2024 Field Trips

Friday, May 24, 6:00 am - 8:00 am

Catch the birds as they sing their morning chorus. This walk will emphasize migratory and resident birds that rely on the coastal forests of Door County. TNC Conservation Ecologist Mike Grimm  will lead this hike in The Nature Conservancy’s Shivering Sands  Preserve. Suitable for ages 8 and up.

Friday, May 24, 8:00 am - 11:00 am

Rieboldt Creek is the outlet for Mud Lake and flows nearly two
miles as it meanders its way to Lake Michigan. Rich aquatic
diversity abounds and will be on display as paddlers experience this hidden gem nestled within the Mud Lake State Natural Area. Enjoy a relaxing paddle up the creek and into Mud Lake. Glide through diverse beds of aquatic plants, including burreed, coontail, and wild rice. Bring your binoculars — this site is excellent for viewing migrating waterfowl and songbirds! Bring your own canoe/kayak, paddles, and PFDs. You may also call Bay Shore Outfitters to rent a kayak. Length of trip may vary based on wind conditions; must be able to paddle for 2 hours. Suitable for all ages.

Friday, May 24, 9:00 am - 10:30 am

In 2018, Horseshoe Bay Farms, Inc., a 501(c)(3) non-profit, was established. Originally constructed between 1917-1919 on the beautiful shores of Green Bay in Egg Harbor, several barns and structures of this historic farm still stand today. Because of its prominence in the development of Door County, both in agricultural industry and as a civic landmark, it is listed on the National & State Register of Historic Places. Spend the morning with a guide walking the property, experiencing the iconic barns up close, and learning about its extensive history as well as its long-term vision. Suitable for ages 12 and up.

Friday, May 24, 9:00 am - 11:00 am

Ride aboard the Friends of Plum and Pilot Islands’ ship, “The
Shoreline,” for this narrated tour where guests will learn
information about the flora, fauna, and geology that makes
the Green Bay and Gravel Island National Wildlife Refuges
important and interesting including seeing one of the nation’s
smallest designated Federal Wilderness areas! This waterborne tour includes traveling through Death’s Door to Gravel Island National Wildlife Refuge, and around Pilot and Plum Islands of Green Bay National Wildlife Refuge. Suitable for all ages.

Friday, May 24, 9:00 am - 11:00 am

Listen to the story of wetland restoration and management at
this important Hine’s Emerald Dragonfly breeding site. We will
discuss the ecology and hydrology of these alkaline headwaters of Peil Creek, and the importance of this site in the context of the surrounding landscape. We’ll also be on the lookout for wildlife and migratory and breeding birds that utilize this site. Suitable for ages 12 and up.

Friday, May 24, 9:00 am - 11:00 am

Listen to a presentation on Motus and The Ridges’ role in the
overall network. The presentation will also go over how to look
at individual bird detections. A bird walk will follow to discuss
the station that is at the Sanctuary and answer any questions
people may have. Wear hiking boots. Suitable for ages 12 and
up.

Friday, May 24, 9:00 am - 11:00 am

Explore the unique geology of this community treasure. In 2019, the Door County Land Trust assisted the Village of Sister Bay in acquiring the 16-acre nature preserve along the shore of Green Bay. According to state geologists, this site contains the best example of post-glacial shorelines in all the Great Lakes. This property hosts a beautiful old growth white cedar forest, 600 feet of undeveloped shoreline, and a series of 13 post-glacial beach ridges. Discover the unique geology of this beach with geologist Thomas Stasiak. Hiking will be easy to moderate with some inclined terrain along the rocky beach and will cover approximately 0.5 mile. Sturdy shoes are recommended. Suitable for ages 16 and up.

Friday, May 24, 9:00 am - 11:00 am

The Ellison Bay Bluff County Park is known for its spectacular
scenery. This unforgettable tour will start with geologic history.
Once on the trails, the group will examine a plethora of spring
wildflowers, such as trillium and yellow lady’s slippers, making
this an unforgettable trip. Suitable for ages 16 and up.

