MuleLars, it appears that most of our attendees are planning to attend the ****.com dinner on Saturday evening and there’s nothing planned for those who might prefer a different dinner option. I have made reservations at Liberty Station (great BBQ) for 6pm on Saturday. I’m inviting anyone not planning on the other dinner to join me. Just let me know if you want to join me so I can adjust the reservation for the party size. We will order from the menu. I ate there last year and their brisket was melt in your mouth, jump up and kiss your grandma delicious.

Liberty Station is close to the HIE and we can use their shuttle service to get there and back.

They are planning for pizza on Friday and will post those details later.

DadnWaldo wrote on Feb 15^th, 2025 at 7:34pm:

Sorry. ------- WTFN?

We’re glad you can come. We’ll look forward to meeting you. We will include you for dinner plans. Can you join us for dinner on Friday, as well?

I’m looking at showing up as well, able to get a Saturday night room under QJ block, not Friday so a few miles away in Fitchburg for Th- Fri.  Any sense if Badger Paddle hauls some goods to sell (IF they come )? Hope to buy an oiled paddle that Rutabaga hasn’t carried  in my experience. Tried email, but no response yet - no worries , just replacing an old Turtle that got ripped off Badgers LaBonga is a pretty good fit. Timing…..

RELAX aluminum chef fans. Aluminum chef will be at Copia. It’s at the end of the day on Saturday.

Wally13 wrote on Feb 14^th, 2025 at 1:56pm:



Wish I could be there.

Looking forward to hearing about your trip 

I did a 20 day 516 mile canoe paddle of the Erie Canal to Hudson River to New York City Statue of Liberty Sept 22 to Oct 15, 2024. 

I met HighNDry on Day 6 RM 189.6 on the Erie  Canal.

A few QJ’ers have asked me to maybe give a talk about this adventure. So I am planning to give a Power Point Presentation on Friday night after our supper at our hotel. 

I know my sister will be joining us both nights.

We are coming for all three days of Canoecopia, and will be staying at the Holiday Inn Express.  We would like to join you for dinner on Friday, but won't get there until after Jerry's presentation Friday.  We are happy to pay our share, or bring something if that is appropriate.  Just let me know what is needed.

Stew, no problem with beer and other beverages. No problem with pizza or other restaurant food, or snacks. When I originally negotiated the deal, they wanted the exclusive rights to cater our food. I asked them what that would look like? They said it would be breakfast food like their morning buffet. I objected to that because I knew it would go over like a lead balloon. I told them that if I was not part of a group, I would feel free to to order delivery from a local restaurant. That happens all the time. They saw my point.

I asked them about doing a potluck and they said absolutely not. They cited a Wisconsin law that forbids it due to concerns over food safety. Anyway, I got them to agree to let us order restaurant food, bring in beverages and snacks. Since I signed the contract, I would like to obey their policies. The free room compensates for any meal expenses IMO.

Next year someone else can make the arrangements. Before I made these arrangements I ran it past the informal planning team and got agreement.

Next year we can book elsewhere if that’s what people want. Or again here. Their shuttle service will save parking fees and hassle. I enjoy getting dropped and picked up at the door. 2 more days to book.

Yea, the Norske Nook pie was my intended dessert to bring. I wouldn't think per their rules that would raise any flags?

No problem with snacks and beverages right, pizza?  We did a catered BBQ a couple years back that was successful.  I see no issues doing something like that again.

Maybe a Norski's Nook pie or two would grease the skids on them easing the rules?

pd

We got the meeting room for free. I don’t think it’s a good idea to disregard hotel policy. It’s their house. I will not participate in a potluck.

Well then I'll just call it the 'food that I ordered from a restaurant"..... and I'm willing to share. 

The hotel will not allow a potluck. We can order food from a restaurant.

Plans are on hold for me for the time being. 

I'll be there both Fri. and Sat. nights as well. I'll rustle something up to share for Fri potluck, maybe a dessert?

I will speak for MagicPaddler and me as we're traveling together.  Both coming, staying Friday and Saturday at the HIE.  Both for dinner on Friday (will bring Lienie's to share) and after dinner on Saturday. 

pd

I will be there both Friday and Saturday.

I am staying Fri, and Sat. night and will be there each evening for meal. Can bring food if pot luck on Fri,

Who is coming to Copia 2025 ?

Who is planning to overnight at the Hioliday Inn Express across from the Alliant Energy Center and what nights?

Who is planning to join fellow QJ Members for a Friday evening meal  and /or  Saturday evening meal ?

Please respond so we can plan our weekend.

Thanks,
Wally13

I will be 100% bummed if I don’t get my annual “fix” of Aluminum Chef!  It has always been one of my favorite hours of the show.

Spartan1 wrote on Jan 29^th, 2025 at 11:01am:


Just saying not on the published schedule.

Thanks. I'll reach out to him to see if he needs a wristband.

Terry, check with TomT.  He said something about coming up on Sunday.

pd

BillConner wrote on Jan 29^th, 2025 at 7:50am:


The aluminum chef event has always been the last presentation in the Quetico room on Saturday.  This year the room is not scheduled in that time slot.

Spartan1

I'm not finding the aluminum chef event on the schedule. Anyone?

I've got an extra wristband for Sunday if anyone is interested.

