While the North Shore rivers of Minnesota are great places for expert paddlers, most of them can be deadly for non-experts. The lower Baptism is no exception; it's winding, steep, and twisting, with class IV and V waters.

Be prepared before you go with shoes like these from Columbia, that can handle the water or the slippery rocks when you portage. Another good choice is these convertible pants from Merrell. Wear as shorts while you're in the water, and zip on the quick-dry bottoms to save your knees from scrapes when you're out.

You'll hit action right after you reach the dells. There are two offset holes that you can avoid with little trouble, then a sweet pool at the end where the river makes a sharp left turn. Below that, another rapid leads to a boulder that splits the flow. The left side is your best bet, but if you can handle the Baptism, you'll manage the right.

There are a few sharp drops ahead, including one ledge that's about 3 feet and also shoots you off to the left. Past that, get ready to get out (river left) and scout. Downstream from you is Illgen Falls, a 35-footer. It has been run, usually with only minor problems, and you'll probably pop right up from the churning froth at the bottom. Then portage around it (also river left) to a steep trail, and it's not easy to climb down carrying your kayak, but wiser heads usually take the portage route. Below that, be ready to go ashore (river left) to avoid hitting a footbridge and going down High Falls just beyond. High Falls is the highest waterfall in Minnesota, and you'd have to be crazy to try it. Carry the kayak, take the trail, and put in below.

There's plenty more to come, but don't try this river without a good guidebook (try "Paddling Minnesota" by Greg Breining). The lower Baptism is sure to give you more than one rush!

When the day's activities call for layering and lightweight, versatile pieces of clothing, a pair of convertible pants can help you get through the day's itinerary comfortably. These pants reduce the need to pack extra clothing for your trip because they can keep you warm and dry as a pair of trousers, and cool and comfortable as a pair of capris. Convertible capris are great for Spring and summer excursions in the backwoods, or even when you're hitting the beach for the day. They're a lightweight basic for any outdoor wardrobe, and the conversion process takes only a few seconds; just unzip and store the extra material in your backpack and you're ready to go.

Try on a pair of Kuhl Forester Convertible Capris to put these versatile pants to the test. The fitted waistband and adjustable fit side cinches make for a perfect fit for almost any body type, and the roomy pockets and extra wide belt loops give you plenty of options for carrying extra accessories. These straight-leg pants have a zipper embedded right below the knee, so you can just unzip in seconds to convert them into a pair of comfortable capris.

The pants are also designed for maximum range of motion; whether you're heading out on a climbing adventure, relaxing under the sun or trekking across a trail, you can move fluidly and easily. The two front curve hand pockets around the hips add a flattering touch to the design, and the curved back yoke provides some extra 'give' for those extra challenging trails.

Convertible pants made with lightweight materials will also keep you cool and comfortable when temperatures rise. You'll need the extra coverage of a pant when you're trekking through a rainforest or exploring rough territory, but you won't be weighed down when the pants are made with a light nylon and cotton blend. They can be worn with your favorite tee, a lightweight sweatshirt and any windbreaker or jacket. Convertible pants and capris are best paired up with a mules, clogs or sandals to make a complete outdoor ensemble that's high on comfort and versatility.