Friday, May 24, 9:00 am - 11:30am

Explore this 500+acre Door County Land Trust Preserve, listed
as remarkable on several fronts: A wetland of international
importance and home to the Federally endangered Hine’s
Emerald Dragonfly as well as little brown bats who roost in an
1870’s barn on the property. Suitable for ages 12 and up.

Friday, May 24, 9:00 am - 11:30am

Door County’s Lake Michigan coastal landscape comprises of
a matrix of sand formations, dolomite bedrock outcroppings,
and organic muck soil settings. This field trip will look at this
landscape from a broad to fine scale in an effort to understand
the development of these landforms and their effect on the
various plant and animal assemblages that live there. Suitable
for ages 10 and up.

Friday, May 24, 9:00 am - 11:30am

Learn about traditional ecological knowledge of Three Sisters
gardening with Kathleen Ratteree. This program will provide the foundation of knowledge of Three Sisters agriculture, as well as ideas for starting your own Three Sisters garden. Suitable for ages 16 and up.

Friday, May 24, 9:00 am - 11:30 am

It Isn’t Easy Being (Ever) Green: Besides conifers, what other plants stay green all year? Join us as we take a leisurely walk through the rustic trails of the Sanctuary to learn about plants that stay green all year long. You’ll learn the advantages/disadvantages of being evergreen and identify several species of evergreen plants. As a bonus, you will enjoy the spring wildflowers that will surely be in bloom! Suitable for ages 12 and up.

Friday, May 24, 9:00 am - 12:00 pm

Be present in nature, and discover what nature has to present
you. Refresh your body and soul with a slow guided walk in
nature, accompanied by a certified nature and forest therapy
guide. A standard sequence of invitations (activities that you
choose to participate in or not), helps awaken your senses and
encourages you to slow down, be present, and connect with your surroundings. This is a 2 1/2- 3-hour slow walk covering about 1-2 miles. Refreshments and conversation complete the walk. Doorway to Nature LLC is here to promote wellness, harmony, community, and environmental stewardship, by partnering with nature and connecting you with nature’s offerings. Suitable for ages 16 and up.

Friday, May 24, 9:00 am - 12:00 pm

With over 650 acres protected by the Door County Land Trust
and The Nature Conservancy, Kangaroo Lake is one of Door
County Land Trust’s oldest nature preserves and is an ecological gem. Paddle along with us and explore it all from the water! We’ll visit the mouth of Peil Creek where it empties into Kangaroo Lake and continue along a mile of largely undeveloped shoreline that’s home to a host of species including; bald eagles, osprey, kingfisher, ducks, sandhill cranes, Caspian Terns, turtles, northern pike, smallmouth bass, and the Federally endangered Hine’s emerald dragonfly. We’ll look for “Fish Sticks,” submerged trees that provide fish habitat and reduce shoreline erosion. Suitable for ages 16 and up.

Friday, May 24, 10:00 am - 12:00 pm

Head out into the sparkling waters of Lake Michigan on “Hope,” a retired U.S. Navy boat. Hope was built tough to meet high military safety standards and skipped by knowledgeable and experienced captains, so you can be assured of a safe trip.
Hope will navigate the rustic shoreline of Lake Michigan while
the narrator/first mate will share stories of the near and distant
past, of shipwrecks and lighthouses, ancient geology, and
current geography, and of changes to the local landscape,
fauna, and flora. This trip is designed to be an overview of this
most beautiful and amazing peninsula! Suitable for families
with kids ages 5 and above.

Friday, May 24, 11:30 am - 1:30 pm

Ride aboard the Friends of Plum and Pilot Islands’ ship, “The
Shoreline,” for this narrated tour where guests will learn
information about the flora, fauna, and geology that makes
the Green Bay and Gravel Island National Wildlife Refuges
important and interesting including seeing one of the nation’s
smallest designated Federal Wilderness areas! This waterborne tour includes traveling through Death’s Door to Gravel Island National Wildlife Refuge, and around Pilot and Plum Islands of Green Bay National Wildlife Refuge. Suitable for all ages.

