Did you know that a unique desert ecosystem exists in the state of Wisconsin? Located just 38 miles northwest of the capitol city of Madison, WI, you’ll find a unique region of the state that is considered to be the desert of Wisconsin. Home to unique plant communities not found elsewhere in the state, Spring…
Just outside of Glenwood Springs, Colorado, within Glenwood Canyon is the steep and scenic Hanging Lake Trail. Located within the larger White River National Forest, the trail lies 7 miles east of Glenwood Springs along Interstate 70. This challenging backcountry trail will transport you through a winding canyon with stunning views to an alpine lake…
Jefferson County, Colorado is home to many scenic mountain hikes. With over 275 miles of trails, 75 parks, and 58,000 acres of open space to enjoy, there is something for everyone. For a commanding view of Denver, the Continental Divide, and downtown Golden, Colorado, consider a hike on the Galbraith Loop Trail just outside of…
In the Great Lakes region, spring is a treat for the senses. As winter transitions to spring, birds begin to nest, trees and shrubs begin to bud, and native spring wildflowers emerge. Also known as spring ephemerals, these beautiful native plants appear in early spring before the leaf canopy has filled out. They are here for…
New Mexico’s Santa Fe National Forest is home to clear blue skies, stunning scenery, wildflowers, and an abundance of hiking trails. Each time I visit New Mexico, I am reminded why the state is known as the Land of Enchantment. New Mexico is home to a wide range of stunning landscapes, colorful sunsets, indigenous culture,…
The Holy Hill Basilica and National Shrine is located in southeastern Wisconsin in the beautiful town of Hubertus. Located at 1525 Carmel Road in Hubertus, the Basilica sits perched at 1,335 feet in elevation, one of the highest elevations in southeastern Wisconsin. This gorgeous basilica sits elevated within a gorgeous setting on 435 acres within…
Located just 30 miles north of Madison, Wisconsin, in the town of Baraboo, you’ll find a true geologic gem. Parfrey’s Glen was the first state natural area ever to be established in Wisconsin, in 1952, by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources. This scenic glen is part of Wisconsin’s 1.6 million year old Baraboo Range.…
Wisconsin’s Kettle Moraine Forest is comprised of five main units, encompassing over 56,000 acres in southeastern Wisconsin. The Ice Age National Scenic Trail, one of only 11 National scenic trails in the United States, travels through varied terrain is the Kettle Moraine. This beautiful trail encompasses over 1000 miles and 28 counties in the state…
Wisconsin’s Ice Age National Scenic Trail is one of only 11 National scenic trails in the United States. This beautiful trail encompasses over 1000 miles and 28 counties throughout the state, from hills and bluffs to woodlands and prairies rich with native plants. Dane County, Wisconsin lies within the Driftless Region, (comprised of the northwest part…
Boulder Junction is located in the heart of the Northern Highland American Legion State Forest in the Northwoods of Wisconsin. This beautiful region of the state is filled with over 1,300 sparkling lakes, old growth forest, calling loons, endless opportunities for outdoor recreation, and most importantly, Northwoods peace. Winter is one of the most beautiful…