Great Wisconsin Birding& NatureTrail · Birding and Nature Trail in 2004. This project divides the...
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Great Wisconsin Birding& NatureTrail Central Sands Prairie Region
Transcript of Great Wisconsin Birding& NatureTrail · Birding and Nature Trail in 2004. This project divides the...
GreatWisconsinBirding&NatureTrailCentral Sands Prairie Region
WelcomeWelcome to Wisconsin, where a wonderfulworld of wildlife watching awaits you.
Environmental tourism has become animportant part of our diverse mix of outdoorrecreation. Extensive wetlands, millions ofacres of wild places, a broad range of naturalhabitat, and a commitment to environmentalstewardship have made Wisconsin anoutstanding regional birding opportunity.More than any other state in the Great Lakesbasin, Wisconsin is positioned to promote andenjoy this popular activity.
To that end, we launched the Great WisconsinBirding and Nature Trail in 2004. This projectdivides the state into five wildlife-viewingregions. Driving trails that link importantwildlife sites within each region are beingdeveloped. The program is also producing aseries of birding guides to these regions – oneeach year. This is the fourth in that series, aguide to the Central Sands Prairie Region.
Wisconsin – life’s so good.
Jim Doyle, Governor
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ContentsIntroduction __________________________________ 2State Natural Areas ____________________________ 3Code of Ethics ________________________________ 3Central Sands Birding & Nature Trail Region Map ____ 4-5Using the Guide________________________________ 5Waypoint Index ________________________________ 6-7County Profiles
Adams County ____________________________ 8-10Calumet County ____________________________ 11-14Clark County ______________________________ 15-17Fond du Lac County ________________________ 18-21Green Lake County__________________________ 22-24Juneau County ____________________________ 25-28Marathon County __________________________ 29-33Marquette County __________________________ 34-37Menominee County ________________________ 38Monroe County ____________________________ 39-42Outagamie County __________________________ 43-45Portage County ____________________________ 46-49Shawano County __________________________ 50-52Waupaca County __________________________ 53-56Waushara County __________________________ 57-60Winnebago County ________________________ 61-63Wood County ______________________________ 66
More Sources of Tourism Information ______________ 68Wisconsin Welcome Centers ____________________ 69
Sandhill Cranes.
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Wing your waythrough Wild Wisconsin
The Great Wisconsin Birding and Nature Trailis your invitation to observe the fascinating anddiverse world of wildlife that exists in everycorner of the state.
By late 2008, theWisconsin DNR EndangeredResource Program will havedeveloped a series of fivehighway- based viewingguides, each highlightingunique regional ecosystemsof Wisconsin. Each will link aset of waypoints, refuges andwild places that offer the bestbirding and wildlife watching opportunities.
This is the fourth of those five guides - theCentral Sands Prairie Birding and Nature Trail. Itcovers seventeen Wisconsin counties in thecenter of the state. Published in 2007, it includes78 waypoints from the massive 43,000-acreNecedah National Wildlife Refuge in the west toHigh Cliff State Park in the east.
In 2008, the Southern Savanna Trails Birdingand Nature Trail will complete the series. The firstthree guides in the series, the Lake SuperiorNorthwoods edition released in 2004, theMississippi/Chippewa Rivers edition from 2005,
and the Lake Michigan editionfrom 2006, are still available inlimited numbers.
Waypoints on each trail willbe marked with the program’sdistinctive Sandhill Crane logo.As you travel, watch for thesesigns – they are your invitationto the fascinating world ofWisconsin wildlife.Waypoint marker.
Common Goldeneye in flight.
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Code of EthicsThe Great Wisconsin Birding and Nature Trail is your gate-
way to the natural world of Wisconsin. The Code of Ethicsserves to guide you as you seek your favorite waypoint sitesacross the state.
● Treat birds and other animals with respect, never disturbingor collecting anything in their habitat.
● Trails, roads and paths found at the sites provide goodaccess to the property. Avoid leaving them unless you arein a wilderness area.
● Wisconsin has strict trespass laws.Private property does not have tobe posted or fenced in Wisconsin.Ask permission if you want toenter private land. Know whereyou are – pay attention to postedproperty boundary signs.
● Dogs must be leashed on all statelands during the bird-nesting sea-son from April 15 through July 31.
● Lead by example. Leave the property litter-free and in goodcondition for the next traveler.
● Give nature a voice. Thank the property owner, manageror staff person for the opportunity to enjoy nature at theirsite.
State Natural AreasWisconsin’s State Natural Areas(SNAs) protect outstanding exam-ples of native biological commu-nities such as prairies, pine bar-rens, bogs, and boreal forests.They also preserve significantgeological and archaeologicalfeatures and are often the lastrefuges in Wisconsin for rarespecies of birds, animals, plants,fungi, lichens, and a host ofother organisms.
Monarch Butterfly.
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MARQUETTE
COLUMBIA
DANE
GREEN
LAKE FOND
DOD
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MENOMI
SHAWANO
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Viroqua
Westby
Richland Center
SpringGreen
Sun Prairie
DeForestSauk City
Prairie du Sac Lodi
Poynette
Columbus
Wyocena
PardeevillePortage
RandolphFox Lake
Montello
PrincetonRipo
Green Lake
Berlin
WautomaColomaNecedah
WildRose
Weyauwe
Waupaca
AmherstIola
Plover
NL
ClintonvilleMarion
Schofield
MosineeElderon
WittenbergBirnamwood
Aniwa
Antigo
Omro
Babcock
Wisconsin Rapids
Nekoosa
Pittsville
Marshfield
Spencer
Unity
Withee
Thorp Abbotsford
ska
W. Salem
SpartaTomah
BlackRiver Falls
Hixton
Millston
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Neillsville
Fairchild
Augusta
Oxford
Baraboo
Reedsburg
La Valle
UnionCenter
Hillsboro
Ontario
WiltonNew Lisbon
Mauston
Adams
Friendship
Cornell GilmanMedford
MerrillPolar
Summit LakeElcho
Cadott
Ladysmith
Prentice
Tomahawk
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Shawa
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AdamsCounty
Pgs. 8-10
Green LakeCounty
Pgs. 22-24 Marquette
CountyPgs. 34-37
JuneauCounty
Pgs. 25-28
MonroeCounty
Pgs. 39-42
MarathonCounty
Pgs. 29-33
WausharaCounty
Pgs. 57-60
WaupacaCounty
Pgs. 53-56
PortageCounty
Pgs. 46-49
ClarkCounty
Pgs. 15-17
WoodCounty
Pgs. 64-66
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Great WisconsinBirding& NatureTrailCentral Sands Region
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Green Bay
River
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Brown DeerMequonCedarburg
Grafton
Port Washington
Waupun
Horicon
HORICONNATIONALWILDLIFEREFUGE
Hartford
Slinger
Jackson
West Bend
RandomLake
SheboygaPlymouth
KielNew Holstien
Chilton
Brillion
Reedsville
Denmark
Brussels
De Pere
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New ondon
Seymour
PulaskiBonduel
ElkhartLake
Watertown
Saukville
Mountain
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Marinette
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ShawanoCounty
Pgs. 50-52
OutagamieCounty
Pgs. 43-45
CalumetCounty
Pgs. 11-14
WinnebagoCounty
Pgs. 61-63
Fond du LacCounty
Pgs. 18-21
MenomineeCountyPg. 38
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Using the GuideInformation for this
guide was gatheredlocally from Wisconsin
DNR, naturalists, birders,and a range of wildlife
enthusiasts. Each site wasnominated locally and eval-uated as part of the region-al project.
Site informationincludes a contact phonenumber, driving directions,a small locator map, adescription of the property,common and rare birds andwildlife, and a Web site ifavailable. Except as noted,admission to these proper-ties is free. Hours areincluded, even though mostproperties are open 24/7.
As you would expect,most of these waypointsare remote, wild locations.While every effort has beenmade to provide accuratedriving instructions, we rec-ommend that you bring acounty map or gazetteer tohelp in finding these sites.Other prudent equipmentwould include a compass,flashlight, water, a granolabar or two, insect repellant,and a good pair of walk-ing/hiking shoes.
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Waypoint IndexPage
Adams County1. Colburn State Wildlife Area____________________________________________82. Dells of the Wisconsin River State Natural Area _________________________93. Quincy Bluff & Wetlands State Natural Area ____________________________104. Roche-a-Cri State Park & Roche-a-Cri Mound State Natural Area __________10
Calumet County5. Brillion Nature Center _________________________________________________116. Brillion State Wildlife Area ____________________________________________127. Calumet County Park__________________________________________________128. High Cliff State Park & High Cliff Escarpment State Natural Area _________139. Killsnake State Wildlife Area___________________________________________1410. Ledge View County Park & Nature Center_______________________________14
Clark County11. Mead Lake County Parks – North & South_______________________________1512. Rock Dam Lake County Park ___________________________________________1613. Schmidt Maple Woods State Natural Area ______________________________1614. Sportsman Lake State Wildlife Area ____________________________________17
Fond du Lac County15. Eldorado State Wildlife Area___________________________________________1816. Kettle Moraine State Forest – Northern Unit, Ice Age Trail Visitor Center
& Haskell Noyes Woods State Natural Area _____________________________1917. Marsh Haven Nature Center ___________________________________________2018. Mullet Creek State Wildlife Area _______________________________________2019. Spruce Lake Bog State Natural Area – Northern Unit Kettle Moraine
State Forest __________________________________________________________21
Green Lake County20. Grand River Marsh State Wildlife Area & Fountain Creek Wet Prairie
State Natural Area ____________________________________________________2221. Green Lake Bike Trails _________________________________________________2322. Puchyan Prairie State Natural Area _____________________________________2323. White River Marsh State Wildlife Area__________________________________24
Juneau County24. Buckhorn State Park & State Wildlife Area ______________________________2525. Cranberry Creek Mound Group State Natural Area ______________________2626. Elroy-Sparta State Trail ________________________________________________2627. Mill Bluff State Park___________________________________________________2728. Necedah National Wildlife Refuge _____________________________________28
Marathon County29. Big Eau Pleine County Park & Dells of the Eau Claire River
State Natural Area ____________________________________________________2930. Big Eau Pleine Woods State Natural Area _______________________________3031. Bluegill Bay County Park ______________________________________________3032. George W. Mead State Wildlife Area ___________________________________3133. Leigh Yawkey Woodson Art Museum ___________________________________3234. Nine-Mile County Forest_______________________________________________3235. Rib Mountain State Park ______________________________________________33
Marquette County36. Comstock Bog Meadow State Natural Area _____________________________3437. Germania Marsh State Wildlife Area ___________________________________3538. Mecan River State Fishery & Wildlife Area ______________________________3639. Muir Park State Natural Area __________________________________________3640. Observatory Hill State Natural Area ____________________________________37
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Menominee County41. Menominee County Indian Reservation _________________________________ 38
Monroe County42. Big Creek State Fishery Area ___________________________________________3943. Fort McCoy (Military Reservation) Barrens State Natural Area ____________4044. La Crosse River State Fishery Area ______________________________________4045. La Crosse River Trail Prairie State Natural Area __________________________4146. Meadow Valley State Wildlife Area_____________________________________42
Outagamie County47. Bubolz Nature Preserve _______________________________________________4348. Mack State Wildlife Area & DOT Mitigation Site_________________________4449. Outagamie County State Wildlife Area _________________________________4450. Wolf River Bottoms State Wildlife Area _________________________________45
Portage County51. Buena Vista Grasslands ________________________________________________4652. Dewey Marsh State Natural Area_______________________________________4753. Iverson Park __________________________________________________________4854. Richard A. Hemp State Fishery Area ____________________________________4855. Schmeeckle Reserve ___________________________________________________49
Shawano County56. Jung Hemlock-Beech Forest State Natural Area__________________________5057. Mountain-Bay State Trail ______________________________________________5158. Navarino State Wildlife Area & Nature Center___________________________5159. Shawano Lake & County Park __________________________________________52
Waupaca County60. Hartman Creek State Park & Emmons Creek Fishery Area ________________5361. Keller Whitcomb Creek Woods State Natural Area_______________________5462. Mukwa State Wildlife Area ____________________________________________5463. Myklebust Lake State Natural Area_____________________________________5564. Waupaca County Sturgeon Trail________________________________________56
Waushara County65. Greenwood State Wildlife Area ________________________________________5766. Karner Blue Meadow State Natural Area _______________________________5867. Mecan Springs & River State Fishery Area _______________________________5868. Mount Morris Hills Park _______________________________________________5969. Poygan State Wildlife Area ____________________________________________6070. Wild Rose Fish Hatchery _______________________________________________60
Winnebago County71. Oshkosh-Larsen Trail Prairies ___________________________________________6172. Rat River State Wildlife Area___________________________________________6273. Rush Lake State Natural Area __________________________________________6274. Wolf River State Wildlife Area _________________________________________63
Wood County75. Paul Olson State Wildlife Area _________________________________________6476. Powers Bluff Maple Woods State Natural Area __________________________6577. Sandhill State Wildlife Area____________________________________________6578. Wood County Wildlife Area ___________________________________________66
Adams CountyWhen the last great glacier swept through Wisconsin12,000 years ago leveling much of the Midwest, itspared the southwestern corner of the state includingAdams County.
Consequently, the county’s landscape is graced bymany fanciful spires, buttes and mesas that were onceislands in Glacial Lake Wisconsin. Native Americans andtheir European successors gave these solitary pinnaclescolorful names like Ship Rock, Friendship Mound, RabbitRock, Roche-A-Cri, and Lone Rock.
As the glacier retreated, its meltwater carved the state’s lakes andrivers, including the Wisconsin River that forms the western border ofAdams County. That border includes two large impounded lakes onthe Wisconsin River – Petenwell Lake and the Castle Rock Flowage. At23,040 and 13,955 acres respectively, the lakes are the second thefifth largest in Wisconsin. The lakes are havens of water recreationoffering quality walleye fishing and plenty of water for all types ofboating.
Near Friendship, the county seat, you can visit Roche-A-Cri StatePark (608/339-6881, www.wiparks.net). The French name refers tothe 300-foot-high rock outcropping that is the central feature of thisquiet park. Climb the stairway to the top for a spectacular panoramicview. The park contains Native American pictographs (rock paintings)and Petroglyphs (rock carvings) that date to 100 A.D., as well as 41family campsites and 6 miles of hiking trails.
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Colburn State Wildlife AreaNearly 5,000 acres of marshes andforests draw in a nice variety of birdsand wildlife. Look for herons and egretsin the marshes that run along Carterand Big Dry Creeks. The wooded areasare attractive to many nesting songbirdspecies and numer-ous woodpeckers.Bald Eagles are fre-quently seen huntingover Colburn, whichis just a few mileseast of the WisconsinRiver. The propertysupports many mam-mals including deer,badgers, woodchucks, mink, fox andcoyotes. Colburn is a great place tohike and fish. Good roads, includingRustic Road R-50, take you around andthrough this property. Directions: From Friendship drive northon Hwy 13 about ten miles to Cty C,then east on C six miles to the property.
Phone: 715/421-7800Web: www.dnr.wi.govSignature species: SandhillCranes, Ruffed Grouse &American Black DuckRare species: Sedge Wren, Veery& Pileated WoodpeckerGazetteer: Page 52, D-3Parking: Parking lotsNearest food & lodging:Friendship
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2 Dells of the Wisconsin River State Natural Area
This property is 1,300 acres in size andprotects some of the most pristineareas of the Dells of the WisconsinRiver in parts of Adams, Columbia,Juneau and Sauk Counties. The birdingopportunities are great along a spectac-ular gorge, cliffs, tributary canyons, andunusual rock formations carved by thecatastrophic drainage of glacial LakeWisconsin some 12,000 years ago. Thesandy uplands are wooded with bothhardwood and pine species, includinghemlock, red oak and white pine. Thisforest diversity draws in many differentspecies of birds. Many unusual plantsgrow here including tiny asters, ferns,and sedges. Directions: From Wisconsin Dells, goeast 0.6 miles on Hwy 13, then north1.7 miles on River Road to a parkingarea west of the road. A hiking trailleads to the river. Another parking areais located 1.9 miles farther north alongRiver Road. The rock formations arebest seen by water. A boat landing is
located on River Road, 0.5 mile north of Hwy 13. The cliffs and sidecanyons are closed to the public to protect sensitive features.
Phone: 608/339-3385Web: www.dnr.wi.govSignature Species: NorthernRough-winged Swallow, BankSwallow, Cliff Swallow & BarnSwallowRare Species: Yellow Warbler,Prothonotary Warbler & NorthernWaterthurshGazetteer: Page 43, C-5Parking: Parking areasNearest food & lodging:Wisconsin Dells
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Dells of theWisconsin RiverState NaturalArea
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ADAMS CO.
COLUMBIA CO.SAUK CO.
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Fall color along the Upper Dells.