Friday, May 24, 1:00 pm - 3:00 pm

Greetings! Welcome aboard our Navy Liberty Launch the
“Gratitude.” She is a 40 x 12 foot vessel that is very safe and seakindly. This tour starts going west to Fincantieri Shipyard, then to shipwrecks at Bullhead. After that we will head back east where we will cover a range of current and historical points of interest. The tour eventually goes through the shipping canal to Lake Michigan where we will be treated to great photo opportunities of the Coast Guard station lighthouse as well as the pierhead lighthouse (known locally as the Red Shed). Subjects include geology, the fishery, commerce, and navigation. Suitable for all ages.

Friday, May 24, 1:00 pm - 3:30 pm

The Baileys Harbor area includes six State Natural Areas that
are part of the Door Coastal Wetlands, a Ramsar Wetland of
International Importance. On this trip, you’ll visit Baileys Harbor
Boreal Forest, Moonlight Bay Bedrock Beach, Mud Lake, and North Bay. You’ll learn about the ecology of the coastal wetlands and discover access points and little-known hiking trails. Highlights of the trip include rare and native plants, cedar forests, blooming Indian Paintbrush and Dwarf Lake Iris. Suitable for ages 18 and up.

Friday, May 24, 1:00 pm - 3:30 pm

The Mink River Estuary is a dynamic coastal wetland and forest
landscape that provides habitat for a number of important
plants and animals including Great Lakes fish, many species of
migratory and breeding birds, and mammals representative
of Wisconsin’s mixed conifer hardwood forests. This 2.5-mile,
moderate loop hike will meander through the upland and
lowland forests surrounding the east side of the Mink River
Estuary with brief views of the marsh and springs that feed the
river. We will look for birds and learn about TNC’s work to protect and restore these forests. Suitable for ages 16 and up.

Friday, May 24, 1:00 pm - 3:30 pm

Join us in a discussion of the goals of a major Dwarf Lake Iris
Restoration Project at The Ridges. This joint venture is focused
on determining the feasibility and environmental conditions
needed for the preservation of the Federally and State
threatened dwarf lake iris. Jade, Sam, and Tony will explain the
project parameters and lead participants through the project
area, explaining the processes and methodology as they stroll
along the boardwalk. Suitable for ages 16 and up.

Friday, May 24, 1:30 pm - 3:00 pm

Terrestrial arthropods (insects, spiders, and their relatives) are
the most species-rich group of animals in Wisconsin. You’ll learn easy ways to “beat the bushes” for these amazing creatures, and about ways to identify those you run into. This will be an easy stroll, not a hike, and is good for both adults and kids. Suitable for ages 18 and up.

Friday, May 24, 1:30 pm - 3:30 pm

Take a hike through the forested dunes to Europe Lake and
return by way of the rocky headlands and sandy beach of the
north end of Newport State Park in search of wildflowers and
birds. You’ll also learn about the geology of this unique and
fragile area. Bring binoculars. The hike will include some hills.
Suitable for ages 16 and up.

Friday, May 24, 1:30 PM - 3:30 pm

Have you ever found a mushroom, flower, or bug, and not been sure what it is? The Seek app is for you! This smartphone app uses the power of image recognition technology to identify
the plants and animals all around you. Drawing from millions
of wildlife observations on iNaturalist, Seek shows you lists of
commonly recorded insects, birds, plants, amphibians, and
more in your area. Join us to learn how to use this app and what it has to offer while exploring the DCLT Oak Road Nature Preserve. We will be slowly walking on an easy, level-to-rolling terrain for approximately one mile of trail. Make sure to wear sturdy walking shoes. Families are encouraged and welcome! Registrants will receive more information about how to download the app ahead of time. Suitable for all ages.

