Photo by Andrew Pirrung
More than a walk in the woods
Experience one of the Midwest’s most biologically diverse ecosystems, where kids hike for free, and trails are open from dawn til dusk.
Always something to do
All Events-
Winter Sanctuary Guided Hike
Fridays & Saturdays, January – March -
Artist Reception with Tony Chapa
March 06, 2026 -
Owl Prowl
March 06, 2026 -
Eastern Screech-Owl Nest Box Workshop
March 07, 2026 -
Open Door Bird Sanctuary Meet & Greet
March 07, 2026 -
Walk & Talk with Ridges Research Team
February 16, 2026 -
Snapshot Wisconsin – Let’s Discover Wildlife Together! Virtual
March 12, 2026
There’s magic when land preservation, education, and research come together.
What started as 30 acres has grown from a local gem to a national treasure – with international appeal and members in all 50 states.
1,700+
Acres preserved
2,600
Boardwalk feet (ft.)
30
Ridges and swales
29
Unique orchid species
News from the Ridges & Swales
Nature Notes: Winter Lessons from the Forest
The forest teaches us many things; we just need to know where to look and how to listen. The winter season brings the lesson of life and allows us to see movement of animals in a way that no other season can. While most animals are elusive and not always seen while hiking, the ground cover of snow allows us to understand activities of active, resident animals in our area through deer beds, middens, scat, and tracks.
Nature Notes: Snowy Owls on the Prowl
Nature Notes: Season of Change – How Nature Prepares for Winter
The Swale Tale