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Roche-a-Cri State Park & Roche-a-CriMound State Natural Area
This 605-acre state park is dominatedby a 300-foot-high rocky butte thatonce stood as an island surrounded bythe waters of glacial Lake Wisconsin.There is excellent interpretive informa-tion about the rock at the foot of the303-step wooden stairs that takes youto the top. Once atthe top, you’ll get abird’s-eye view of theflat Central Sandsplain that unfoldsbefore you. TurkeyVultures use the highmound as a roostsite. Below, a longand steep talus slopeand small rock shelter contains NativeAmerican petroglyphs (rock carvings).Don’t forget your camera!Directions: From Friendship, go northon Hwy 13 two miles to the parkentrance.
Phone: 608/565-2789Web: www.dnr.wi.gov Signature species: TurkeyVultures & Bald EaglesRare species: Common Raven,Winter Wren & Blue-grayGnatcatcher Gazetteer: Page 52, D-2Parking: Parking lotsNearest food & lodging:FriendshipFee: Park fees apply
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Roche-a-Cri MoundState Natural Area
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Quincy Bluff & Wetlands State Natural AreaQuincy Bluff & Wetlands is a 5,102acre, landscape-scale natural area inthe flat, sandy bed of former GlacialLake Wisconsin. Quincy Bluff andRattlesnake Mound are both sandstonemesas that border this vast wetlandcomplex of sedge meadow, tamarackswamp, shrub-carr and small ponds.Low sandy ridges support barrens com-munities of jack pine and Hill’s oak.Quincy Bluff looms 200 feet above thewetland and is forested with oak andpine. Small forest openings supportprairie plants and draw in some inter-esting grassland sparrows. Overhead,Turkey Vultures and Bald Eagles soar onwarm currents of air, while Red-tailedHawks perch on tree limbs alongwoodland edges.Directions: From the intersection ofHwy 13 and Cty H east of White Creek,go west 2.4 miles on Cty H, then north0.4 miles on 16th Ave, then west 0.5miles on Evergreen Ave, then north 2.4miles on 16th Drive to a parking areaeast of the road.
Phone: 608/339-3385Web: www.dnr.wi.gov Signature species: WillowFlycatcher, Great Blue Heron &Common RavenRare species: Blue-headed Vireo,Red-headed Woodpecker, GrayJay & Golden-crowned KingletGazetteer: Page 43, B-5Parking: Parking areaNearest food & lodging:Friendship
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Calumet CountyOccupying much of the eastern shore of LakeWinnebago, Wisconsin’s largest inland lake, CalumetCounty is a beautiful landscape of rolling farms brokenby panoramic limestone cliffs and wetlands teemingwith wildlife. Friendly small towns and eco-tourismbring travelers back again and again.
The county’s most prominent geologic feature isthe Niagara Escarpment, a low line of dolomitic lime-stone bluffs that rises above the countryside. One of
several ancient ridges in the bedrock of the Great Lakes Basin, theNiagara Escarpment begins in New York State, arches west over LakeHuron into Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, then down through DoorCounty to the Wisconsin-Illinois border.
You can camp atop the escarpment at High Cliff State Park nearSherwood, (920/989-1106, www.wiparks.net). The park offers 112family campsites, 10 miles of mountain bike trails, Indian effigymounds and a terrific beach and marina on Lake Winnebago. Thepark is particularly lovely in autumn when the fall colors play againstthe bluffs.
To learn more about the area’s geology, flora and fauna, visit theLedge View Nature Center near Chilton, the county seat (920/849-7094, www.co.calumet.wi.us). This 105-acre park includes a 60-footobservation tower, three natural caves, an arboretum, 2.5 miles oftrails and a nature center with museum-quality, interactive exhibits.Staffed by three naturalists, the nature center is open 8am-4:30pmweekdays and 10am-4:30pm weekends.
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Brillion Nature CenterThe Brillion Nature Center features alarge marsh, pond, and trails for view-ing wildlife. It’s a great place to watchducks, Sandhill Cranes, herons andnesting Osprey. Aquaticinsects and frogs can befound in Jason’s Pond.Wisconsin fish, reptiles,and amphibians can beviewed inside the naturecenter. There’s a board-walk trail to a viewingplatform. Trails also leadto marsh overlooks.Watch for mink andmuskrats in and along the pond edges.The 20-year-old prairie restoration heredraws a mix of grassland birds and but-terflies. Special events and hikes areheld throughout the year and are listedon the center’s website. Directions: From Brillion drive 1.5 milessouth on Cty PP, then west on DeerView Road to the parking lots.
Phone: 920/756-3591Web:www.brillionnaturecenter.net/Signature species: Osprey,Yellow-headed Blackbird & SedgeWrenRare Species: Least Bittern,American Egret & ProthonotaryWarblerGazetteer: Page 55, C-8Seasonality: Open all yearParking: Parking lotsNearest food & lodging:Brillion or Hilbert
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Brillion State Wildlife AreaThis 5,000-acre property offers 7.5miles of trails for hiking and birding.There are many species of birds on themarsh, but of particular interest is thecounty’s largest population of SandhillCranes. A boardwalk trail leads to alarge viewing platform that extends outinto the marsh. From here you can viewthe cranes as well as nesting Osprey.Black terns fly over the marshes andLong-billed Marsh Wrens call from thecattails. Listen for the melodiousscreech of Yellow-headed Blackbirds asthey call from watery perches in themarshes. Both the North Branch of theManitowoc River and Spring Creek flowthrough the property.Directions: South of Brillion, Cty PPconnects to many parking areas on theeast side of the property. Access thenorth and west sides vis Conservation,Bastian, Irish, Hilbert, Riemer, or VossRoads.
Phone: 920/832-1804Web: www.dnr.wi.govSignature species: Osprey,Sandhill Crane, Yellow-headedBlackbird, Long-billed MarshWren & warblersRare Species: Peregrine Falcon,Upland Sandpiper, Henslow’sSparrow & Short-eared OwlsGazetteer: Page 55, C-7Seasonality: Open all yearParking: Parking lotsNearest food & lodging:Brillion or Hilbert
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7 Calumet County ParkThis lovely 200-acre county park islocated due south of High Cliff StatePark on the eastern shore of LakeWinnebago. It offers 71 campsites, amarina and boat launch, a concessionbuilding, five miles ofhiking/mountain bik-ing trails, and historicIndian effigy mounds.It boasts the bestwarbler viewing in thecounty includingConnecticut, Prairieand Black-throatedBlues. Look for smallshorebirds feedingalong the beaches inspring and fall as wellas many species of ducks just off shore.American White Pelicans nest on thislake and are interesting to see as theyfly in graceful formations overhead. Directions: From Sherwood, drive southfive miles on Hwy 55 to Cty EE west 1.5miles to the park entrance.
Phone: 920/849-1494 or 439-1008Web: www.travelcalumet.com Signature species: Yellow-headed Blackbird, Black Tern,Tennessee Warbler & WesternMeadowlarkRare species: Henslow’sSparrow, Forester’s Tern &Peregrine FalconGazetteer: Page 55, C-6Seasonality: Open all yearParking: Parking lotsNearest food & lodging:Sherwood, Chilton and Menasha
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High Cliff State Park & High CliffEscarpment State Natural Area
This state park is the only state-ownedrecreation area on Lake Winnebago,Wisconsin’s largest inland lake. Thepark offers a marina,historic site, 112campsites, 5 miles ofhiking trails, and anaccessible cabin forpeople with disabili-ties. Lake Winnebagodraws in large rafts ofwaterfowl duringmigrations in thespring and fall. TheState Natural Area fea-tures both shaded andexposed cliff habitats along the Niagaraescarpment, talus slopes supportingwet-mesic forest, more than a mile ofLake Winnebago shoreline, and out-standing examples of conical and effigymounds in the level woodland aboutthe escarpment.Directions: From Sherwood drive west2 miles on Spring Hill Road to the park.The Lime-Kiln Hiking Trail providesaccess to the natural area.
Phone: 920/989-1106Web: www.dnr.wi.govSignature species: TrumpeterSwan, American White Pelican,Northern Parula Warbler & Red-breasted NuthatchRare species: Snow Bunting,Winter Wren, Orchard Oriole,Dickcissel, Upland Sandpiper &Yellow-breasted ChatGazetteer: Page 55, C-6Seasonality: Open all yearParking: Parking lotsNearest food & lodging:Sherwood, Chilton and Menasha Fee: Park fees apply
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9 Killsnake State Wildlife AreaNearly 6,000 acres in size, the KillsnakeState Wildlife Area is a favorite placefor wildlife viewers because of therivers, marshes, brushy areas and size-able cedar swampthat harbor a diverseavian population.The property extendseast into ManitowocCounty. Its waterresources include theManitowoc, Killsnakeand Cedar Rivers.There are prairierestorations and oldgrassy fields that attract many grass-land birds as well as interesting mam-mals, like badgers. In the fall, look forShort-eared Owls hunting over themeadows. In winter, look for Rough-legged Hawks while Snow Buntingsand Lapland Longspurs flock alongroadsides and in fields.
Directions: Located 3 miles northeast of Chilton via Hwy 151 or Cty Y.
Phone: 920/832-1804Web: www.dnr.wi.govSignature species: Sedge Wren,Northern Harrier, GrasshopperSparrow & BobolinkRare species: Upland Sandpiper,Wilson’s Phalarope & DickcisselGazetteer: Page 55, D-8Seasonality: Open all yearParking: Parking lotsNearest food & lodging:Chilton
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Ledge View County Park & Nature CenterThis 104-acre county park is home tothe Ledge View Nature Center. Thepark has a 60-foot observation tower,an abandoned Niagara dolostone quar-ry, three natural caves, an arboretumand 2.5 miles of hikingtrails. There is an exhib-it building with live ani-mals and museum-quality interactive edu-cational exhibits on theNiagara Escarpment,bats, lake sturgeon andbirds. Hike on yourown or join one of thenaturalists for a birdhike. Explore the caves with a guide orclimb the observation tower to get abird’s-eye view of the area. The escarp-ment is so named because it runs westfrom Niagara Falls, disappears underLake Erie, reappears in Door Countyand runs south through Illinois to Iowa.Directions: Located on Short Road 1.5miles south of Chilton via Cty G.
Phone: 920/849-7094Web: www.travelcalumet.com Signature species: Red-belliedWoodpecker, Bobolink, EasternWood Pewee & Willow FlycatcherRare species: LoggerheadShrike, Common Raven & ScarletTanagerGazetteer: Page 55, D-7Seasonality: Open all yearParking: Parking lotNearest food & lodging:Chilton
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Grasshopper Sparrow
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Clark CountySeventeen percent of Clark County’s 1,216 squaremiles is county forest – that’s 207 square miles or133,000 acres of recreation. The county’s elevenparks are located within the forest, which also offers135 miles of summer-use ATV trails, 16 miles oflooped single-track motorcycle trails at Knobby Ridge,and 34 miles of looped non-motorized biking andcross-country skiing trails at the Levis/Trow MoundRecreational Area.
Neillsville, in the southern part of the county, is the county seat. Itoffers a pair of unusual museums and a beautiful veterans’ memorialpark.
The 1897 Jail Museum, an imposing four-story brick buildingwith a pair of turrets, is more fortress-like than penal (715-743-6444,www.clark-cty-wi.org/JailMuseum.htm). Tours include the sheriff’s resi-dence, a charming, old-fashioned living quarters, as well as the bleakcellblocks.
The Wisconsin Pavilion originally served as the state’s exhibit hallat the 1964-65 New York World’s Fair (715/743-3333, www.clark-city-wi.org/Pavilion.htm). Dismantled and reassembled in Neillsville, thepavilion now houses four radio stations, a cheese and gift shop and aprivate collection of New York World’s Fair memorabilia.
The Highground Veterans Memorial Park pays tribute toAmerica’s war dead and honors surviving veterans, their service, andtheir sacrifice (715/743-4224, www.thehighground.org). The 140-acrepark overlooks 500,000 acres of woodland scenery. It includes manysculptures that honor America’s veterans.
Mead Lake County Parks – North & SouthMead Lake is the largest lake in ClarkCounty, boasting a pair of county parksalong its shores. There are paths, boatramps and roads to explore for manyspecies of birds. The parks include wet-lands, woodlands, open water andshrubby marshlands; each habitat holdsspecies different from the next. Duringspring and fall, waterfowl of all typesinclude Northern Pintail, Ring-neckedand Redhead ducks. American Bitternand Green Herons use the marshesalong the Eau Claire River. Here, youcan see many species of warblers,thrushes, and sparrows. Overhead,Osprey and Bald Eagles soar on sum-mer thermals. This is a great place for arelaxing paddle around the lake.Directions: From Greenwood, go west7 miles on Cty G/Rock Creek Rd, thennorth 1.5 miles on Bachelors Avenue toeither North Lake or South Lake Roads.
Phone: 715/743-5140Web: www.co.clark.wi.usSignature species: Black-and-white Warbler & Clay-coloredSparrowRare species: American WhitePelican & OspreyGazetteer: Page 62, B-2Seasonality: Open all yearParking: Parking lotsClosest food & lodging:Greenwood
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Schmidt Maple Woods State Natural AreaThe western part of Clark County isheavily forested with a nice mix ofprairie, forests, scrub and hardwoodstands. It offers the traveler habitat thatattracts a variety of birds and wildlife.Schmidt Maple Woods is a gentlyrolling, wooded, 87-acre property thatcontains one of the best southern mesicforests in this part of the state. Sugarmaple, basswood, hickory, elm and ashtrees offer habitat to songbirds andwildlife. Trillium, violets and wild gerani-ums bloom in the spring, while thesugar maple leaves turn brilliant colorsin the fall. Look for Common Ravens,White-throated Sparrows and numerousspecies of warblers, woodpeckers, andthrushes as you walk the area.Directions: From Stanley, go south 1.5miles on Cty NN, then east 1 mile onCty N, then south 1.25 miles onCopenhaver Avenue to the northeastcorner of the property.
Rock Dam Lake County ParkRock Dam Lake is a hotspot for ducks,herons and other water birds. Bothpaved and unpaved roads traverse thearea, so it’s easy to bird by car. One ofthe best roads to cruse is Camp GloveRoad. A number of small creeks andstreams flow through the area andattract a variety of birds. Look for Pineand Yellow Warblers along the water-ways, and Tufted Titmice and Sharp-shinned Hawks in the shrubby growth.Beaver dams oftencut across thestreams and creeks.The pools of waterthat form behind thedams attract BeltedKingfishers andGreen Herons. Blackbears and porcupinesenjoy the largeblocks of forest here and can be seenalong the roads at dawn or dusk.Directions: From Fairchild in the south-east corner of Eau Claire County, travel8 miles north on Cty H, then 5.5 mileseast on Rock Dam Road to the park.
Clark County
Phone: 715/743-5140Web: www.co.clark.wi.us/ Signature species: Red-belliedWoodpecker, Hermit Thrush &Broad-winged HawkRare species: Red-headedWoodpeckerGazetteer: Page 62, C-2Seasonality: Open all yearParking: Parking lotsNearest food & lodging:Neillsville
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Phone: 715/232-1517Web: www.dnr.wi.govSignature Species: IndigoBunting, Scarlet Tanager &Chestnut-sided WarblerRare species: Red-shoulderedHawk & Winter WrenGazetteer: Page 62, A-1Seasonality: Open all yearParking: Park on roadsideNearest food & lodging:Stanley or Thorpe
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Sportsman Lake Wildlife AreaClark County owns this 1,200-acrewildlife area dominated by open marshand grassy uplands. It’s a good place tolearn your waterfowl and add somenew species to your checklist. Duringspring and fall migra-tions it attracts a vari-ety of waterfowl andwetland birds includingBlack Terns, Black-crowned Night Herons,and Lesser Yellowlegs.Canvasback,Bufflehead, NorthernPintails and RuddyDucks can be seenhere. The watershed also contains nest-ing Bald Eagles and a small flock ofPrairie Chickens, so be sure to drivealong the roads that circle the property.Wild Turkeys are seen year-round, whileWhite-fronted and Snow Geese use theproperty in spring and fall.Directions: From Owen, drive north1.5 miles on Cty D, then west on PineRoad.
Phone: 715/ 743-5140Web: www.co.clark.wi.us/ Signature species: Tundra Swan& American WoodcockRare species: Least andAmerican Bittern, Sora Rail &American Black DuckGazetteer: Page 62, A-4Parking: Parking lotsNearest food & lodging: Owenor Withee
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Fond du Lac CountyLocated at the foot of Lake Winnebago, Fond du Lac(French for “far end of the lake”) County welcomesbirders with open arms. To the east, the county bordersthe Northern Unit of the Kettle Moraine State Forest. Tothe south, it crosses the northern perimeter of theGreat Horicon Marsh. Both are prime avian habitat.
To the west, Ripon is the home of Ripon-goodcookies, Republicans and really big horses. You can tourthe Little White Schoolhouse where the Republican
party was founded in 1854 (920/748-6764, www.ripon-wi.com).Outside of town, you can visit Larson’s Famous Clydesdales whereringside performances and stable tours showcase these gentle giants(920/748-5466, www.larsonsclydesdales.com).