Friday, May 24, 1:30 pm - 3:30 pm

Take a tour of Sway Brewing’s fermentation cellar. You will
learn about Sway’s brewing philosophy—highlighting storied,
regionally sourced ingredients, taking inspiration from old world styles, and following a minimal intervention approach using rustic techniques. Sway Brewing highlights many foraged, native ingredients and locally grown fruits in their beers. These beers are a direct representation of the area in which they’re brought to life—Door County. Sway strives to connect our environment and our community through balanced, pleasant beer. Must be 21 or older to participate

Friday, May 24, 1:30 pm - 3:30 pm

The surface water is long gone from this DCLT preserve, but this beautiful area provides evidence of ancient glacial drainage paths for the Plum Bottom area south of Egg Harbor. Caves and enlarged rock crevices, coupled with springs that outlet below the escarpment, provide a great example of the classic sinkhole/spring complexes that are so prevalent throughout Door County. Descend the Niagara Escarpment and enjoy Door County’s seasonal wildflowers. We’ll engage in an intriguing discussion on glacial geology, karst features and challenges of protecting water quality in sensitive areas. Hiking boots are recommended, as we will face a stretch of rocky terrain on the trip. Suitable for ages 12 and up.

Friday, May 24, 1:30 pm - 4:00 pm

See where milk comes from and how sustainability is behind
every decision on this fourth-generation family farm. Learn
about modern dairy farming and how milk is sustainably
produced, from crops to cows. Meet the cows and calves up
close as you learn how they are cared for and grow to become
a member of the milking herd. You will also see some of the
land used to grow crops to feed the animals and hear about
the regenerative practices used. Cycle Farm is part of the
Door-Kewanee Demonstration Farm network, testing various
innovative practices to help increase organic matter, improve
soil health, and reduce soil erosion and nutrient loss. Suitable
for ages 12 and up.

Friday, May 24, 1:30 pm - 4:00 pm

Join scientific illustrator Kathleen Garness for a two-part
dive into the world of nature drawing. In the Friday morning
workshop, you will learn how to construct your own nature
journal. Basic supplies and archival materials and tools needed
will be provided, with the handouts and journal itself that are
yours to take home. On Saturday (See #59), we will explore
the Sanctuary trails and observe, learn, share, and illustrate.
No experience is necessary - we want you to see plants with a
fresh point of view! You are also welcome to bring your supplies. Participants are encouraged to participate in both workshops; however, you are welcome to participate in individual sessions. Suitable for ages 14 and up.

Friday, May 24, 1:30 pm - 4:00 pm

Explore Toft Point State Natural Area and learn about its natural wildlife community as well as the Toft family history. This will be an easy hike on level terrain; however, the path has rocks and some tree roots, sturdy hiking shoes so a walking stick may be needed. It is also suggested to wear long pants rather than shorts. If deer flies are out, you may also want to wear a hat. Suitable for ages 16 and up.

Friday, May 24, 1:30 pm - 4:30 pm

Did you know that Big Creek was once marketed as an ideal
place for a gas station? Come explore the Big Creek preserve
with Sam and Jamie as we look at soil and ecological habitats and piece together Crossroads history. This trip will require hiking on maintained trails and end at the Cove Preserve to paddle the estuary. Attendees should plan to bring walking shoes, kayaks, paddles, PFDs, weather-appropriate clothing, and a sense of adventure. Suitable for ages 16 and up.

Friday, May 24, 1:30 pm - 4:30 pm

Want to expand your ability to enjoy birds? Come and learn how to “listen and look.” It’s easy! Jan Wrede is a summer resident of Door County and an environmental educator. Deb Ford is a resident of Door County and a life-long birder. Join them for a colorful presentation that includes 25 local species and an outdoor lesson on the use of the Merlin app for recording and identifying bird songs. This class is designed for beginners and intermediate birders. You are encouraged to follow this class with the Saturday morning Birding By Ear Field Trip #33. Suitable for ages 12 and up.

