Curiosity goes for a hike
On a crisp mid-October Saturday morning, I set out for Rock River Heritage County Park, a new gem nestled along the banks of the Rock River in Janesville, Wisconsin. This park, opened just this past summer, stands where the old Camp Indian Trails once lay—a cherished ground for the local Boy Scouts of America. With...Continue reading
Late August brings a special kind of magic for nature enthusiasts at Lulu Lake, The Nature Conservancy. Though the season begins to wane, the landscape here defies expectations, bursting with vibrant wildflowers that stretch across fields and trails. Following the old railroad bed, I found myself surrounded by a breathtaking array of blooms still in...Continue reading
While hiking along the Ice Age Trail near Whitewater, Wisconsin, I stumbled upon something that stopped me in my tracks—a delicate cluster of Ghost Pipes. Perhaps I’d passed by them before, never noticing, but today, they stood out against the forest floor like whispered secrets. Tucked within the quiet shadows of the woodland, these ethereal...Continue reading
Recently, I came across a controlled burn along the Ice Age Trail in the Southern Kettle Moraine, a sight that opened up new paths of exploration I might not have dared venture into otherwise. I had previously marked this particular area using Google Maps’ satellite view. There, I could see unofficial trails winding through...Continue reading
In early May, I found myself wandering the woods along the Ice Age Trail, carrying a quiet sense of wonder and looking for any signs of wildflowers or small marvels waiting to be noticed. My walk began near Olsen Cabin, and I followed the trail for a while before veering off toward the John Muir...Continue reading
Everywhere a sign, here’s mine. I started volunteering with our local chapter of the Ice Age Trail Alliance in 2019. About 6 months before the nasty C word shut everything down. After many years of hiking and camping many different areas, it feels good to help preserve, protect and improve a trail system...
A recurring inquiry I often receive is, “Are the trails icy?” When it comes to trails in Wisconsin, especially after snowfall, one should anticipate icy conditions. The compacted snow on the paths undergoes a transformation into hardened snowpack, which swiftly transitions into ice. With the continuous cycle of snow, rain, snow, and fluctuating temperatures, it...Continue reading
Embarking on a winter hike amidst the chilling grip of a 0-degree Fahrenheit morning, the snow beneath my feet emits a satisfying chorus of crisp crunches and faint squeaks. This season holds a special place in my heart for these short ventures, as the air is filled with the serene rustling of leaves that tenaciously...Continue reading