In Fond du Lac, the county seat, you can view the NiagaraEscarpment and beautiful shoreline of Lake Winnebago aboard theLakeside Sprit (800/937-9123, www.fdl.com). Enjoy 400-acreLakeside Park where you can climb to the top of the city’s light-house, ride an antique carousel or miniature railway, or feed the deer(800/937-9123, www.fdl.com). History thrives at the GallowayHouse & Village (920/922-1166, www.fdl.com/history). The complexof thirty historic buildings includes the 30-room Victorian GallowayHouse and the Blakely Museum. South of town, the Wild GooseState Trail runs 32 miles south to Clyman Junction in southernDodge County (920/929-3135, www.wiparks.net). This hiking-bikingtrail skirts the western edge of the Horicon Marsh, a 32,000-acreavian paradise.
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Eldorado State Wildlife AreaEldorado is one of the richest marshesin the area; a favorite place for birdwatchers. Grasslands, marshes, wood-lands and brushy areas accent this6,371-acre property. Open water areasof the marsh attractsome unusual shore-birds in years whenwater levels are lowand there areexposed mud flatsfor feeding.Hundreds of SandhillCranes congregatehere during the fallmigration to feed and rest before trav-eling south. In the winter, look forHorned Larks and flocks of SnowBuntings and Lapland Longspurs onsnowy roads and fields. OccasionalSnowy Owls are also seen in winter. Directions: From Eldorado, travel 2miles north on Cty C, then east 1 mileon Cty N.
Phone: 920/424-7896Web: www.dnr.wi.gov Signature species: Great BlueHeron, Green Heron, GreaterYellowleg, Sandhill Crane,American & Least BitternRare Species: Long-billedDowitcher, Caspian Tern,American Woodcock,Loggerhead Shirke & UplandSandpiperGazetteer: Page 46, B-1Seasonality: Open all yearNearest food & lodging:Fond du Lac
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Kettle Moraine State Forest – NorthernUnit, Ice Age Trail Visitor Center & HaskellNoyes Woods State Natural Area
This 30,000-acre state forest includesstate natural areas and the Ice AgeTrail. Visitors can explore rolling hills,lakes, forest and grasslands containingmany interesting habitats, species ofanimals and plants. Astop at the Henry S.Reuss Visitor Centeris the perfect way tolearn about thisglaciated area thatincludes numerouskames, kettles, andridges left behind bythe glaciers. Alsofound within this property is the HaskellNoyes Woods SNA, a classic example ofsouthern dry-mesic forest dominated bysugar maple and red oak. Spring wild-flowers are scattered throughout thesite and put on a showy display in Apriland May. Directions: From Campbellsport, travelnortheast about 5 miles on Hwy 67 tothe Henry S. Reuss Visitor Center. Thereare many other entrances to this largestate forest.
Phone: 262/626-2116 (StateForest); 920/533-8322 (Ice AgeTrail Visitor Center)Web: www.dnr.wi.govSignature Species: Black-capped Chickadee, White andRed-breasted Nuthatch &Warbling Vireo Rare Species: Winter Wren,Brown Creeper, Blue-winged,Nashville & Golden-wingedWarblerGazetteer: Page 46, C-4Seasonality: Open all yearNearest food & lodging:Campbellsport
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Fond du Lac County
Mullet Creek State Wildlife AreaThis 2,177-acre property is a mix ofmarshes, woods and grasslands. Theopen water draws many species ofwaterfowl during migration, while thelarger landscape attracts Red-tailHawks, Northern Harriers, Bald Eaglesand Turkey Vultures. Warblers nests inthe woodlots, while Baltimore Orioles,Eastern Phoebes, and White-eyedVireos nest in the scattered trees andbrushy areas. Look for LoggerheadShrikes perched in lone trees, andAmerican Kestrels as they hover abovethe grasslands and meadows huntingfor small mammals. Coyotes, deer,woodchucks and mink are commonhere; an evening drive should yieldmany good sightings. Directions: Located 12 miles east ofFond du Lac via Hwy 23 to HillviewRoad, then south to entrance.
Phone: 920/424-7896Web: www.dnr.wi.govSignature species: AmericanWoodcock, Sandhill Crane, WildTurkey & Ruffed GrouseRare species: American WhitePelican, Loggerhead Shrike,Upland Sandpiper & BobolinkGazetteer: Page 46, B-4Seasonality: Open all yearParking: Parking lotsNearest food & lodging:Fond du Lac
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Marsh Haven Nature CenterThis private, non-profit, 47-acre naturecenter is located next to HoriconNational Wildlife Refuge. It offers agood mix of habitat with hiking trailsthat access prairies,wetlands and wood-lands. At the end ofthe woodland trail,visitors can climb anobservation towerwith a greatoverview of themarsh. Marsh Havenoffers hikes andtours, a museum, art gallery, gift shopand classroom. Spectacular migrationsof Canada Geese are seen during fallmigrations with numbers of birdsreaching more than 100,000. Therestored prairies are best viewed in Julyand August when blooming wildflow-ers are at their peak attracting numer-ous species of colorful butterflies. Directions: Located 3 miles east ofWaupun on Hwy 49.
Phone: 920/887-9899Web: www.marshhaven.com/ Signature species: CanadaGeese, Trumpeter Swan &Yellow-headed BlackbirdRare Species: Least Bittern,Northern Shoveler, Red-shouldered Hawk & AmericanBlack DuckGazetteer: Page 45, C-7Seasonality: Open mid-Aprilthrough mid-November.Parking: Parking lotNearest food & lodging:WaupunFee: Admission fee
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Marsh HavenNature Center
WaupunHORICON MARSH
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Spruce Lake Bog State Natural Area –Northern Unit Kettle Moraine State Forest
Located two miles north of the HenryS. Reuss Visitor Center, this propertyfeatures an undisturbed shallow seep-age bog lake in one of the area’s manykettle holes. The 35-acre lake supportsa great show of blooming water lilies inthe summer. The vegetation found hereis rich in plants more characteristic ofnorthern Wisconsin sphagnum bogs;Black spruce, cottongrass, royal fern andpitcher plants. Thisnorthern plant com-munity supportsnorthern species ofbirds that nest here,giving you theopportunity to seethem without goingtoo far north. A trail and boardwalklead from the parking area to the lake.Directions: From Campbellsport, drivenortheast 7 miles on Hwy 67, thenwest 0.2 mile on Cty F, then north 1.3miles on Vista Dr, then west .05 mileson Airport Rd to a parking area northof the road.
Phone: 262/626-2116Web: www.dnr.wi.gov Gazetteer: Page 46, C-4Signature species: CommonYellowthroat, Swamp Sparrow,Veery & Alder FlycatcherRare species: NorthernWaterthrush, Nashville & CanadaWarbler & White-throatedSparrowSeasonality: Open all yearNearest food & lodging:Campbellsport
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A blaze of fall color in the Kettle Moraine State Forest, Northern Unit.
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Green Lake CountyThe landscape of Green Lake County is dominated by apair of large and divergent lakes – Green Lake and LakePuckaway.
Green Lake is one of the state’s deepest lakes.Plunging 237 feet, the cool waters of this 7,300-acrelake harbor an excellent lake trout and walleye fishery.Lake Puckaway, on the other hand, is very shallow; just3 feet deep on average and only 5 feet at its deepest.At 5,000-acres, Puckaway is more lowland marsh thanlake, yet fishing is good and waterfowl are common.
The City of Green Lake has been a top tourism destination for morethan a century. The lake is the key attraction and the area’s resort offer-ings include water sports of every kind. One of those resorts, the HeidelHouse, operates The Escapade, a 60-foot, catamaran-style boat thattours the lake (800/444-2812, www.heidelhouse.com). The Green Lakearea is also known nationally for its three excellent golf courses –Lawsonia, Mascoutin and Tuscumbia. The lovingly restored ThrasherOpera House is another community gem.
To the north, Berlin charms visitors with its many Victorian homesand beautiful Nathan Strong Park. In western Green Lake County,Princeton’s downtown is a delightful mix of boutiques and artisanshops. The city’s Saturday morning flea markets (May thru October)are legendary. To the south, Markesan sparkles in the midst of lushfarmland. For a glimpse of local history, visit the town’s Grand RiverValley Museum (920/398-3554).
Grand River Marsh State Wildlife Area &Fountain Creek Wet Prairie State Natural Area
The Grand River Marsh SWA is a10,000-acre complex of marsh, grass-land, oak savanna, river and woodlots.The property is a magnet for migratingwaterfowl and is a favorite huntingspot in autumn. There are many trailsto hike and 3 boat landings for yourcanoe or kayak. The extensive marshesdraw in herons, Osprey and theDouble-crested Cormorant. TheFountain Creek Wet Prairie SNA is alarge, low-lying grassland in the basinof the marsh. Wet prairie is uncommonand characterized by prairie cord grass,blue-joint grass and mountain mint.The property’s bird list includes SandhillCrane, Northern Harrier, Sedge Wren,Horned Lark and Bobolink.Directions: From Montello, travelsouth 5 miles on Hwy 22, then east 2miles on Cty B to the property’sentrance. This large property has 22parking areas.
Phone: 920/361-3149Web: www.dnr.wi.gov Signature species: Henslow’sSparrow, Black-crowned Night-Heron & Blue-wing TealRare species: Red-necked andEared Grebe & American BlackDuck Gazetteer: Page 44, C-3Seasonality: Open all yearParking: Parking lotsNearest food & lodging:Montello or Marquette
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Green Lake Bike TrailsGreen Lake has developed a series ofon-road bike tours; quiet rides toneighboring small towns or a 27-mileloop around the city. You can pedal offto Princeton or Riponor Berlin and enjoyviews of the ruralcountryside as yougo. As you travel pastmeadows and rollinghills, look for smallsongbirds in thethickets, raptorsperched along treesin woodlots andTurkey Vultures over-head. Listen forWillow Flycatchers calling from theelderberry bushes, and for the chatterof Belted Kingfishers.Directions: Bike maps are available atthe Green Lake Chamber of Commerceor on their web site, above.
Puchyan Prairie State Natural AreaThis site is a mosaic of open wetlandcommunities including sedge meadow,marsh and low prairie in the floodplainof the Puchyan River. As you walktoward the river, the vegetation gradesinto a broad shallow marsh. A smallisland in the wetlandcontains black andbur oak trees sur-rounded by hazelnutshrubs. The bird listfor this 169-acreproperty is extensive.As you explore theproperty, look formink and groundsquirrels. The displayof wildflowers isdiverse with 130native species recorded.Directions: From Green Lake, go north1.3 miles on Hwy 49, then west 3 mileson Cty J, then north and west on 1.3miles on Cty CC, then north 0.4 mileson Puchyan Marsh Road to the south-west corner of the site.
Phone: 800/253-7354Web: www.visitgreenlake.com Signature species: SwampSparrow, Common Yellowthroat,Yellow-rumped Warbler & GrayCatbirdRare species: American WhitePelican, Eared Grebe &Canvasback DuckGazetteer: Page 45, B-5Parking: Parking providedNearest food & lodging: GreenLake, Princeton, Berlin, or Ripon
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Phone: 920/361-3149Web: www.dnr.wi.gov Signature species: AmericanBittern, Black Tern and NorthernHarrierRare species: Blanding’s turtle,King Rail & Henslow’s and LeConte’s Sparrow Gazetteer: Page 45, A-5Seasonality: Open all yearParking: Park along roadNearest food & lodging: Green Lake
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White River Marsh State Wildlife Area12,000 acres of lowland forest, oaksavanna, grasslands and sedge meadowawait you at this large property. TheWhite and Fox Rivers flow through thelandscape providing ample water tokeep the marshes and lowlands hydrat-ed. Two canoelaunch sites accessthe Fox River whereyou’ll find herons,bitterns and otherwading birds. WildTurkeys hunt forinsects and nuts inthe oak savannawhile Bobolinks,Savannah Sparrows and Sedge Wrensare found in the grasslands and sedgemeadows. Watch for Bald Eagles,Broad-winged Hawks and TurkeyVultures as they hunt over the mead-ows. Badgers, woodchucks, red fox andcoyotes are common here. Directions: From Princeton, travel 6miles north on Cty D.
Green Lake County
Phone: 920/361-3149Web: www.dnr.wi.govSignature species: Red-shouldered Hawk, AmericanKestrel, Eastern Kingbird &BobolinkRare Species: Cerulean WarblerBlanding’s turtleGazetteer: Page 44, A-4Seasonality: Open all yearParking: Parking lotsNearest food & lodging:Neshkoro, Berlin and Princeton
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Juneau CountyThe northern third of Juneau County, above Hwy. 21, isdominated by the 43,000-acre Necedah NationalWildlife Refuge (608-565-2551, www.fws.gov/mid-west/necedah). Whooping Cranes, Sandhill Cranes andTrumpeter Swans call Necedah home, as do gray wolvesand Karner blue butterflies.
The central third of Juneau County, between I-90/94and Hwy. 21, is farm field and lowland forest drained bythe Yellow and Lemonweir Rivers. To the east, BuckhornState Park occupies 7,000 acres on the shores of Castle
Rock Lake, an impoundment of the Wisconsin River (608/565-2789,www.wiparks.net). To the west, Mill Bluff State Park straddles theJuneau/Monroe County line (608/427-6692, www.wiparks.net). Thepark protects several of the glacial buttes that dot northern and cen-tral Juneau County.
The southern third of the county, below I-90/94, is riddled withhills and valleys, part of southwestern Wisconsin’s “driftless” areauntouched by the glaciers. It boasts three terrific railbed bike trails.The Elroy-Sparta State Trail passes through three century-old tun-nels on its 34-mile run from Elroy west to Sparta (888/606-2453,www.elroywi.com). The 400 State Trail cruises southeast along theBaraboo River 22 miles from Elroy to Reedsburg (800/844-3507,www.wiparks.net). Finally, the Omaha County Trail passes throughyet another tunnel on its 13-mile run north from Elroy Commons toCamp Douglas (608/847-9389, www.400statetrail.org).
Buckhorn State Park & Wildlife AreaBuckhorn is a 4,500-acre peninsula inthe Castle Rock Flowage, bordered onthe east by the Wisconsin River and onthe west by the mouth of the YellowRiver. The park harborsmany interesting habi-tats including rare sandblows and oak barrensthat attract flycatchersand sparrows. A two-mile canoe trail withinterpretive signage trav-erses wetlands whereyou can observe herons,rails and waterfowl. Fivemiles of hiking trails and a park natural-ist program are good for birders; you’llwant to explore the prairies and savan-nas for interesting birds to add to yourchecklist. The park is proud to offer anaccessible cabin and fishing/boat pier. Directions: From Necedah, travel south4 miles on Hwy 80 to Hwy 58, thensouth 3 miles on Hwy 58 to Cty G east,and follow signs to the park.
Phone: 608/565-2789Web: www.dnr.wi.govSignature species: Osprey, BaldEagle, Great Horned Owl &Belted KingfisherRare species: Red-headedWoodpecker, Northern Goshawk& Broad-winged HawkGazetteer: Page 42, A-3Parking: Parking lotsNearest food & lodging:NecedahFee: Park fees apply
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Cranberry Creek Mound Group StateNatural Area
This 675-acre site preserves one of thelargest and best-preserved mound com-plexes in the Upper Midwest. The sitecontains conical, linear, oval, and effigymounds built by Woodland Indians. Thesouthern cluster contains bear and pan-ther mounds and a 50-foot-long birdeffigy with a wingspan of 125 feet.After adding the bird effigy mound toyour checklist, look for warblers in thefloodplain forest along CranberryCreek. The old-growth northern dryforest and open pine forest are goodplaces to see Chipping Sparrows,Kingbirds and Eastern Bluebirds.Directions: From Necedah, go north10 miles on Cty G to its junction withCty F and 7th Street. Park in the south-west corner of the intersection andwalk west along 7th Street into thesite. The best mounds are located eastof Cranberry Creek, north of thedrainage ditch and south of 7th Street.
Elroy-Sparta State TrailWisconsin’s Elroy-Sparta State Trail wasthe first rail-to-trail conversion in thecountry. Running 34 miles betweenElroy and Sparta, the trail passesthrough wetlands, prairies, farmlandand unglaciatedareas. Birding isalways good alongthe trail. The threecentury-old railroadtunnels highlight thetrip. On its west end,a bridge over I-90 atSparta connects theElroy-Sparta to theLa Crosse River StateTrail. On its easternend, the Elroy-Sparta connects to the400 State Trail at the Elroy Commons.Juneau County’s Omaha Trail goesnorth from Elroy to Camp Douglas. Directions: Elroy Commons is locatedon Railroad Street in Elroy.