Friday, May 24, 2:00 pm - 4:00 pm

Ride aboard the Friends of Plum and Pilot Islands’ ship, “The Shoreline,” for this narrated tour where guests will learn information about the flora, fauna, and geology that makes the Green Bay and Gravel Island National Wildlife Refuges important and interesting including seeing one of the nation’s smallest designated Federal Wilderness areas! This waterborne tour includes traveling through Death’s Door to Gravel Island National Wildlife Refuge, and around Pilot and Plum Islands of Green Bay National Wildlife Refuge. Suitable for all ages.

Friday, May 24, 6:30 pm - 8:30 pm

Head out into the sparkling waters of Lake Michigan on “Hope,” a retired U.S. Navy boat. Hope was built tough to meet high military safety standards and skipped by knowledgeable and experienced captains, so you can be assured of a safe trip. Hope will navigate the rustic shoreline of Lake Michigan while the narrator/first mate will share stories of the near and distant past, of shipwrecks and lighthouses, ancient geology, and current geography, and of changes to the local landscape, fauna, and flora. This trip is designed to be an overview of this most beautiful and amazing peninsula! Suitable for families with kids ages 5 and above.

Saturday, May 25, 7:00 am - 9:00am

“Un-wax” your ears and try something new. Listen, look, and
identify birds in the beautiful old field and upland hardwood
habitats common in Door County. Deb Ford is a lifelong birder
with years of experience identifying birds by their sounds. Jan
Wrede is a summer resident of Door County and environmental
educator. Join them for practice recognizing birds by their
songs and calls and the use of Merlin app. This class is
designed for beginning and intermediate birders. Participants
are encouraged take this class following participation in Field
Trip #30. Suitable for ages 12 and up.

Saturday, May 25, 8:30 am - 12:00 pm

Nature can be experienced through many different lenses.
How do you translate it through the camera lens? Join Tom
Turriff for a lesson on the basics of nature photography, and
the ethics of photographing in natural, wild spaces. We will
meet at the Baileys Harbor Town Hall, then travel to ephemeral
wildflower habitat to put your knowledge to practice with an
abundance of spring wildflowers to photograph. This program
is suitable for beginning and intermediate photographers.
More detailed information and requirements for this tour is
available on the Festival of Nature website. Please be sure
to review all information before choosing to register for this
program. Suitable for ages 18 and up.

Saturday, May 25, 9:00 am - 10:30 am

Enjoy an insightful narrative as our 69-passenger tour boat
navigates the waters north along Peninsula State Park’s 7-mile
shoreline. You’ll learn about the park’s human and natural
history, including the story of the Niagara Escarpment. Have
your cameras ready as we cruise past the 156-year-old Eagle
Bluff Lighthouse. You’ll also learn about the history of Ephraim
and the millionaire’s estate on Horseshoe Island and enjoy an
up close and personal view of Eagle Cave, 40 feet above the
shoreline. Finally, you’ll hear stories of French explorers and early Indian inhabitants at Nicolet Bay and have a chance to catch a glimpse of local wildlife along the shores and soaring along the caves high above. Suitable for all ages

Saturday, May 25, 9:00 am - 11:00 am

Take a look behind the scenes at Open Door Bird Sanctuary
– the only facility of its kind in Door County! Besides the rare
opportunity to see the ODBS raptors up close and personal in
their sanctuary mews, this tour will also feature actual feeding
of the raptors, a photo op with one of the sanctuary birds,
and a guided trail hike highlighting the sanctuary’s various
ecosystems. ODBS is a nature center devoted to raptor and
environmental education. Suitable for ages 8 and up.

