I had seen the Mississippi down south and wondered where it started so 2 years ago I found out. I cant help you as we have only been to Itasca State Park. I get up early so I rode my bicycle down to the headwaters early one morning and I was the only one there. Later that day DW was finally ready to go take some pics but there were now about 50 people all over the place. It was a beautiful morning as the sun came up and the fog hung on the water. I have considered the same trip but cant fit it in. Enjoy your trip.