Juneau County
Phone: 608/339-3385Web: www.dnr.wi.govSignature species: GreatCrested Flycatcher & ChippingSparrowRare species: Red-shoulderedHawk & MerlinGazetteer: Page 51, C-8Seasonality: Open all yearParking: Parking along roadNearest food and lodging:Necedah
F
G
G
Cranberry CreekMound GroupState Natural
Area
7TH ST
12TH
AV
E
8TH ST
9TH ST
6TH ST
5TH ST
Cran
berr
yCr
eek
Phone: 608/462-2410Web: www.elroy-sparta-trail.comSignature species: Meadowlark,Bobolink & Eastern BluebirdRare species: Carolina Wren &Lark SparrowGazetteer: Page 42, C-1Seasonality: Open year roundParking: Parking lotsNearest food & lodging:Kendall or ElroyFee: Trail fees apply
71
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82
OO
Elroy
Elroy-SpartaState Trail
“400”State Trail
OmahaState Trail
Eastern Bluebird
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27 Mill Bluff State ParkThe tall sandstone bluffs rising from theflat plain amaze travelers passingthrough this park. These buttes wereislands in glacial Lake Wisconsin duringthe Ice Age, some 12,000 years ago.Hardwood and pine forests here drawmany species of warblers, woodpeckersand hawks. Turkey Vultures and BaldEagles ride the warm air currents risingfrom the plain – vultures likely nest inthe rock formations of the bluffs.Warbling Vireos, Least Flycatchers andWhite-breasted Nuthatches are foundin the wooded areas while CliffSwallows are seen in large numbersnear the bluffs where they nest andhunt for insects on the wing. This1,600-acre park offers 25 campsites, 2miles of hiking trails and a swimmingarea.Directions: The park is located on bothsides of I-90/94. Take the CampDouglas exit (#55) to Hwy 12/16 west 2miles to the park.
Phone: 608/427-6692Web: www.dnr.wi.govSignature species: NorthernRaven, Turkey Vulture & EasternBluebirdRare species: Yellow-belliedFlycatcher & Blue-headed VireoGazetteer: Page 42, A-1Seasonality: Open all yearParking: Parking lotsNearest food & lodging: CampDouglasFee: Park fees apply
1216
9094
W
C
H
Mill BluffState Park
CampDouglas
JUN
EAU
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Mill Bluff State Park.
RJ&
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28 Necedah National Wildlife RefugeThis 43,696-acre refuge is a magnet forbirds and mammals because of its sizeand the diversity of its landscapes. Itwas designated asan Important BirdArea and is home tomore than 200species of birdsincluding TrumpeterSwans, songbirds,herons, rails, nearlyevery species ofwaterfowl andmany kinds ofshorebirds. Thereare miles of roads todrive, trails to hike,and observationdecks to climb.Opportunities atNecedah include environmental educa-tion, fishing, hunting, interpretation,photography and wildlife observation. Directions: From Necedah, travel 3miles west on Hwy 21, turn north ontoHeadquarters Road and travel about 2miles to the refuge headquarters.
Phone: 608/565-2551Web:http://midwest.fws.gov/necedahSignature Species: WhoopingCrane, Eastern Meadowlark,Trumpeter Swan, Osprey &Tmber WolfRare Species: Timber Wolf,Karner Blue Butterfly, WhoopingCrane re-instatement areaGazetteer: Page 51, D-7Seasonality: Open all yearParking: Parking LotsNearest food and lodging:Necedah
21
NECEDAH
NATIONAL
WILDLIFE
REFUGE
HEADQUARTERS RD
22ND ST
7TH
AVE
GRAND DYKE RD
Rynearson Flowage
To Necedah
Necedah NationalWildlife RefugeHeadquarters
Red-headed Woodpecker
HER
BERT
LAN
GE
Juneau County
Whooping Cranes take flight.
WH
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2299
Marathon CountyMarathon is Wisconsin’s largest county covering 1,545square miles. It is largely agricultural land. MarathonCounty dairy farmers place second in the state for totalmilk production and for number of dairy herds.Interestingly, Marathon County leads the nation and theworld in the production of dry ginseng root. Most isexported to China.
The county is neatly bisected by the Wisconsin River.A workhorse for the paper industry, the river provides
water for mills in Wausau, Rothschild and Mosinee in MarathonCounty. Dams built for the paper industry on the river created the BigEau Pleine Reservoir and Lake DuBay, which today give the county itsrecreational flavor.
Wausau, the county seat, is the home of the Leigh YawkeyWoodson Art Museum, nationally renowned for it annual Birds inArt exhibit (715/845-7010, www.lywam.org). If you’re wonderingabout the county’s ginseng connection, visit Hsu’s GinsengEnterprises just north of town (800/826-1577,www.hsuginseng.com). Southwest of town, Rib Mountain StatePark covers 1,500 acres of Rib Mountain, the fourth highest point inthe state (715/842-2522, www.wiparks.net). The park offers spectac-ular views of the countryside from several overlooks, 30 family camp-sites, and some great skiing and snowboarding at one of the largestdownhill facilities in the state. In town, history buffs will enjoy theMarathon County Historical Museum housed in the beautifulVictorian home of former lumber baron Cyrus Yawkey (715/842-5750, www.marathoncountyhistory.com).
29 Big Eau Pleine County Park & Dells of theEau Claire River State Natural Area
This beautiful SNA occupies the south-ern part of the Dells of the Eau ClaireCounty Park and includes a segment ofthe Ice Age Trail. The park protects adramatic, narrow gorge where watercascades over rock outcroppings. Thegorge and surrounding uplands arewooded with sugar and mountainmaple, hemlock, and yellow birch.Canada yew is abundant and springwildflowers are spectacular. Manyspecies of warblers, sparrows, andthrushes as well as unusual hawks andowls live here including the NorthernSaw-whet Owl, Northern Goshawk,Lincoln’s sparrow and Ruffed Grouse.Bring your camera; this is one photo-opyou won’t want to miss. Directions: Take Highway 52 east fromWausau 15 miles to Highway Y. Gosouth on Y for 1.5 miles to park.
Phone: 715/785-9000Web: www.dnr.wi.govSignature Species: Broad-winged Hawk & BlackburnianWarblerRare species: Long-eared Owl,Scarlet Tanager & CedarWaxwingGazetteer: Page 77, D-6Parking: Parking areasNearest food & lodging: Wausau
Trai
l
Age
Ice
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Y
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Dells of theEau Claire RiverState NaturalArea
RIVER RD
EAU CLAIRE
To Wausau
Clai
re
Eau
River
3300
Bluegill Bay County ParkThe Wisconsin Society for Ornithologymentions this park as the best site inWausau to bird watch year round.Located along the Wisconsin River, ithas a nice mix of habitats includingupland woods, marsh, brushy edges,and a large pond withan outlet to the river.The property’s bird listboasts 175 specieswith spring and fallbeing the best sea-sons. A spring on theproperty flows year‘round making this isa good place for over-wintering species. Agood trail system provides access to this70-acre park. Some rare species includethe Red-necked Grebe, Yellow-crownedNight-Heron and Summer Tanager. Directions: From I-39 take exit 188(Hwy N). At the stoplights at the end ofthe ramp, turn east .5 mile to CloverlandLane, then east 1 mile to the T-intersec-tion. Turn left to enter the park.
30
Phone: 715/261-1550Web: www.co.marathon.wi.us/Signature Species: Wilson’sSnipe & Yellow WarblerRare species: Red-neckedGrebe, Yellow-crowned Night-Heron, Northern Goshawk,Northern Saw-whet Owl, PineGrosbeak & Connecticut Warbler.Gazetteer: Page 64, A-3Parking: Parking LotNearest food & lodging:Wausau
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39
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Bluegill BayCounty Park
Wausau
CLOVERLAND LN
LakeWausau
Yellow Warbler
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Marathon County
Big Eau Pleine Woods State Natural AreaThis 105-acre SNA is located in Big EauPleine County Park occupying a penin-sula jutting into 6,700-acre Big EauPleine Reservoir. It is the area’s bestexample of old growth mesic forest.Look for Bald Eagles and Red-shoul-dered Hawks. Red-necked and EaredGrebes can be seen along with a vari-ety of shorebirds and herons.Overhead, Hooded Warblers hunt forinsects in the sugar maple canopy. Inthe spring, White-throated Sparrowsscratch for seeds and insects amongthe blooming carpet of bloodroot, trilli-um, violets and hepatica. In the fall, thesugar maple, yellow birch, and red oakput on a colorful show. Directions: From Mosinee, go west 5.5miles on Hwy153, then south 6.3 mileson Eau Pleine Park Road to a parkingarea for the Giant Hardwoods NatureTrail west of road.
Phone: 715/785-9000Web site: www.dnr.wi.govSignature Species: CeruleanWarbler & Acadian FlycatcherRare species: American WhitePelican, Winter Wren & SolitarySandpiperGazetteer: Page 64, B-2Parking: Parking lotsNearest food & lodging:Mosinee
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Big Eau Pleine WoodsState Natural Area
SUGAR BUSH RD
EAU PLEINE PARK RD
EAU
PLE
INE
PA
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RD
HIL
LTO
P R
D
To Mosinee
Big Eau Pleine Reservoir
3311
George W. Mead State Wildlife AreaThis large and diverse property is foundin parts of Marathon, Wood andPortage Counties. At 30,000 acres, itboasts a bird list of 248 species. Mostspecies of mammals and many speciesof reptiles and amphibians found inWisconsin live here. The Little EauPleine River flows through the property.There are flowages, small lakes, marsh-es, grasslands, tamarack bog andwoodland areasto explore.Good roads goto all parts ofthe propertyand hiking trailsare numerous.Bring yourcanoe or kayakto explore thewater resources.The new Stanton W. Mead Education &Visitor Center demonstrates state-of-the-art green building technology. Directions: Exit I-39 at Hwy 34 southand west 4.5 miles to Cty C, then west8 miles to Cty S, then south 2.5 milesto the visitor center.
Phone: 715/457-6771Web: meadwildlife.org,www.dnr.wi.gov Signature Species: Bald Eagle,Sandhill Crane, Ruffed Grouse &White Pelican Rare species: Greater PrairieChicken, Sharp-tail Grouse &Loggerhead ShrikeGazetteer: Page 64, C-2Parking: Parking lotsClosest food & lodging:Wausau, Stevens Point &Marshfield
C
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George W. MeadState WildlifeArea
BigEau Pleine Reservoir
Greater Prairie Chicken
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George W. Mead State Wildlife Area.
3322
Marathon County
Leigh Yawkey Woodson Art MuseumOne simple idea – birds – filteredthrough the minds and hands of morethan 110 artists creates an annual bird-themed exhibition that is alwaysabsorbing, thought provoking, andimaginative. The Birds in Art exhibitionopens the weekend after Labor Dayand remains open for 9-10 weeks. Thissingle event attracts thousands of visi-tors to this beautiful art museum locat-ed in the eastern edge of the AndrewWarren Historic District in Wausau. Themuseum’s permanent collection con-tains many beautiful paintings, carvingsand sculptures of birds that can be seenyear-round, so a visit anytime willcharm birders.Directions: From I-39 take exit 193(Bridge Street) east to 5th Street; turnright on 5th to Franklin; turn left onFranklin to 12th Street.
Phone: 715/845-7010Web: www.lywam.orgSignature Event: Birds In ArtGazetteer: Page 64, A-3Parking: Parking LotNearest food & lodging:Wausau
5139
N
51BUS
51BUS
Leigh YawkeyWoodson
Art Museum
Wausau
FRANKLIN ST
WAUSAU AVE
BRIDGE ST
THOMAS ST
STEWART AVE
17TH
AV
E
3RD
AV
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6TH
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1ST
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Wisconsin
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Nine-Mile County ForestThis 5,000-acre county forest offersspectacular views of the area. Severalof the trails were designed for cross-country skiing and can be challenging.They do, however, access the site andyou will be rewarded with some niceadditions to yourbird list. The olderforest areas attractCerulean andHooded Warblers,hawks and fly-catchers. NorthernSaw-whet, Barred,Screech andGreat-hornedOwls have all beenseen here. TurkeyVultures and Bald Eagles soar overhead.Trails are well marked and benches pro-vide a place to stop, relax and enjoy theview.Directions: Exit I-39 at Cty N 3.5 mileswest to Red Bud Road 1.25 miles southto a trailhead parking area on the westside of the road.
Phone: 715/261-1550Web: www.co.marathon.wi.us/ Signature species: Black-billedCuckoo, Hermit Thrush &Acadian Flycatcher Rare species: Red-shoulderedHawk, Yellow-billed Cuckoo,Olive-sided Flycatcher, Pine andEvening Grosbeaks, CommonRedpoll & both crossbills.Gazetteer: Page 64, A-3Parking: Parking areaNearest food & lodging:WausauFee: Ski pass required in winter
KK
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39
Nine MileCounty Forest
Wiscon
sin
Riv
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BU
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Rib Mountain State Park
Common Redpoll
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Rib Mountain State ParkRib Mountain is a billion-year-old hillthat is the capstone of this beautifulstate park. A 60-foot observation toweratop the hill offers spectacular views ofthe Rib River and val-ley. From springthrough fall, this parkis a great place towatch large numbersof Turkey Vultures,hawks and BaldEagles glide on thethermals above. Inthe spring, parkwoodlands attractlarge numbers of migrating songbirds,especially warblers. In the summer, itholds Winter Wrens, Yellow-belliedFlycatcher and Tufted Titmice. In thefall, it offers one of the best spots towatch migrating hawks. The park offers9 miles of hiking trails, 30 campsitesand terrific skiing in the winter. Directions: Exit I-39 at Cty N .1 mile tothe park entrance.
Phone: 715/ 842-2522Web: wiparks.net Signature species: Bald Eagle,Broad-winged Hawk & OspreyRare species: Golden Eagle Gazetteer: Page 64, A-3Parking: Parking lotsNearest food & lodging:WausauFee: Park fees apply
N
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Rib MountainState Park
Wausau
Lake Wausau
35
Kentucky Warbler
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Rib Mountain State Park.
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3344
Marquette CountyMarquette County boasts a single stoplight in the entirecounty – 455 square miles and very little traffic.
The county is named for Father Jacques Marquette,the French explorer who paddled down the Fox Riverinto the area in 1673. The European settlers who fol-lowed him dammed the river at Montello creatingBuffalo Lake, an important link in the Fox-Wisconsinwaterway. Today, the lake is a ten-mile crescent of fish-ing and boating; the recreational heart of the county.
Montello, the county seat, is a pleasant small town once famousfor its granite quarry. The extraordinarily hard, red granite wasshipped nationwide and was used in the tombs of both Ulysses Grantand Robert E. Lee. You can still see the quarry from the city’s QuarryPark on Main Street. The park includes three small waterfalls thatonce powered the quarry’s drills and saws.
In southern Marquette County near Packwaukee, you can make areservation to tour Bison Ridge Ranch (608-589-5500, www.bison-ridgeranch.com). Nearly 300 bison roam the ranch. Ninety-minutetours include a short video, a wagon ride to see the buffalo, and achance to check out the gift shop.
Another animal attraction you won’t want to miss is the M HRanch near Westfield in western Marquette County (608-296-2171,www.mhranch.com). They breed miniature horses that stand less than34 inches tall. Tours include a short movie about the ranch’s history, avisit to the carriage museum, the training facility, the maternity barn,and a terrific photo-op, so bring your camera.
Comstock Bog Meadow State Natural AreaThis property lies within a large basin inthe glaciated Central Plain. It has aquaking bog mat of sedges and sphag-num moss. The alkaline conditions ofthe water support the growth ofunusual plants such as pitcher plantand bog-rosemary. The propertychanges to a sedge meadow that istreeless and open except for a smallarea of tamarack, poison sumac, andbog birch. Sandhill Cranes are here bythe hundreds in the fall where they restfor migration. Nesting birds around themarsh and sedge meadows includewading birds and some hard-to-findgrassland species. Directions: From Montello, go north4.8 miles on Hwy 22, then east on 1mile on Cty J, then north and east 1mile on Edgewood Road to a parkingarea north of the road.
Phone: 920/787- 4686Web: www.dnr.wi.govSignature species: SandhillCrane, Sora & Virginia Rail,Bobolink, Leconte’s & Henslow’sSparrowRare species: Yellow Rail & Blue-headed VireoGazetteer: Page 44, A-2Parking: Parking lotNearest food & lodging:Montello
J
N
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22
ComstockBogMeadow
SNA
Comstock Lake
EDGEW
OOD
RD
EAGLE RD
EMBER AVE
18TH
A
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36
3355
Germania Marsh State Wildlife AreaThis 2,400-acre site is a mix of oak for-est, wetlands, sedge meadows and oldfields. The Mecan River flows throughthe property hydrating the wetlandsand attracting flocks of waterfowl inthe spring and fall. In the summer, themeadows support Karner BlueButterflies whilethe marshes holdBlanding’s turtles.Look for terns asthey dive for smallminnows orinsects. In thespring, listen forthe AmericanWoodcock in theaspen thickets atdusk, and hear thedrumming of the Ruffed Grouse in thewoods. The sky overhead can be filledwith migrating Common Night Hawksin late August. Look for Red-tail Hawksand Turkey Vultures soaring overhead,and low-flying Northern Harriers overthe meadows.Directions: Located 7 miles north ofMontello via Hwy 22.