Saturday, May 27, 9:00 am - 11:30 am

What’s the buzz about pollinators? Join us at The Ridges
Sanctuary for an un-bee-lievable experience exploring the
insects that support our southernmost boreal forest. Learn
about how millions of years of coevolution has transformed the
relationship between bees and flowering plants into one of the most important phenomena for ecosystems worldwide. A hike around Hidden Brook boardwalk and our rustic trails will provide insight into what The Ridges is doing to protect pollinators, and how you can apply those conservation principles in your own backyard. Expect to spend time on your hands and knees getting to know the flowers. Hand lenses will be provided. Suitable for ages 12 and up.

Saturday, May 25, 9:00 am - 11:30 am

Ever wonder why forests are so green? Why Snowshoe hares
change color? Or why butterfly wings shimmer? For this trip
we’ll start by reviewing some of the basic biology, evolution and adaptation of different species and physics of color production and vision, then head out into the Sanctuary to look for examples of the startling array of colors in nature. Suitable for ages 16 and up.

Saturday, May 25, 9:00 am - 11:30 am

As you are enjoying a leisurely stroll along Hidden Brook
boardwalk, you observe many wonderful aspects of the natural
world; white cedars, red squirrels, Labrador tea, and goofy
looking white “trees” held together with black duct tape. These
are the HOBOs of The Ridges. An explanation of these critters will be provided, including a visit to research plots, explanation of the HOBOs and data collected, the goals and components of a restoration process, and a trip to the lab to look at various pieces of the restoration research puzzle. This experience will include a short hike down the boardwalk, brief slide presentation, and fun in the lab. Suitable for ages 16 and up.

Saturday May 27, 9:00 am - 11:30 am

This workshop is geared towards private landowners who want
to learn about and implement environmental conservation
and stewardship practices on their property. Join Ridges’ Land
Manager Sam Hoffman at the Logan Creek Preserve as we
wander down the trail and discuss local management issues,
such as forest health and invasive species control, and learn
about what tools and resources landowners can use to protect
and restore their natural areas. Suitable for ages 18 and up.

Saturday, May 25, 9:00 am - 12:00 pm

Let’s keep improving our Door County tree-planting and
reforestation efforts! Join Lakeshore Natural Resource
Partnership and the Climate Change Coalition of the countywide “Big Plant” project to discuss the goals of this annual effort to plant over 10,000 trees in Door County. We will meet at Baileys Harbor Town Hall for a short presentation, then travel to a restoration site in the Greater Bailey’s Harbor area and discuss tree-planting efforts over the last couple of years. We will assist with tree maintenance such as watering, staking,
and fencing and help analyze the survivorship of the trees that
have been planted. Suitable for all ages.

Saturday, May 25, Departs Gills Rock 9:00 am, Returns 12:30 pm

Come visit the Plum Island unit of Green Bay National Wildlife
Refuge! U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) staff and volunteers will introduce you to the natural history of the island and the refuge, and you’ll learn how the USFWS conserves, protects, and enhances fish, wildlife, plants, and their habitats for the benefit of future generations. To learn more about the Green Bay National Wildlife Refuge, visit fws.gov/refuge/green-bay. Suitable for all ages.

Saturday, May 25, 10:00 am - 12:00 pm

Come out to Peninsula State Park and kayak along the
picturesque Eagle Bluff. You may have hiked Eagle Trail and
stood at the base of the sheer dolomitic bluff or seen the view
from the top of Eagle Tower 250’ above the water, but we think
the best view is from the water. Learn about the geologic history of how glaciers formed this feature and the rare flora and fauna that exists here. A state park pass is required and can be purchased at park entrances. Suitable for ages 16 and up.

Saturday, May 25, 10:00 am - 12:30 pm

Head out into the sparkling waters of Lake Michigan on “Hope,” a retired U.S. Navy boat. Hope was built tough to meet high military safety standards and skipped by knowledgeable and experienced captains, so you can be assured of a safe trip.Hope will navigate the rustic shoreline of Lake Michigan whilethe narrator/first mate will share stories of the near and distantpast, of shipwrecks and lighthouses, ancient geology, andcurrent geography, and of changes to the local landscape,fauna, and flora. This trip is designed to be an overview of thismost beautiful and amazing peninsula! Suitable for familieswith kids ages 5 and above.