All of the Copia information is now posted on their website. I will be sharing my experiences on the Alaska Highway on Sunday at 10:30 am in the Bear room. Looking forward to our annual reunion. If you need a room, call them soon. The deadline is rapidly approaching. 

Any word on meals and gatherings? 

I only know true stories…

Thanks OS.  Looking forward to hours of entertaining stories - even some that are true!

pd

The story is that we will use the meeting room on the main floor. We will post a sign or two to direct folks to it. 

I assume that others are working on meal plans for Friday and Saturday evenings. The hotel has a great complimentary breakfast.

What's the story on a Team QJ gathering room?

pd

It will be great to see everyone. Just a reminder that to get the QJ discount, you need to call them by February 6.

Ok. I just booked too.

Room reserved for 'Copia yesterday.  Rate was still $134 for a double queen.  My chauffer and room buddy will be MagicPaddler again this year.  See y'all in 8 weeks.

pd

Note - they do not charge an extra $50 for portage dogs.

I just got confirmation that I will be one of the presenters next March. I will be sharing my adventures on ‘Experiencing the Alaska Highway’. I’m looking forward to our shared gatherings. Hope to see you there! 

Merry Christmas 

For those who inhabit QJ who have never been to Canoecopia, it is the modern day version of the old voyageurs rendezvous. You will see the latest gear, hear inspiring presentations that will open your eyes to new paddling possibilities, and visit with fellow paddlers. I enjoy the presentations and visiting with friends and new friends. I hope you will try it out if you have not attended recently. The dates are March 7-9, 2025 and Madison is an easy drive from most of the Midwest.

Join fellow QJers at the Holiday Inn Express across the road from the Alliant Energy Center where all of the activity is located. Call them to make a reservation and tell them you are part of the QuietJourney group to get the discount. The deadline always sneaks up on some. It’s February 6. Don’t miss out on the fun! 

Martin's sister just booked a room at Holiday Inn on John Nolan, king $124 + tax. 608 709 5050. Canoecopia/Quiet Journey 2025.

Forgot to mention, I’m arriving on Thursday and leaving on Monday. So if anyone else is arriving early or staying late, perhaps we can get together…

I made a reservation for a king in September. No problem. My guess is communication on their end. You do have to call them. It can’t be done online. 608-709-5050. 

Reserved a room with 2 queens at $134 , A king would be $124. Other confusion is they do not find it under Quiet Journey but a sub block under Canoeacopia. DNQ is the code for the Quiet Journey block. Not sure if Jake will be staying there, there is a $50 cleaning fee added to the total stay if you have a pet. If Jake does not stay I will have a bed open. FYI, I snore

Lynda made a reservation for us today at the special rate.  They said more rooms were still avalable in the block.

Some were asking about this and couldn’t seem to find it. I had to move a few rocks and a couple of trees, but here it is. Don’t forget to make your reservations.

Seems like a good plan, she goes luxury resort and you go to Canoecopia.

You got a great deal! I posted the rates from the contract. Maybe if others go ahead and reserve, they will get the same deal. No reason to wait, the rooms can be cancelled if your plans change, like if your wife plans a big getaway trip to a luxury resort without telling you.

The Holiday Inn Express sent me an email confirming $124/night rate for 2 Queen Standard room.  Maybe they are backwards. 

No worries.

Old Salt wrote on Apr 5^th, 2024 at 10:15pm:



I think you got it backwards. Lexdyslia?

I just booked a 2 Queen Room at the Holiday Inn Express Madison for Friday March 7 and Saturday March 8th 2025  @ Quiet Journey rate of $124/ night  plus tax ( Rich, your post has the King @ $134).  Julia was most helpful and she confirmed free shuttle availability and complimentary breakfast.

Looking forward to hooking up with fellow paddlers.

I’m glad to start a fresh new thread about next year’s Copia. I have some great news to report. We will gather at the Holiday Inn Express at 610 John Nolen Dr, directly across the road from the Alliant Center. The meeting room is free. They have a free shuttle service that will take you door to door on your schedule. If you change your mind about pickup time, just call them. My suggestion is give the driver a tip. We can do dinners in our room, as we have for years. We’ll organize those plans next year. 

We have a block of 10 rooms. To reserve one or more of these rooms, you’ll need to call them at
608-709-5050. Tell them you’re with the ‘QuietJourney’ group to get the discount. The rooms can be cancelled with at least 24 hours notice, if your plans change. If you reserve online, you will not count as part of our room block. So please call it in. Thanks 
We have 5 rooms of standard king rooms and 5 rooms of double queens. Tell them which kind you prefer.

Standard kings: $124 plus tax per night.
Standard Double Queens: $134 plus tax per night.

If you want a different room type, let me know what kind you want. It may be possible, depending on availability.
We will rebalance room types as needed or add rooms to our block as needed. So, when you book, please post here what you have booked. I have visited with the hotel folks and the Copia folks and the hotels are selling out sooner each year. My suggestion is to go ahead and book soon. Your card will not be charged until your stay next year. If you find you can’t come, you can cancel.

The cutoff date to get the discount is February 6, 2025. After that date there may or may not be availability at their published rate.
For those not familiar with Holiday Inn, they have a great selection for breakfasts, including eggs, sausages, bacon, waffles, etc. It’s a great way to start your day. Check their website for more details. My opinion is that this is the best deal we have ever had as a QJ group. Let’s make it work for years to come.