Phone: 920/361-3149Web: www.dnr.wi.gov Signature Species: Bald Eagle& OspreyRare Species: Common, Black &Forester’s TernsGazetteer: Page 44, A-2Parking: Parking lotsNearest food & lodging:Montello and Westfield
N
N
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22 GermaniaMarshSWA
Comstock Lake
EDGEW
OOD
RD
EAGLE RD EAGLE RD
EAGLE RD
18TH
A
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37
Forester’s Tern
MIK
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CD
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Wood Duck.
RIC
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RDA
RMST
RON
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3366
Muir Park State Natural AreaMuir Park is the boyhood home of con-servationist John Muir, founder of theSierra Club and the father of theNational Park System. This 150-acreproperty is within John Muir MemorialCounty Park. It con-sists of upland andwetland communitiessurrounding 30-acreEnnis Lake. Smallfens along the shore-line and an outletstream to the FoxRiver contain manyunusual plants,including noddinglady’s-tresses orchid. The restoredprairie is a magnet for grassland birdssuch as Bobolinks, while the oak savan-nas are rich in warblers and othermigrating songbirds. A trail takes youaround the lake and wooden bridgescarry you over wet areas and streams.
Directions: From Montello, go south 7.6 miles on Cty F to the parkentrance east of the road.
Phone: 920/787-4686Web: www.dnr.wi.gov Signature species: PileatedWoodpecker, Yellow-belliedFlycatcher & Eastern KingbirdRare species: Red-headedWoodpecker, Acadian Flycatcher,Bob-white QuailGazetteer: Page 44, C-1Parking: Parking lotNearest food & lodging:Endeavor or Montello
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O
John MuirCounty Park
Fox River
10TH RD
13TH
RD
13TH
RD
GILLETTE DR
GEM AVE
To M
onte
llo
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Mecan River State Fishery & Wildlife AreaThe beautiful Mecan River flowsthrough this 740-acre property definingthe landscape. The forested uplandsoffer nesting sites for warblers, wood-peckers andRuffed Grouse.An occasionalBob-white Quailcan be heard call-ing in the spring-time. The marsh-lands are goodplaces to look forturkeys and sedgewrens. The mead-ows shelter manyspecies of grassland birds. The propertyis just north of the Mecan RiverFisheries Area, so bring your fly rod andyour canoe. In the early evening, lookfor red fox, coyotes, badgers, mink andfox squirrels along the roads.Directions: Located 11 miles north ofMontello on Hwy 22.
Phone: 920-361-3149Web: www.dnr.wi.gov Signature Species: Wild Turkey,Sandhill Crane & Ruffed GrouseRare Species: LoggerheadShrike, Bob-white Quail &Northern Saw-whet OwlGazetteer: Page 44, A-2Parking: Parking lotsNearest food & lodging:Westfield and Montello
E
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Mecan RiverSWA
Crytal Lake
Mecan River
DOVER AVE
14TH
AV
E
DIXIE AVE
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Ruffed Grouse
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Marquette County
Yellow-bellied Flycatcher
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Observatory Hill State Natural AreaObservatory Hill is the highest point inMarquette County, rising 300 feetabove the countryside. It was a favoritechildhood haunt of naturalist John Muirwho lived nearby. A trail leads to thetop where you canimmerse yourself in thebeauty of this CentralWisconsin landscape.The woods that coverthe property are beingrestored to oak savan-na. It contains remnantprairie plants. The mixof oaks, basswoodsand cedar trees attractmany species of song-birds including ScarletTanagers, Cedar Waxwings, Red-eyedvireos, and Golden-crowned Kinglets. Directions: From Montello, go south4.8 miles on Cty F, then east 0.5 mileon 14th Road, then south 1.4 miles on13th Road, then east 0.6 mile onGillette Drive to a parking area north ofthe road. A footpath to the summitbegins in the northwest corner of theold field.
Phone: 920/787-4686Web: www.dnr.wi.gov Signature species: TurkeyVulture, Bald Eagle & EasternPhoebeRare species: LoggerheadShrike, Warbling Vireo & Red-headed WoodpeckerGazetteer: Page 44, C-1Parking: Parking lotNearest food & lodging:Endeavor or Montello
F
F
22
Observatory HillSNA
13TH
RD
13TH
RD
GILLETTE DR
GILLETTE AVE
14TH RD
GEM AVE
GALE AVE
GEM RD
40
Turkey Vulture
RON
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Red-winged Blackbird.
JEFF
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3388
Menominee CountyWisconsin’s Menominee County is actually theMenominee Indian Reservation. The reservationtotals 234,000 acres and is home to about 4,000
tribal members. At one time, the Menominee occupiedmost of central Wisconsin – more than 10 million acres.The Menominee have lived here for more than 10,000years and have a proud history. They are an Algonquinspeaking tribe; Menominee or “O-Maeq-No-Min-Ni-Wuk” means People of the Wild Rice. They are divided
among five ancestral clans: Bear, Eagle, Wolf, Moose and Crane. The Menominee are national lead-
ers in sustainable forestry practices.Ninety-five percent of the reservation isforested. It holds the finest old standsof hardwood, pine and hemlock in theGreat Lakes basin. It is said that youcan see the outline of MenomineeCounty from space – the trees are thatmuch taller than the surrounding land-scape. The combination of hardwoodsand evergreens makes for spectacularfall colors.
Twenty-four miles of the Wolf River, a federally designated wildriver, flows through the reservation. Menominee County is a particu-larly beautiful area – a remnant of pre-European Wisconsin – with 128lakes and the Evergreen, Oconto, Red and Wolf Rivers found within itsborders. There are a dozen natural and cultural tourist attractionslocated on the reservation. They include several beautiful waterfalls,Spirit Rock, the Menominee Logging Museum, the College of theMenominee Nation, and Menominee Casino & Bingo. There are alsocultural events that the public is invited to attend; consult theMenominee web site for a schedule.
Phone: 715/799-5100 or715/799-4654Web: www.menominee-nsn.gov Signature species: CommonRaven, Great Blue Heron & BaldEagleRare species: Black Tern,Golden-winged Warbler,Northern Parula & Winter WrenGazetteer: Page 66, A-4 and page 78, D-1-4Seasonality: Open all year
41
Bald Eagle.
ALA
NO
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3399
Monroe CountyMonroe County bills itself as “Bikes and Berries,” but it’smuch more than that. The county is nearly square,bisected east-to-west by Interstate-90.
In the northeast, the area around Warrens is“Cranberry County.” Cranberries are the only fruit nativeto Wisconsin. So, if God gives you cranberries, you makecranberry juice... and Wisconsin now leads the nation inthe production of the tart, red berries for juice. You canlearn more about all things cranberry at the WisconsinCranberry Discovery Center in Warrens (608/378-
4878, www.discovercranberries.com).Northwestern Monroe County is dominated by the Fort McCoy
Military Reservation (608/388-2407, www.mccoy.army.mil). FortMcCoy is one of the nation’s leading training centers for ArmyNational Guard units. The 60,000-acre facility includes a pair of excel-lent recreation areas open to the public, as well as a self-guided driv-ing tour.
The southern half of the county is dominated by the Elroy-SpartaState Trail, a 32-mile railbed trail whose western trailhead is inSparta (800/354-2453, www.elroy-sparta-trail.com). Sparta is alsohome to the Deke Slayton Memorial Space & Bike Museum(888/200-5302, www.dekeslayton.com) and the Little Falls Railroad& Doll Museum (608/272-3266, www.raildoll.org). Eleven milesnorth of Sparta the Paul & Matilda Wegner Grotto is a fanciful out-door park that includes a folk art “Glass Church” created from bits ofcolored glass and concrete (608/269-8680,www.portalwisconsin.org/wegnergrotto.cfm).
Big Creek State Fishery AreaBig Creek meanders through this1,316-acre property managed for troutfishing, hunting, hiking and wildlifeviewing. The forests and lowland brushareas attract a variety of birds. Look forYellow-bellied Flycatchers, BrownThrashers and Gray Catbirds in theshrubs along the creek with EasternBluebirds and Savannah Sparrows inthe meadows. Forested sections holdYellow-bellied Sapsuckers, Whip-poor-wills, Nashville and Black-and-whiteWarblers. Blaze your own trail throughthis area, keeping an eye open forbadgers and fox in the meadows, andmink along the creek. For anglers, BigCreek produces some nice trout. Directions: From Sparta, travel 9 milesnorth on Hwys 27/71 to Cataract. Theproperty lies to the northwest.
Phone: 608/785-9000Web: www.dnr.wi.govSignature Species: Bald Eagle,Ruffed Grouse & Wild TurkeyRare Species: Hooded Warbler,Clay-colored Sparrow & Lincoln’sSparrowGazetteer: Page 50, D-1Seasonality: Open all yearParking: Parking lotNearest food & lodging: Sparta
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ELL RD
RD
WO
OD
Cataract
Big
Creek
To S
par
ta
42
4400
Fort McCoy (Military Reservation) Barrens State Natural Area
While this property is a heavily usedmilitary base, there are many rarespecies of plants and animals foundhere. This SNA protects an oak barrensof exceptional quality and diversity.Much of the area is open, sandy prairiewith groves and scattered trees ofblack, Hill’s, bur, and white oaks.Several large sand blows are habitat forprairie fame-flower and prairie larkspur.Avian life is equally diverse and includesUpland Sandpipers and GrasshopperSparrows.Direction: Visitors must call in advanceto access the SNA that is located withinthe Fort McCoy Military Reservation.From Sparta, go east on 8 miles onHwy 21,then south 1.2 miles on AirfieldRange Road to 18th Lane and parkalong the road. The site lies south of18th Lane. Visitors must display in thepassenger-side windshield a 5 x 8 cardthat lists name, purpose of visit, andemergency contact number.
Phone: 608/388-5766 or 5374 –visitors must call in advance foraccess permissionWeb: www.dnr.wi.gov Signature species: EasternBluebird, Sedge Wren, LarkSparrow, Turkey Vulture & KarnerBlue ButterflyRare Species: Red-headedWoodpecker, Vesper andHenslow’s Sparrows, Bobolinkand Western MeadowlarkGazetteer: Page 41, A-5Seasonality: Open all yearParking: Parking lotsNearest food & water: Sparta
1616
21
21
71
71
A
IQ
90
90
Fort McCoyBarrens SNA
Sparta
FORT
MCCOY
MILITARY
RESERVATION
43
La Crosse River State Fishery AreaThis 457-acre property is northeast ofthe La Crosse River Trail Prairie StateNatural area and is dominated by theLa Crosse River. The landscape is idealfor Wild Turkeys,badgers, mink andred fox. Shrubbyareas along thestream attract BrownThrashers, Yellow andCommonYellowthroat Warblerswhile the forests har-bor a variety ofwoodpeckers, warblers and the HermitThrush. Blue-winged, Golden-wingedand Chestnut-sided Warblers nest onthis property along with Yellow-rumpedWarblers. If you like to fish for trout, orjust relax along the river, this property isa great place to visit. Directions: From Sparta, go 2 milesnortheast on Hwy 21 to Angelo, then 2miles north on Cty I.
Phone: 608/785-9000Web: www.dnr.wi.gov Signature species: BeltedKingfisher, Eastern Wood Pewee,Eastern Kingbird, NorthernFlicker, Long-billed Marsh &Sedge WrenRare species: PileatedWoodpecker, Acadian Flycatcher& Blue-gray GnatcatcherGazetteer: Page 41, A-4Seasonality: Open all yearParking: Parking lotNearest food & lodging: Sparta
1616
21
21
71
71
A
IQ
90
90
LaCrosse RiverState Fishery
Area
Sparta
Angelo
FORT
MCCOY
MILITARY
RESERVATION
44
Chestnut-sided Warbler
MIK
EM
CD
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Monroe County
4411
La Crosse River Trail Prairie State Natural Area
This property is located along the LaCrosse River State trail east and west ofRockland. It features two stretches ofdry to dry-mesic sand prairie in a for-mer railroad right-of-way that total 56acres. These long, lin-ear remnants lie on asandy terrace of theLa Crosse River andare indicative of theonce vast prairie andsavanna complex thatcovered this part ofthe state. Prairiemeadows are inbloom from early spring to the last hardfrost of October, attracting numerousspecies of butterflies and many speciesof grassland birds. This segment of thetrail is drier than the La Crosse segmentto the west, but you will want to walkor ride your bike and enjoy the beauti-ful landscape. Directions: From the trailhead inSparta, bike or hike west to reach thisSNA in Monroe and La CrosseCounties.
Phone: 608/785-9000Web: www.dnr.wi.govSignature species: Black &Yellow-billed Cuckoo, ChimneySwift, Least Flycatcher & EasternKingbirdRare species: Red-headedWoodpecker, Acadian Flycatcher& Purple MartinGazetteer: Page 41, A-4Seasonality: Open all yearParking: Parking lotsNearest food & lodging: SpartaFees: Bike trail fee
16
27
J
U
90
LaCrosse RiverTrail Prairie SNA Sparta
Rockland
MO
NR
OE
CO
.
LA C
RO
SSE
CO
.
La Crosse River State TrailLa CrosseRiver
45
Acadian Flycather
MIK
EM
CD
OW
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Sandhill Cranes.
GEN
EST
AV
ER
4422
46 Meadow Valley State Wildlife AreaThis 58,000-acre site features eightflowages, 1,000 acres of open water, awaterfowl refuge, 6 miles of public useroads, 9 primitive campground sitesand 25 miles of snowmobile trails avail-able for hiking. It is managed for theoptimum production offorest and wetlandwildlife, and is a popu-lar place to viewwildlife, hunt and fish.Moist soil managementallows two or threeimpounded waterdrawdowns each year,providing excellenthabitat for shorebirds.This large propertyextends into Juneau County to the east.Interesting and elusive mammals hereinclude gray fox and snowshoe hares. Directions: From Tomah, travel east 4.5miles on Hwy 21 to Hwy 173. Go northfour miles to the heart of the property.Explore the many roads to access thislarge property.
Phone: 715/884-2437Web: www.dnr.wi.govSignature species: SandhillCrane, Ruffed Grouse, BarredOwl, Bank and Cliff Swallow &Whip-poor-will.Rare species: Whooping Crane,American Egret, TrumpeterSwans, Yellow-billed Cuckoo &Karner Blue ButterflyGazetteer: Page 51, D-5Seasonality: Open all yearParking: Parking lotsNearest food & lodging:Necedah
2121
173
N
G
Meadow ValleySWA
ValleyJunction
Wyeville
MEADOW
VALLEY STATE
CONSERVATION AREA
Lemonweir
River
CO
PPER R
D
MIK
EM
CD
OW
ELL
Barred Owl
Monroe County
Hummingbird Moth.
CA
ROL
KN
ABE
4433
47
Outagamie CountyOutagamie County is the home of the Fox Cities, anurban area of eighteen communities that boomed inthe early 20th century producing paper products.Today, the area is home to a large regional mall andmany galleries, antique and specialty shops. It billsitself as “Wisconsin’s Shopping Place.”
Appleton is the largest of the Fox Cities. It was thechildhood home of the great Harry Houdini. TheHoudini legend, complete with many of his fabledescape props, is showcased at the Outagamie
Museum (920/735-9370, www.foxvalleyhistory.org). Appleton was alsothe site of the first home in the world lit by a central hydroelectric plant.The Hearthstone Historic House Museum preserves local history andthat first hydro-house (920/730-8204, www.hearthstonemuseum.org).
The Fox River Mall, on Appleton’s northwest side, is the largest inWisconsin with 180 stores (920/739-4100, www.foxrivermall.com). Ifyou brought the kids, you might consider a Wisconsin TimberRattlers baseball game (920/733-4152, www.timberrattlers.com) or avisit to the Fox Cities Children’s Museum (920/734-3226, www.kid-museum.org).
Located just east of Appleton, Kaukauna is another Fox Cities com-munity with a pair of fine attractions. The 1000 IslandsEnvironmental Center is a 300-acre refuge along the Fox River with anature center, 300 specimens of birds and animals, and miles of naturetrails (920/766-4733, www.1000islandsenvironmentalcenter.com).Nearby, the Grignon Mansion has been restored to its 1837-62 bril-liance (920/735-9370, www.foxvalleyhistory.org).
Bubolz Nature PreserveThis 758-acre nature preserve has 8miles of wildlife viewing trails thataccess fields and a large wetland area,all of which was once a cedar swamp.The earth shelterednature center offersguided tours, work-shops, classes and pro-grams hosted by staffnaturalists. Watch forBobolinks andMeadowlarks as youhike the grassy fields inthe summer. In the fall,look for low-flyingNorthern Harriers hunt-ing for small mammals. An eveningwalk through the preserve may producewhite-tailed deer or a red fox. Directions: From Appleton go north1.5 miles on Hwy 47 to Cty JJ, thenwest 1.5 miles to Cty A, then southand watch for the property sign.