Saturday, May 25, Departs Gills Rock 10:00 am, Returns 1:30pm

Come visit the Plum Island unit of Green Bay National Wildlife Refuge! U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) staff and volunteers will introduce you to the natural history of the island and the refuge, and you’ll learn how the USFWS conserves, protects, and enhances fish, wildlife, plants, and their habitats for the benefit of future generations. To learn more about the Green Bay National Wildlife Refuge, visit fws.gov/refuge/green-bay. Suitable for all ages.

Saturday, May 25, 10:30 am - 12: 30 pm

Take this tour to better understand where local, organic food
comes from. Waseda Farms is a certified organic beef, pork,
egg and produce farm. The tour includes a 2-mile wagon ride
through the fields and details the history of the farm. Dress for
the weather – it can be windy and cool! Parking for the tour is in
the back parking lot by the barns/machine sheds. Suitable for
all ages.

Saturday, May 25, Departs Gills Rock 11:00 am, Returns 2:30pm 

Come visit the Plum Island unit of Green Bay National Wildlife Refuge! U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) staff and volunteers will introduce you to the natural history of the island and the refuge, and you’ll learn how the USFWS conserves, protects, and enhances fish, wildlife, plants, and their habitats for the benefit of future generations. To learn more about the Green Bay National Wildlife Refuge, visit fws.gov/refuge/green-bay. Suitable for all ages.

Saturday, May 25, 1:00 pm - 3:00 pm

Greetings! Welcome aboard our Navy Liberty Launch the“Gratitude.” She is a 40 x 12 foot vessel that is very safe and seakindly. This tour starts going west to Fincantieri Shipyard, then to shipwrecks at Bullhead. After that we will head back east where we will cover a range of current and historical points of interest. The tour eventually goes through the shipping canal to Lake Michigan where we will be treated to great photo opportunities of the Coast Guard station lighthouse as well as the pierhead lighthouse (known locally as the Red Shed). Subjects include geology, the fishery, commerce, and navigation. Suitable for all ages.

Saturday, May 25, 1:30 pm - 3:00 pm

Was Darwin the first to suggest how species evolved? Did he
actually explain the theory of evolution in his famous work Origin of Species? Does natural selection really make species the best they can be? Join us for answers that may surprise you
as we cover some basics of evolutionary biology by exploring
these and other questions. Finally, we’ll take a walk to identify
hypothetical adaptations in nature and discuss how we might
test our hypotheses. Suitable for ages 16 and up.

Saturday, May 25, 1:30 pm - 3:00 pm

​Come stare at the sun with astronomers from UW-Madison!
We will learn about how the sun works and look directly at the
surface of the sun using the proper safety equipment! (Never
stare directly at the sun with your eyes!) Suitable for all ages.

Saturday, May 25, 1:30 pm - 3:30 pm

Join us for a walk to learn about the unique natural history of the Door County Land Trust’s Heins Creek Nature Preserve. Discover the succession of Native American tribes that lived here after the last glaciers melted. Hear stories from a family member of the early settlers who endured hardships to make this their home. Hike the trail through open sand dunes and into the forest on your way to the creek. Listen to the relaxing sound of flowing water as you learn about the spawning season of trout and suckers. You might even spot a juvenile trout while you hear the fascinating story of how everything in the county flows together to make this preserve a perfect outdoor classroom. Suitable for ages 12 and up.

Saturday, May 25, 1:30 pm - 3:30 pm

Take this tour to better understand where local, organic food comes from. Waseda Farms is a certified organic beef, pork, egg and produce farm. The tour includes a 2-mile wagon ride through the fields and details the history of the farm. Dress for the weather – it can be windy and cool! Parking for the tour is in the back parking lot by the barns/machine sheds. Suitable for all ages.

