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…
Tucked into the northwestern corner of Ogle and Lee Counties in Illinois is an ecological treasure. The expansive Nachusa Grasslands is home to 4,000 acres of restored and remnant prairie, 700+ native plant species, conservative grassland birds, and a herd of nearly 100 American bison. Beautiful in all seasons, a visit to Nachusa will transport…
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,…
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 Ice Age National Scenic Trail is one of only 11 National scenic trails in the United States. The varied terrain of the Ice Age Trail highlights Wisconsin’s unique glacial history, encompassing over 1000 miles and 28 counties throughout Wisconsin. Among the many scenic segment hikes in southern Wisconsin, the Whitewater Lake segment in Walworth…
Marquette Michigan, located on the southern shore of Lake Superior, is the largest city in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. Home to 20,000+ residents, the city is historically known for the shipping of iron ore through the Marquette Iron Range. Large vessels regularly pass through the ports of Marquette. This historic city on Lake Superior’s southern…
In search of a great winter hike along a scenic trail filled with diverse landscapes? The 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 in the state of Wisconsin. You will be fascinated by the geology of…