Phone: 920/984-3700Web: www.bubolzpreserve.orgSignature Species: MonarchButterfly & Yellow-belliedSapsuckerRare Species: PileatedWoodpecker, Scarlet Tanager &MerlinGazetteer: Page 55, 5-BSeasonality: Year round - naturecenter closed MondaysParking: Parking LotNearest Food & Lodging:Appleton
47
15
JJ
A
41
41
BubolzNature
Preserve
Appleton
GIL
LETT
RD
MIK
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CD
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Yellow-bellied Sapsucker
4444
Outagamie County
Outagamie County State Wildlife AreaThis 1,000-acre property allows moreaccess to the many-faceted Wolf River.Trails lead through forest, marsh andgrasslands along the river where youcan observe waterfowl during migra-tions. Or, a hike into the swamps canproduce a variety of herons and evenBlack Terns. Theterns can be heardcalling continuallyas they swoop andbob above thewater huntinginsects. Yellow-headed Blackbirdscall from their cat-tail stands as well.Listen for Long-billed Marsh Wrensin the marshes andSedge Wrens in the grassy uplands.Directions: From Shiocton, travel 3.5miles north on Hwy 187 to the property.
Phone: 715/524-2183Web: www.dnr.wi.govSignature Species: RuffedGrouse, Blue-gray Gnatcatcherand Cerulean WarblerRare Species: Osprey and BlackTernsGazetteer: Page 54, A-4Seasonality: Open all yearParking: Parking lotsNearest Food & Lodging:Shiocton
54
76
54
187
PM
M
OutagamieCountyWildlife Area
Shiocton
Wol
f
ShioctonR
iver
River
Blue-gray Gnatcatcher
MIK
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CD
OW
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48
49
Mack State Wildlife Area & DOT Mitigation Site
This 1,350-acre property is actually twosites; one north and one south of Hwy54. The property contains marsh,aspen, swamp, hardwood forests, low-land brush and grasslands. An aban-doned railroad bed that is slated tobecome a state trail for hiking and bik-ing bisects the southern section of theproperty. The area is fairly flat as it wasonce a glacial lakebed. The 480-acremitigation site located on Van PattenDrive is north of Hwy 54. Visit theaccessible viewing platform and educa-tional kiosk found there to get a bird’s-eye view of a wetland and wetlandbirds.Directions: From Shiocton, travel easton Hwy 54 two miles to Van Patten Rd,then north .5 mile to the parking areaand viewing platform. Or, continue eastof Hwy 54 another .5 mile to HermanRd to access the Mack SWA south ofthe highway. Both areas are markedwith signs.
Phone: 715/524-2183Web site: www.dnr.wi.govSignature Species: Black Tern,Tundra Swan, Yellow-headedBlackbird & Sora RailRare Species: Great EgretGazetteer: Page 54, A-4Seasonality: Open all yearParking: Parking lotsNearest Food & Lodging: NewLondon
54
187
P
BIS
HC
OFF
RD
HER
MA
N R
D
PULS
RD
Mack StateWildlife Area
Shiocton
Wol
f
ShioctonR
iver
River
4455
Wolf River Bottoms State Wildlife AreaThe Wolf River dominates this 2,600-acre property supplying ample water inthe spring to fill the wetlands and tem-porarily flood thelands surroundingthe property. All ofthis water draws inimpressive numbersof ducks, geese,swans and shore-birds in April andMay. As spring givesway to summer, themeadows andwoods teem withwarblers and manyspecies of songbirds, while broods ofducks begin to show themselves in themarshes. In the fall, bird migrations canbe exciting as well. The area is remoteand well worth repeated visits.Directions: From Shiocton, go north 2miles on Hwy 76 to Cty M, then north2 more miles to the property.
Phone: 715/524-2183Web: www.dnr.wi.govSignature Species: SandhillCranes, Ruffed Grouse &American WoodcockRare Species: Loggerhead Shrike& Prothonotary WarblerGazetteer: Page 66, D-3Seasonality: Open all yearParking: Parking lotsNearest Food & Lodging:Shiocton or Hortonville
76
187
P
MWolf River
Bottoms SWA
Wol
f
River
Prothonotary Warbler
MIK
EM
CD
OW
ELL
50
Sandhill Cranes.
GEN
EST
AV
ER
4466
Portage CountyPortage County has an outstanding string of countyparks that offer more than 100 family campsites andappeal to a variety of user groups: Becker Lake is a hitwith birders, Lake Helen and Sunset Lake have popularswimming beaches, Standing Rocks offers great bikingand cross-country skiing trails, as well as downhill ski-ing, and the Dewey Shooting Range is on-target withhunters.
Stevens Point, the county seat, lies in the heart ofthe Wisconsin River Valley. A riverside city, it blends
industry, academia, recreation and natural beauty. The University ofWisconsin-Stevens Point campus includes the Schmeeckle Reserve,275 acres of solitude and a great place for walking, jogging, biking,fishing and wildlife watching (800/236-4636,www.uwsp.edu/cnr/schmeeckle). The reserve’s nature center housesexhibits and dioramas as well as the Wisconsin Conservation Hall ofFame. The reserve is a trailhead for the Green Circle State Trail, a30.5-mile hiking and biking trail around the city (800/236-4636,www.stevenspointarea.com).
Downtown, more than sixty buildings comprise the Mathias MitchellPublic Square-Main Street Historic District, a delightful walking tour. Thecity is the home of Sentry Insurance, owner of the SentryWorldSports Center, a world-class golf course and racquet-sports facilityopen to the public (866/479-6753, www.sentryworld.com). Founded in1857, the Stevens Point Brewery is a must-stop for a tour and tast-ing (800/369-4911, www.pointbeer.com).
Buena Vista GrasslandsThis 11,300-acre site is a mix of state-owned and leased lands scattered over88 square miles. It is home to thelargest concentration of Greater PrairieChickens in Wisconsin. Buena Vista rep-resents one of the most extensivegrasslands east of the Mississippi River.The area has been developed by theDNR, the Dane County ConservationLeague and the Society ofTympanuchus cupido pinnatus. In theprocess of preserving the land forPrairie Chickens, habitat has beendeveloped for a broad array of rare anduncommon birds. Also found within theproject are wetlands and nestingNorthern Harriers, Sandhill Cranes,Willow Flycatchers and BrownThrashers.Directions: From Bancroft, follow CtyW north and then west 7.7 miles to thekiosk/historical marker at the intersec-tion of Cty W & Cty F.
Phone: 608/339-3385Web: www.dnr.wi.gov Signature species: GreaterPrairie ChickenRare species: Cattle Egret,Golden Eagle, Snowy and Short-eared Owl, Acadian Flycatcher,Henslow’s Sparrow & BobolinkGazetteer: Page 52, B-4Seasonality: Open all yearParking: Parking along roads &parking lots – some roadsimpassable in winterClosest food & lodging:Stevens Point or Wisconsin Rapids
F
W
WW
Buena VistaGrasslands
MILL AVE
QUARRY RD
GRIFFITH AVE
DEER RD
10TH
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130T
H S
T
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To B
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51
4477
Dewey Marsh State Natural AreaLocated within the 5,677-acre DeweyMarsh State Wildlife Area, this 926-acreState Natural Area (SNA) contains anexpansive conifer swamp, northernsedge meadow and bog embeddedwith small islands forested with aspen,birch, red maple, andwhite pine. Thesedge meadow formsthe headwaters ofHay Meadow Creek.There are areas ofconifer swamp con-taining tamarack andblack spruce. Duringfall migrations, Short-eared Owls can be seen in small flocks.In the winter, look for PileatedWoodpeckers as they fly from woodlotto woodlot. Red Crossbills and White-winged Crossbills can be found in theconifer swamps. All summer long, awide array of songbirds and grasslandspecies nest in this unique site.Directions: Located 6 miles north ofStevens Point via Cty X, Reserve Dr, orWillow Springs Dr.
Phone: 715/421-7800Web: www.dnr.wi.govSignature species: NorthernHarrier, Ruffed Grouse,Grasshopper, Vesper & SavannahSparrowRare species: Sharp-tailedGrouse & Greater Prairie ChickenGazetteer: Page 64, C- 4Seasonality: Open year round –some roads impassable in winterParking: Park along the road Nearest food & lodging:Stevens Point
X
39
51
DeweyMarsh
SNA
DEWEY DR
MAPLE DR
MA
PLE
DR
RES
ERV
E D
R
WIL
LOW
SPR
ING
S D
R
HA
YM
EAD
OW
DR
52
Savannah Sparrow
Canada Geese on McDill Pond, Stevens Point.
MIK
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CD
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STEV
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POIN
TA
REA
CV
B
4488
Richard A. Hemp State Fishery AreaThis 1,375-acre site is one of the bestwarbler habitats in Wisconsin. Of the30 species seen on the property, a totalof eighteen have been documented asbreeders. The combination of forested,river and wetland habitats makes this aspecial place. This site is consideredsemi-wilderness and is a great propertyto visit. The maple forests and riverareas produce an exceptional springwildflower display. Skunk cabbagebloom first (late winter) followed bymarsh marigolds, may apples and trilli-um. The spring frog chorus can bedeafening, as huge numbers of springpeepers, chorus, green and gray-treefrogs sing from spring through summer.Directions: Located 3 miles north ofNelsonville. Access the property from CtyZZ and Cty Z. From 3536 Cty ZZ, followthe gravel road just north of the mailbox.75 mile to the parking lot of theNorthern Unit; trails run west and north.Or, travel Grayson Rd. to River Rd. andturn north 1 mile to a parking lot.
Phone: 715/421-7800Web: www.dnr.wi.govSignature species: Blue-winged,Golden-winged & HoodedWarblers, Willow & AlderFlycatchers, Eastern KingbirdRare species: Karner BlueButterfly, Golden Eagle, CommonRaven & Louisiana WaterthrushGazetteer: Page 65, D-6Seasonality: Open all yearParking: Parking areasNearest food & lodging:Amherst Junction or StevensPoint
A
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I
ZZZ
MM
Richard A. HempState Fishery
Area
To N
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nvi
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54
Iverson ParkWith more than 200 species on its birdlist, this park is the place to go for agreat urban wildlife experience inStevens Point. The 121-acre park islocated along the Plover River thatserves as a major migratory corridor forbirds in the spring and fall. The proper-ty consists of deciduous and coniferforests, extensive wetlands, the PloverRiver, and McDill Pond. Many hikingtrails traverse the property. There arepicnic areas, park shelters and play-ground equipment for the kids. In win-ter, the trails are a popular with cross-country skiers. The city’s 24-mile GreenCircle Trail goes through Iverson Park.The park is completely handicappedaccessible. Directions: Entering the city west-bound on Hwy 10, the entrance to thepark is the first left after crossing thePlover River; watch for the sign.
Phone: 715/346-1531Web: www.StevensPoint.com Signature species: ScarletTanager, Pine Warbler & Wilson’sSnipeRare species: Great Egret,Trumpeter Swan & Caspian,Forester’s and Common TernsGazetteer: Page 64, D-4Seasonality: Open all yearParking: Parking lotsNearest food & lodging:Stevens Point
10
39
IversonPark
GR
EEN
AV
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CO
UN
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CLU
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StevensPoint
Plov
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Rive
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53
Portage County
4499
Schmeeckle ReserveThis 275-acre reserve on the campus ofUW-Stevens Point is a College ofNatural Resources field station, provid-ing rich learning and research opportu-nities for faculty and students. It islocated on the north side of the cityand serves as a trailhead for the GreenCircle Trail that cir-cumnavigates thecity. The habitat isdiverse with mixedconifer and decidu-ous forests, wet-lands, a small wood-land stream and 24-acre Joanis Lake. TheReserve offers 5.5miles or trails. Its birdlist is an impressive 218 species, with33 species of mammals recorded onthe site. In the spring, the amphibianchorus of frogs and toads sing nightly.The reserve’s visitor’s center houses theWisconsin Conservation Hall of Fame.Directions: From I-39 take exit 161 toBus 51/Division St; turn left at the stop-lights onto North Point Dr; the Reserveis on the right just past Michigan Ave.
Phone: 715/342-9440Web:www.uwsp.edu/cnr/schmeeckle Signature species: WoodThrush, Red-bellied Woodpecker,Ruffed Grouse & Yellow-belliedFlycatcherRare species: Carolina Wren,Chipping Sparrow & Red-headedWoodpeckerGazetteer: Page 64, D-4Seasonality: Open all yearParking: Parking lotsNearest food & lodging:Stevens Point
39
51BUS
SchmeeckleReserve
MARIA DR
MIC
HIG
AN
AV
E
DIV
ISION
ST
NORTH POINT DR
StevensPoint
Sentry WorldGolf Center
55
Chipping Sparrow
MIK
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Great Blue Heron at the Schmeekle Reserve.
STEV
ENS
POIN
TC
VB
5500
Shawano CountyShawano County steps across northeastern Wisconsinlike a lazy Z. The Navarino State Wildlife Area andShawano Lake dominate the eastern half of the coun-ty, while the Stockbridge Munsee Indian Reservation isthe largest terrain feature in the west. Long a centerof lumbering, the county remains a strong player inthe state’s timber industry.
At 6,000 acres, Shawano Lake attracts plenty ofanglers and boaters. Relatively deep, the lake has asolid reputation for northern pike, walleye and large-
mouth bass – even an occasional sturgeon. Slicing through the countynorth-to-south, the pristine Wolf River offers fly fishing as well aswhitewater kayaking and canoeing.
Ten miles south of Shawano, the 14,500-acre Navarino WildlifeArea includes 7,000 acres of forest habitat, 1,000 acres of restoredprairie, 3,900 acres of bush swamp and 2,000 acres of marsh habitat(715/758-6999, www.navarino.org). Common avian species includeducks, geese, ruffed grouse, woodcock, red-shouldered hawks, andsandhill cranes. Its 56 miles of trails include 12 miles groomed forcross-country skiing during the winter months.
The Mountain Bay State Trail parallels Hwy. 29 from Green Bayto Wausau (920/448-4466, www.mountain-baytrail.org). Eighty-ninemiles long, the Mountain Bay is the longest multi-use rail-trail inWisconsin; sixty of those miles are in Shawano County. Bikers and hik-ers feeling lucky can stop at the Mohican North Star Casino &Bingo near Bowler (800/775-2274, www.mohicannorthstar.com).
Jung Hemlock-Beech Forest State Natural Area
This State Natural Area is a remnant ofthe northern mesic forest that oncecovered millions of acres of northeast-ern Wisconsin. There are old-growthhemlock, American beech, sugarmaple, yellow birch and scattered whitepine trees that are 150-200 years old.The rich ground layer of plants includesbluebead-lily, wintergreen and beech-drops, a root parasite of beech trees.Small sedge-sphagnum bogs containtamarack and black spruce. Wetlandscontain bog-laurel, mountain holly, cot-ton grass and pitcher plants. Nestingbirds fill the property with song in thespring. Directions: From Gresham, go southand east 2 miles on Cty A, then south1 mile on Cty U, then east 0.3 mile onWinkle Rd (Cty G) to a parking areasouth of the road.
Phone: 715/524-2183Web: www.dnr.wi.govSignature Species: WoodThrush, Red-eyed Vireo & EasternWood PeweeRare Species: Red and WhiteCrossbills & Blue-headed VireoGazetteer: Page 66, B-2Seasonality: Open all yearParking: Parking areaNearest Food & Lodging:Gresham
Mountain BayState Trail
U
A
A
A
A
G
29
Jung-HemlockBeech Forest
SNA
WINKLE RD
CHERRY RD
HIL
LVIE
W R
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KR
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RD
Gresham
56
5511
Mountain-Bay State TrailThis 83-mile state rail-trail gets its namefrom Rib Mountain in Wausau and thebay of Green Bay. The Shawano Countyportion of the trail is 53 miles long andspans the county from Eland to Pulaski.The trail passes through beautiful coun-tryside framed by farmlands, marshes,and small villages as well as theStockbridge Munsee Indian Reservation.Bridges cross many creeks and streams.You can bike, hike or ride your horsealong the trail. Don’t forget your fieldglasses for good looks at wildlife.Directions: There are trailheads inShawano, Eland and Pulaski.
Phone: 715/526-6766Web: www.co.shawano.wi.usSignature Species: Catbird,Chimney Swift & Eastern BluebirdRare Species: Scarlet Tanager,Wood Thrush & Great EgretGazetteer: Page 66, B-4Seasonality: Open all yearParking: Parking lotsNearest Food & Lodging:ShawanoFees: State Trail Pass fee
29
29
47
47
55
55
29
29
47
55
11732
22
22
2245
45
Trail
State
BayMountain
Eland Bowler
Gresham
Marion
Tigerton
Shawano
Pulaski
KeshenaGillett
SHAWANO CO.
MENOMINEE CO. OCONTO CO.
MA
RA
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O.
WAUPACA CO.
Navarino State Wildlife Area & Nature Center
This 15,000-acre property is a mix ofprairie, woodlands, marshes andflowages. The Wolf and Shioc Riversshape the character of this landscapethat is home to many species of nativemammals including badgers, coyotes,porcupines and beavers. A nature cen-ter offers visitors educational opportu-nities and there are programs led bystaff naturalists. There are prairierestorations to explore, or enjoy a 47-mile, self-guided auto tour of the prop-erty. Drives through the area in theearly evening produce many sightingsof deer, or you might hear the call of aGreat Horned or Barred Owl.Directions: From Shawano, go south 5miles on Cty K to Cty T east 1.3 milesto the hamlet of Lunds, then south 4.5miles on McDonald Rd to Lindstern Rdeast to the nature center.
Phone: 715/758-6999Web: www.navarino.orgSignature Species: NorthernHarrier, Eastern Bluebird, TundraSwan & American BitternRare Species: Loggerhead Shrike& Little Blue HeronGazetteer: Page 66, 4-CSeasonality: Open all yearParking: Parking LotsNearest Food & Lodging:Shawano or Bonduel
K
TK
NavarinoNature Center
TOWN LINE RD
LINSTER RD
MC
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River
NAVARINO
STATE WILDLIFE
AREA
57
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5522
Shawano County
Shawano Lake & County ParkAt 6,178 acres, Shawano Lake is part ofa 62 square mile watershed within theWolf River Basin. It is heavily used year-round for recreation. It is significant towildlife, especially during spring and fallmigrations when waterfowl of all typescan be found on the lake. There aregood roadsaround the lakethat lead to fiveboat launches.Fishing on the lakehas always beengood; wet a linefor walleye, north-ern, large-mouthbass and panfish.The county park atthe north end of the lake containswoodlands where you can find Red-headed Woodpeckers. American WhitePelicans and Tundra Swans can befound on the lake in the spring.Directions: Located 1 mile northeast ofShawano.
Phone: 715/524-4162Web: www.co.shawano.wi.usSignature Species: Yellow-headed blackbird & CommonLoonRare Species: Red-headedWoodpeckerGazetteer: Page 66, B-4Seasonality: Open all yearParking: Parking lotsNearest food & lodging:Shawano
BE
H
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RHH
29
47
47 55
22
117
Shawano
Shawano Lake
Common LoonM
IKE
MC
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American White Pelicans.
ALA
NO
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5533
Waupaca CountyWith terrific water resources and timeless charm,Waupaca County draws visitors in all seasons. TheWaupaca area’s famous Chain O’ Lakes, a string of 22spring-fed, pristine lakes, offer an ideal setting forwater activities of all sorts. The Crystal, Waupaca,Wolf, Little Wolf and Embarrass Rivers are popular forkayaking and canoeing.
The City of Waupaca, the county seat, is a pretty lit-tle town with a band shell in the downtown square anda great series of city parks. Two miles to the west, King
is the gateway to the Chain O’ Lakes. The Wisconsin Veterans Home islocated here as is Clear Water Harbor, home of the “Chief Waupaca”sternwheeler and the “Lady of the Lakes” motor launch (715/258-2866, www.clearwaterharbor.com). Both offer 1.5-hour sightseeingcruises.
Nearby, Ding’s Dock offers 3-hour canoe trips down the CrystalRiver (715/258-2612, www.dingsdock.com). Trips begin with a boat ridethrough two lakes to the start of the river. The paddle downstream issuitable for youngsters six and older and can be exciting, especially inperiods of high water. Buses provide return transportation.
On the west end of the Chain O’ Lakes, Hartman Creek StatePark offers 1,400 acres of more fun (715/258-2372,www.wiparks.net). Enjoy swimming in crystal-clear Marl Lake, 103family campsites, a nature center with naturalist programs, fishing,and 14 miles of trails, including 8 miles of horse trails and 5 miles ofmountain bike trails.
Hartman Creek State Park & Emmons Creek Fishery Area
With several quiet lakes to explore,these two properties are popular desti-nations for canoeists and kayakers.Hikers and birdersenjoy the trails thattraverse these 2,800acres, including partsof the Ice Age NationalScenic Trail. The prop-erties offer a mix ofhabitats including pineand hardwood forests,oak savannas, oldfields, marshes, lakes, and uplandmeadows. This variety attracts lots ofbirds; the bird list for the properties isan impressive 253 species. Volunteernaturalists at the park offer interpretiveprograms throughout the summer.Directions: From Waupaca, travel west5 miles on Hwy 54 to Hartman CreekRoad, then south 1.5 miles to the park.Emmons Creek Fishery Area is justsouthwest and adjacent to the park.
Phone: 715/258-2372Web: www.dnr.wi.govSignature Species: ScarletTanager, Least Flycatcher, Red-tailed Hawk, American Kestrel &Karner Blue ButterflyRare Species: AcadianFlycatcher, Grasshopper Sparrow& Henslow’s SparrowGazetteer: Page 53, 7-BSeasonality: Open all yearParking: Parking lotsNearest Food & Lodging:WaupacaFees: Park fees apply
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Keller Whitcomb Creek Woods State Natural Area
This 97-acre SNA includes the headwa-ters of Whitcomb Creek, a sandy-bot-tomed, fast flowing, Class 1 troutstream with naturally reproducingbrown and brook trout. The property’snorthern dry-mesic forest of white pine,red pine, red oak and white oak gradesinto a mesic forest of hemlock, yellowbirch, paper birch, and sugar maple.Low areas near the stream consist ofalmost pure white cedar. The groundlayer contains many species of fernsand fungi. Mink, red fox and reptilesuse the area, along with a wide varietyof songbirds including Mourning,Nashville and Yellow-rumped Warblers,Ovenbirds, Northern Waterthrush andWhite-throated Sparrows.Directions: From Iola, go north 6.5miles on Cty G to Hill Rd, then north0.5 mile to Boalter Rd, then east 1 mileto the northeast corner of the site.
Phone: 920/787-4686Web: www.dnr.wi.govSignature Species: WinterWren, Common Raven, HermitThrush & Veery, Rare Species: Red-shoulderedHawk, Yellow-bellied Flycatcher,& MerlinGazetteer: Page 65, D-8Seasonality: Open all yearParking: Parking along roadNearest Food & Lodging: Iola
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Mukwa State Wildlife AreaThis 1,290-acre property is a large com-plex of marsh, river and woods. Someof the river bottom areas are importantto spring songbirdswhile the backwaterareas attract manywaterfowl species,especially in thespring. Barred andGreat Horned Owlsnest in the woodsand BeltedKingfishers dive forminnows from treesoverhanging the water. Tundra Swanscan be seen during the fall migrationalong with numerous species of heronsand geese. There are many well-markedaccess points where you can launchyour canoe or kayak for a lazy paddleon the water. Look for mink, muskrat,woodchucks and badgers.Directions: The property is located 1mile west of New London on Cty X.
Phone: 920/787-4686Web: www.dnr.wi.gov Signature Species: Osprey, BaldEagle, Northern Harrier &American KestrelRare Species: Northern Shrike,Least Bittern & Great Egret Gazetteer: Page 54, A-2Seasonality: Open all yearParking Lot: Parking lotsprovidedNearest Food & Lodging:New London
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NewLondon
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Waupaca County
Northern Shrike
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Myklebust Lake State Natural AreaMyklebust Lake is a deep, 20-acre,marl-bottom lake with undevelopedshoreline and remarkably clear, alkalinewater supplied by numerous springs. Asmall outlet stream feeds the SouthBranch of the Little Wolf River. Whitewater-lily and bull-head lily bloom herealong with manyother wetland plants,including wild rice. Anorthern wet forestof tamarack, redmaple and elm bor-ders the outletstream. A two-acreblack spruce bogoccupies the south-east corner of the property. The eastshore is dominated by a small stand ofold white pine, some more than 2 feetin diameter. The uniqueness of theproperty attracts many species of birdsand mammals.Directions: From Iola, go south 1.1miles on Hwy 49 to a parking area westof the road. Walk west along an accesspath to a carry-in canoe landing.
Phone: 920/787-4686Web: www.dnr.wi.usSignature Species: MourningWarbler, Pileated Woodpecker &Yellow-throated VireoRare Species: NorthernWaterthrush, Least Bittern &Great EgretGazetteer: Page 53, A-7Seasonality: Open all yearParking Lot: Parking areaNearest Food & Lodging: Iola
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Waupaca County Sturgeon TrailIn April and May, Lake Sturgeon spawnhere in this shallow, rocky stretch of theWolf River. The Sturgeon is Wisconsin’soldest and largest fish. In 2001, theWisconsin DNRpaved a half-mile ofsurface trail alongthe river to make iteasy and safe forpeople to observethese ancient crea-tures. The site iscompletely accessi-ble. While you’re inthe area, look forwaterfowl during spring and fall migra-tions, and scan the trees for songbirds.Plans call for trail expansion in thefuture. This site is always good forwildlife viewing, even when the stur-geon viewing season ends. Directions: From New London, travelwest on Cty X about 2 miles to the site.
Waupaca County
Phone: 715/258-6243Web:www.waupacacountyparks.com Signature Species: LakeSturgeon, waterfowl, songbirds &heronsGazetteer: Page 54, A-2Seasonality: Open all year Parking: Signs mark parking lotsNearest Food & Lodging: NewLondon
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NewLondon
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Waushara CountyWaushara County is a wonderful blend of farming andrecreation. With more than 100 lakes, 150 miles oftrout streams, 7,000 acres of public hunting and fishing,and twelve county parks, “outdoors” is spoken here.
In Wautoma, the county seat, visit the WWIIMemorial Building (866/329-0674, www.visit-waushara.com). Built in 2003, the building honorscounty veterans and houses both the WautomaChamber of Commerce and the Waushara CVB. Forlocal history, tour the Waushara County Historical
Society Museum housed in what was once the county jail (920/787-7584, www.visitwaushara.com).
In western Waushara County, the University of Wisconsin’sHancock Agricultural Research Station offers fascinating guidedtours of its facility and the 150 research projects it conducts annually(715/249-5961, www.cals.wisc.edu/research/stations).
To the north, you can tour the Wild Rose Fish Hatchery(920/622-3527, www.dnr.state.wi.us). The facility produces 27 per-cent of the trout and salmon the DNR stocks; 64 percent of northernpike; 100 percent of lake sturgeon stocked, and 100 percent of spot-ted musky. The property just completed a new visitor center, part ofan ambitious $24.3 million hatchery improvement project.
Seven miles to the east, the crossroads community of Saxevilleboasts a beautiful new covered bridge over the Pine River.Constructed in 1997, the Towne Tress-style bridge is adjacent to asmall park in the Town of Springwater. Predictably, the bridge andpark have become one of the more popular picnic destinations in thecounty.
Greenwood State Wildlife AreaThis site is 1,438 acres of restored oaksavanna and prairie, partly done to savethe endangered oak savanna communi-ty, and partly to encourage its KarnerBlue Butterfly population. The prairiehabitat is vital nesting cover forBobolinks, Grasshopper, Field andVesper Sparrows, and both Eastern andWestern Meadowlarks. Look for KarnerBlue Butterflies in June and July wherelupine plants mix with the stands ofprairie grasses. Intermixed with beauti-ful prairie wildflowers are monarch but-terflies and prairie mammals like 13-lined ground squirrels and badgers. Youcan also hike the Ice Age Trail at thissite. Directions: Located 1.5 miles south-east of Hancock on Cty FF.
Phone: 920/424-3050Web: www.dnr.wi.gov Signature Species: RuffedGrouse & Sandhill CraneRare Species: Bob-white Quail &Karner Blue ButterflyGazetteer: Page 53, C-5Seasonality: Open all yearParking: Parking lotsNearest Food & Lodging:Hancock
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Fish Lake
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Karner Blue Meadow State Natural AreaThis 40-acre property provides dry,sandy, prairie habitat for a large popu-lation of the federally endangeredKarner Blue Butterfly. Wild lupine, theonly plant the butterfly’s larvae feed on,grows here in abun-dance. Other flower-ing prairie plants,such as rough blaz-ing-star, black-eyedSusan, and NewJersey tea, supplynectar for adultKarner blues. Thetiny butterfly, with a wingspan of only1 inch, produces two adult generationseach year, each living only about aweek. Typically, early June and the endof July are the best times to see thisbeautiful butterfly.Directions: From just north of WildRose, go east on Cty A three miles,then south on 22nd Avenue for .5 mileto the parking area.
Phone: 920/787-4686Web: www.dnr.wi.govSignature Species: Karner BlueButterflyRare Species: Yellow-billedCuckooGazetteer: Page 53, C-7Seasonality: Open all yearParking: Parking area on SEcorner of siteNearest Food & Lodging: WildRose & Wautoma
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Mecan Springs & River State Fishery AreaWith seven lakes, Mecan Spring andthe Mecan River, marshes, woodlandand upland grasslands, this is a beauti-ful site to visit at any season. BaldEagles nest in the area, and there aregood opportunities to view manyspecies of songbirds, herons and water-fowl of all kinds. Occasional flocks ofAmerican White Pelicans can be seen inthe spring. As you drive the area, con-sider stopping at boat access points tocheck for birds. Trout anglers love thisriver; its clear, cold water producessome fine fish. Kayaks and canoes are agreat way to explore these quiet watersand to view the waterfowl they harbor. Directions: Located 10 miles west ofWautoma on Hwy 21. Use either Cty Bor Cty GG north to access the area,and be sure to drive Chicago Road pastsome of the lakes.
Phone: 920/424-3050Web: www.dnr.wi.govSignature Species: Bald Eagle &Red-tailed HawkRare Species: Red-headedWoodpecker & Red-shoulderedHawkGazetteer: Page 53, D-5Seasonality: Open all yearParking: Parking areasNearest Food & Lodging:Wautoma
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Mount Morris Hills ParkThis county park is a good place to visitin every season. In springtime, the wild-flowers are in bloom and warblers andother songbirds are passing through. Insummer, it’s a great place to hike andlook for nesting birds, or bring yourcanoe and paddle Lake Morris in searchof marsh birds and herons. In fall, thecolorful leaves of thepark’s hardwood treesmake it a must for aday trip. Turkey vul-tures glide on the ther-mals created aroundthe large hill that risessharply above LakeMorris. Hawks inmigration are seen ingood numbers at thispark in the fall. Take a drive to the topof the hill and watch the hawks move. Directions: From Wautoma, take Hwy152 east and north to tiny MountMorris. Turn left on Cty G to the sign.Driving Cty W will take you around thehill to the entrance to Nordic Mountain.
Phone: 920/787-0431Web: www.1waushara.com/Signature Species: TurkeyVulture, Eastern Phoebe, &Pileated Woodpecker Gazetteer: Page 53, C-7Seasonality: Open all yearParking: Parking lotNearest Food & Lodging:Wautoma
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Waushara County
Poygan State Wildlife AreaThis large 3,282-acre property lies atthe western end of Lake Poygan. ThePine River runs through the area asdoes Willow Creek. The extensivemarsh draws all types of waterfowl,herons and shore-birds. The propertyhas many dikes thatlend themselves tohiking and allow youto go just aboutanywhere on theproperty. Hunting ispopular at this sitein the fall, so wildlifeviewing is best fromone’s car during this time. The woodedpart of the property is located alongBeaver Road; this is the best area tofind warblers, flycatchers, woodpeckersand other birds. Gulls and waterfowlcan be seen from the boat access pointat Badger Drive.
Directions: From Poy Sippi travel east on Cty H 1.5 miles to BeechnutRoad which ends at a parking lot; or south on Hwy 49 to BighornDrive or Blackhawk Avenue to access this property.
Wild Rose Fish HatcheryDon’t be fooled; birding is great at thisbeautiful property where mature treesand the Pine River attract a nice varietyof birds. The hatchery is critical toWisconsin’s $2.3 billion sport fisheryproducing 27 per-cent of the troutand salmon the DNRstocks; 64 percent ofnorthern pike; 100percent of lake stur-geon stocked, and100 percent of spot-ted musky. Ninety-four per cent of thefish, mostly Browntrout and Chinook salmon, raised atthis site go to Lake Michigan. The cen-tury-old hatchery is currently undergo-ing a $24.3 million dollar renovation.The new Visitor Center opened in 2007to welcome the public to learn moreabout the resource.
Directions: Located just north of Wild Rose on Hwy 22.
Phone: 920/424-3050Web: www.dnr.wi.govSignature Species: Bald Eagle &OspreyRare Species: Least Bittern &American WoodcockGazetteer: Page 54, D-1Seasonality: Open all year – rain& snow may close roadsParking: Parking lotsNearest Food & Lodging: PoySippi & Wautoma
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Phone: 920/424-3050Web: www.dnr.wi.govSignature Species: Trout,salmon, lake sturgeon, northernpike & spotted muskyGazetteer: Page 54, C-6Seasonality: Open all yearParking: Parking lotNearest Food & Lodging: WildRose
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Winnebago CountyWinnebago is yet another Wisconsin county largelydefined by water. To the east, the county borders LakeWinnebago, Wisconsin largest lake at 137,708 acres.A trio of large lakes – Poygan (14,102 acres),Winneconne (4,507) and Buttes des Morts (8,857acres) - cut across the center of the county, while RushLake (3,070 acres) anchors the south. These waterresources and the marshland that surrounds them,sustain large waterfowl populations.
Oshkosh, the county seat, is a picturesque commu-nity with a well-preserved sense of its history and a large state universi-ty. The city is home to the world’s largest aviation event, “EAAAirVenture” that attracts more than 700,000 spectators from 70 coun-tries each year. The annual fly-ins are hosted by the EAA AirVentureMuseum, which houses a world-class collection of historic civilian andmilitary aircraft (920/426-4818, www.airventuremuseum.org).
Near the university campus, the Oshkosh Public Museumexhibits collections of regional and natural history including their fab-ulous 1895 Apostles’ Clock (920/236-5799,www.oshkoshmuseum.org). Across the street, you can tour the travel-ing exhibits and seasonal gardens of the Paine Art Center andGardens (920/235-6903, www.thepaine.org). The museum is housedin a tudor revival mansion of one of the city’s former lumber barons.
The Grand Opera House is the jewel of the city’s downtown(920/424-2350, www.grandoperahouse.org). This restored 1833Victorian theater, now a performing arts center, is simply breathtaking.
Oshkosh-Larsen Trail PrairiesThis site is a series of three low prairieremnants along a 4-mile segment ofthe Wiouwash State Trail centered onAllenville. The Wiouwash begins inOshkosh and travels 22 miles north toHortonville. The prairie segments totaljust 32 acres, but contain a diversity ofnative prairie species. Grasses includelittle blue-stem, Indiangrass, prairiedrop-seed, and prairie cord grass.Wildflowers bloom throughout thegrowing season and include blazing-star, Riddell’s goldenrod, downy gen-tian, stiff gentian and more. Listen forthe songs of Eastern Meadowlarks andthe call of American Goldfinches over-head. Directions: From Oshkosh, travel north7 miles on Hwy 76 to Allenville Rd (CtyG), then west to Allenville and theWiouwash Trail. Hike or bike the trailnorth or south for 2 miles.
Phone: 920/424-7896Web: www.dnr.wi.govSignature Species: SongSparrow, Sedge Wren, AmericanGoldfinch & American TreeSparrowRare Species: Bobolink, EasternMeadowlark & Short-eared OwlGazetteer: Page 54, C-4Seasonality: Open all yearParking: Parking areaNearest food & lodging:OshkoshFee: Trail Pass Fee
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Allenville
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Rat River State Wildlife AreaThis 4,000-acre State Wildlife Area islinked to the Wolf River SWA by water,marsh and the Rat River. Located dueeast, it contains many of the samespecies as the Wolf River site, but ismuch larger with lowland forest andupland grassy fieldsin addition tomarshes and theriver. The additionalhabitats attract agreater mix of birdsas well as red foxand badgers. Thelowland forest is agood place to spotGolden-winged,Northern Parula and Blue-wingedWarblers. The marshy areas hold Long-billed Marsh Wrens, Song and SwampSparrows. The brushy areas are goodfor Red-eyed Vireos, Least and WillowFlycatchers.Directions: Located 3 miles northwestof Winchester via Cty II.
Rush Lake State Natural AreaBecause of its rich wildlife population,this property is one of the state’s mostimportant wetlands. Most significantare the migratory and breeding birdpopulations that frequent this site eachyear. The lake provides habitat for oneof the state’s largest populations ofRed-necked Grebes, a state-threatenedspecies. The 3,100-acre lake is a shal-low, marshy seepage lake surroundedby cattails, sedge meadow, wet prairie,and shrub-carr with clear, hard waterthat is highly productive. In the sum-mer, water lilies bloom on the waterand a large variety of marsh birds callfrom the sedges. Oak Openings andsouthern dry-mesic forests attract agood variety of songbirds. Directions: From Ripon, go north 3.5miles on Cty E to a dirt road on theeast side of the road leading to a park-ing area.
Winnebago County
Phone: 920/424-7896Web site: www.dnr.wi.govSignature species: GreenHeron, Yellow-headed blackbird,Willow Flycatcher & YellowWarblerRare species: Orchard Oriole,Louisiana Waterthrush &Mourning WarblerGazetteer: Page 54, C-3Seasonality: Open all yearParking: Parking lotsNearest food & Lodging:Winneconne
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Phone: 920/424-7896Web: www.dnr.wi.gov Signature Species: Red-neckedGrebe, Black-crowned NightHeron, Least & American BitternRare Species: Forester’s Tern,American Black Duck & BlackTernGazetteer: Page 45, A-6Seasonality: Open all yearParking: Parking areaNearest food & lodging: Ripon
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Wolf River State Wildlife AreaWater shapes Winnebago County. This1,620-acre property is a good exampleof how water is captured, filtered andrenewed by vast wetlands. The bird andanimal life here is extensive. The WolfRiver SWA offers the birder goodopportunities to experience the WolfRiver and its delta on Lake Poygan bykayak or canoe. Ashore, there are hik-ing trails that takeyou close to the riverand into marshyareas. This propertyis a favorite withanglers and hunters.In dry years, springand fall shorebirdscan be numeroushere as they searchthe mudflats forinsects. Overhead, soaring Bald Eaglesand Osprey hunt for fish. Directions: From Winchester, travelwest 6 miles on Cty II to Zittau, turnsouth on South Rd 1 mile to the park-ing area.
Phone: 920/424-7896Web: www.dnr.wi.govSignature Species: Great BlueHeron, Canada Goose, AmericanBlack Duck & Belted KingfisherRare Species: Least Bittern,American Egret & AmericanWhite PelicanGazetteer: Page 54, C-2Seasonality: Open all yearParking: Parking lotsNearest food & lodging:Winneconne
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Wood CountyLocated in the geographic center of the state, WoodCounty is loaded with fun.
Marshfield, near the county’s northern border,maintains one of the state’s best zoos. WildwoodZoo keeps more than 200 birds and animals includingmountain lions, grizzly bear, buffalo, and a large aviary(800/422-4541, www.ci.marshfield.wi.us). FoxfireBotanical Gardens, just outside of town, displaysseven acres of oriental and western landscape tech-niques (715/387-3050, www.foxfiregardens.com). Or,
you can tour the Upham Mansion, the restored 1880 mansion ofWisconsin’s third governor, William Henry Upham (715/387-3322,www.uphammansion.com).
A trio of cities along the Wisconsin River in southern WoodCounty – Wisconsin Rapids, Port Edwards and Nekoosa – shares acommon history in the paper industry. Tours of the huge Stora EnsoNorth American complex in downtown Wisconsin Rapids offer aclose-up look at this paper industry giant including a paper machinelonger than a city block (715/422-3789, www.storaenso.com/na). Atthe Rainbow Casino in Nekoosa, you can play the slots, blackjack,roulette or poker (800/782-4560, www.rbcwin.com).
Eight miles north in tiny Rudolph, the Rudolph Grotto Gardens& Wonder Cave is a folk-art collection of 29 religious memorials andshrines linked by floral walkways (715/435-3120). Nearby, you canwatch cheese being made at the Wisconsin Dairy State CheeseCompany (715/435-3144).
Paul Olson State Wildlife AreaThe second-largest population ofGreater Prairie Chicken in the state isfound on Paul Olson. This 1,650-acreproperty is one of four core manage-ment areas for the Greater PrairieChicken in central Wisconsin and ranksas an Important Bird Area. The propertyis broken into two locations: one inWood County and the other in PortageCounty. The landscape is flat and most-ly agricultural, but there are scatteredsedge meadows, old fields, swampsand woodlands. This is also a greatplace to find Sedge Wrens, Clay-col-ored, Savannah, and Vesper Sparrows.While driving the many roads in thearea, look for Northern Harriers huntingover meadows. Directions: Parcel 1 is located 4 mileswest of Rudolph via Cty C to SwedishRd north. Parcel 2 is located 3 milesnorth of Rudolph via Cty O in PortageCounty.
Phone: 715/421-7800Web: www.dnr.wi.gov Signature Species: GreaterPrairie Chicken, Bobolink &Upland SandpiperRare Species: Whooping CraneGazetteer: Page 52, A-2Seasonality: Open all yearParking: Parking providedNearest food & lodging:Wisconsin Rapids
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Powers Bluff Maple Woods State NaturalArea & Powers Bluff County Park
This property is perched atop a 300-foot-high hill of quartzite. A rich south-ern mesic forest of sugar maple, yellowbirch, bitternut hickory, ash and bass-wood covers the slopes. In spring, theforest floor is carpet-ed with wildflowersand ferns includingbloodroot, hepatica,blue cohosh, andviolets. The area sup-ports a spectaculardisplay of large-flow-ered trillium. On thesouth end of theproperty, you’ll findquartzite rock outcrops covered withcolumbine and ferns. Bird life includeswarblers, flycatchers and otherneotropical migrants. This 70-acre sitehas a hiking trail through part of it forfurther exploration.
Directions: Located within Powers Bluff County Park. From Arpin, gosouth 1 mile on Cty E, then west 1.1 miles on Bluff Dr to the parkentrance.
Sandhill State Wildlife AreaSandhill Wildlife Area was formerly agame farm developed by WallaceGrange for researching wildlife habitatrestoration. His work focused onSandhill Cranes and white-tailed deer.Grange conducted biological surveysand worked to restore this worn outland to pre-settlement conditions.Bobcats, badgers and many species ofbirds call this 9,150-acre area home.Flat marshy areas, wooded uplands,and old fields cover the property. TheSandhill Outdoor Skills Center hostsworkshops and tours for the public.The Trumpeter Trail, a 14-mile auto orbike tour, takes you throughout theproperty. There are three observationdecks, one that overlooks a bisonrange. Directions: Visitor entrance located 1mile west of Babcock via Cty X.
Phone: 715/884-2437Web: www.dnr.wi.gov Signature species: Red-eyedVireo & OvenbirdRare species: Woodland vole &Least FlycatcherGazetteer: Page 63, D-8Seasonality: Open all yearParking: Parking areaNearest food & lodging: Arpinor Marshfield
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Phone: 715/884-2437Web: www.dnr.wi.gov Signature Species: RuffedGrouse, Bald Eagle & TrumpeterSwan, & Sandhill CraneRare Species: Red-headedWoodpeckerGazetteer: Page 51, B-7Seasonality: Open all year Parking: Parking providedNearest food & lodging:Babcock or PittsvilleFees: Donations accepted
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Wood County State Wildlife AreaThe water-rich marshes of this 19,303-acre property attract many species ofbirds including herons, rails, waterfowland songbirds. Visit the grasslands insummer for a chancelook at a Karner BlueButterfly, or explorethe woodlands forwarblers, orioles andtanagers. This proper-ty has a small popula-tion of Sharp-tailedGrouse that populatethe grasslands. Roadsallow you to travelthe property by car orbike; take AmundsenRoad through thecranberry bogs for achance to seeWhooping Cranes. Birders use thisproperty all year ‘round. Directions: Located 1 mile southwestof Babcock via Cty X or Hwy 173.
Wood County
Phone: 715/884-2437Web: www.dnr.wi.gov Signature Species: Ruffed andSharp-tailed Grouse & Bald EagleRare Species: Red-headedWoodpecker & Whooping CraneGazetteer: Page 51, B-7Seasonality: Open all year Parking: Parking providedNearest food & lodging:Babcock or Pittsville
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Bird watcherscanpay their wayThrough the simple act of buying a MigratoryBird Hunting and Conservation or “Duck” stampat your post office, you join conservationistswho contribute directly to their hobby of bird
watching. Sales of the stamp raise$25 million dollarsannually in the USand are sold toconservationists,hunters and stampcollectors. Since1934, $7 milliondollars worth ofstamps have been
purchased in Wisconsin. Ninety-eight cents fromeach dollar is used to fund wetland wildlifehabitat acquisitions. These waterfowl produc-tion areas include Necedah and HoriconNational Wildlife Refuges, among others.
Conserve habitat & your hobby...Buy Duck Stamps
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County ContactsThese contacts, in each of the seven-teen counties in the Central Sandsregion, are ready to help you planyour outdoor adventure. They cansuggest accommodations andrestaurants, as well as attractionsand other historical, cultural andenvironmental opportunities.
Adams County Chamber ofCommerce & Tourism608/339-6997, 888/339-6997www.adamscountywi.com
Calumet County Tourism920/849-1493, ext. 200www.travelcalumet.com
Clark County EconomicDevelopment Corp.715/267-3205, 888/252-7594www.clark-cty-wi.org
Fond du Lac Area CVB920/923-3010, 800/937-9123www.fdl.com
Green Lake Visitors Center800/662-6927www.glcountry.com
Juneau County Visitors Bureau608/847-1904www.juneaucounty.com/tourism.asp
Wausau-Central Wisconsin CVB715/355-8788, 888/948-4748www.visitwausau.com
Montello Area Chamber ofCommerce608/297-7420, 800/684-7199www.montellowi.com
Menominee Tribal Public Relations715/799-5217www.menominee-nsn.gov
More Sources of Tourism InformationSparta Area Chamber of Commerce608/269-4123, 800/354-2453www.bikesparta.com
Fox Cities CVB920/734-3358, 800/236-6673www.foxcities.org
Stevens Point Area CVB715/344-2556, 800/236-4636www.stevenspointarea.com
Shawano Country Chamber ofCommerce715/524-2139, 800/235-8528www.shawanocountry.com
Waupaca Area Chamber ofCommerce715/258-7343, 888/417-4040www.waupacaareachamber.com
Waushara Area Chamber ofCommerce920/787-3488, 877/928-8662www.visitwaushara.com
Oshkosh CVB920/303-9200, 877/303-9200www.oshkoshcvb.org
Wisconsin Rapids Area CVB715/422-4650, 800/554-4484www.visitwisrapids.com
More Birding ResourcesNational Audubon Society800/542-2748www.audubon.org/states/wi
Necedah National Wildlife Refuge608/565-2551http://midwest.fws.gov/necedah
Wisconsin Department of NaturalResources608/266-2621www.dnr.wi.gov
TravelGreenWisconsinThe success of Wisconsin’s tourism industry has been largely dependent upon thequality and diversity of our natural resources – the state’s scenic lakes, streams,rivers, forests, prairies, and the wildlife that inhabit them. Understanding this,Wisconsin is committed to preserving this pristine natural product.
Travel Green Wisconsin is a Wisconsin Department of Tourism ini-tiative that encourages tourism operators to reduce their environ-mental impact. Designed to promote smart, eco-friendly businesspractices, Travel Green is a win-win concept. Launched in 2006,the program has been embraced by every sector of the state’stravel and hospitality industry.
As you travel, look for the Travel Green Wisconsin logo.Businesses displaying the Travel Green certificate demonstrate theircommitment to a sustainable Wisconsin tourism industry.
For more information, visit www.travelgreenwisconsin.com
Hurley
Marinette
Hudson
Superior
La Crosse
Prairie du Chien
Grant CountyBeloit
KenoshaGenoaCity
The Wisconsin Department of Tourism operates ten WisconsinWelcome Centers at major highway entrances to the state.They’re great places to stop for maps, travel information, tripplanning, brochures and publications, vacation ideas, or just afriendly smile and directions to the nearest restaurant.
Centers distribute free publications thatdetail Wisconsin accommodations,attractions, events, golfing, camping,biking, birding, state parks, and his-toric attractions. You can also orderthese free publications on-line atwww.travelwisconsin.com, or call toll-free 800/432-8747.
Just a fewsmilesaway.
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rom the mossy shadows of Parfrey’sGlen to the soaring majesty of PlumLake Hemlocks, discover the treasures
of Wisconsin’s prairies, bogs,forests, and fens with this guideto 150 of our finest State NaturalAreas. The perfect companion forhikers, birders, and nature lovers,this 184-page, spiral-bound bookdescribes the plants, animals, andnatural communities found inthese special places. Color mapsand detailed driving directions toeach site are also included.
Proceeds from the sale of “Wisconsin, naturally” willbe used to protect our state’s natural heritage forfuture generations.
To order, please send a check or money order(payable to Endangered Resources Fund-Guidebook) to:
Wisconsin DNR - Guidebook - ER/6P.O. Box 7921Madison WI 53707-7921
Price is $15.00 plus shipping* (tax included)
*Shipping costs are $3.00 for 1-2 books or $5.00 for 3-10 books.
ER-660 2007
The Great Wisconsin Birding and Nature Trail benefits from andis supported by contributions to the Endangered Resources Fundthrough your Wisconsin income tax form, through the purchaseof Endangered Resources license plates for your vehicle, or by
direct donations to the Endangered Resources Program at; Endangered Resources Program
WDNR P.O. 7921
Madison, WI 73707 (608) 266-7012
The Great Wisconsin Birding and Nature Trail Guide ispresented in part by the following sponsors.
For more information visit www.wisconsinbirds.org/trailor travelwisconsin.com