Saturday, May 27, 1:30 pm - 3:30 pm

Explore the magic that is The Ridges Sanctuary. During this field trip, we will navigate the trails, explore the boreal forest, and “dip our toes” in the Ridges and Swales. We will spend time learning about the unique and sensitive ecosystems that make up The Ridges and the looming threats on this sensitive forest. This hike will be on easy terrain, and will feature opportunities to stop, sit and discuss. Suitable for ages 16 and up.

Saturday, May 25, 1:30 pm - 3:30pm

The trip will include a visit to a local stream, a part of the
Kangaroo Lake watershed, where participants will learn how
citizen scientists evaluate stream health through measurements
of water temperature and clarity, dissolved oxygen content and
the relationship of these parameters and the types of aquatic
macroinvertebrates present in a healthy stream. We’ll also visit
other areas of the watershed including Kangaroo Lake and the
headwaters of Peil Creek. Suitable for ages 18 and up.

Saturday, May 25, 1:30 pm - 4:00 pm

The spring wildflowers at Logan Creek are not to be missed! We will walk at a leisurely pace along the wildflower path to discover the hidden beauties and to ID those flowers we don’t know. After enjoying the wildflower display, we will hike the remainder of the Logan Creek trails which pass through various habitats on the way to Clark Lake and Logan Creek. The hike is a leisurely 2 miles. Sections of the trails may be muddy. Wear appropriate footwear. Suitable for ages 16 and up.

Saturday, May 25, 1:30 pm - 4:00 pm

Learn about the importance of insects in our ecosystem, as
well as insect life cycles and basic anatomy. We’ll learn how to
identify some common orders. Participants will use dissecting
scopes to get up close and personal with insects. Hand lenses
will also be provided. Weather permitting, we’ll spend a few
minutes outside and look for insects. Suitable for ages 18 and
up.

Saturday, May 25, 1:30 pm - 4:00 pm

Owned by The Ridges, the 175 acres at the north end of Clark
Lake are comprised of various habitats. Paddle along with us
and enjoy all of it from the water! We will begin at Clark Lake
and take a leisurely trip into Logan Creek. Experience this diverse community filled with many birds, shorelines full of spring flowers, and numerous aquatic plants. Glide through the pond lilies and part the bulrushes as we talk about the cultural and natural history of this beautiful inland lake fed by Logan Creek. Easy paddle. Bring binoculars and your own canoe/kayak, paddles, and PFDs. The length of the trip may vary, based on wind conditions. Suitable for ages 16 and up.

Saturday, May 25, 1:30 pm - 4:00 pm

Experience a private wetland gem protected by a Door County
Land Trust Conservation Easement. Our hike will visit forest,
ephemeral wetland, sedge meadow and shrub-carr via
boardwalks. We’ll pay attention to the strategies used by plants
and their leaf morphology in these habitats. Briefly, in the studio
at the end of the hike, each participant can make a monotype
ink print on paper of a favorite leaf or two to take home. Suitable for ages 12 and up.

Saturday, May 25, 1:30 pm - 4:00 pm

Join scientific illustrator Kathleen Garness for a two-part dive into the world of nature drawing. In the Friday morning workshop (See #59), you will learn how to construct your own nature journal. Basic supplies and archival materials and tools needed will be provided, with the handouts and journal itself that are yours to take home. On Saturday (See #59), we will explore the Sanctuary trails and observe, learn, share, and illustrate. No experience is necessary - we want you to see plants with afresh point of view! You are also welcome to bring your supplies. Participants are encouraged to participate in both workshops; however, you are welcome to participate in individual sessions. Suitable for ages 14 and up.

Saturday, May 25, 5:00 pm - 7:00 pm

The Nature of Fermentation will focus on the connection between people, the land, and their drinks. We will visit a vineyard and talk about local grapes, apples, grains, honey, and many more wild things you can ferment and how the location influences the final product. We will touch on weather and climate, geography, history, and culture and their impact on what we grow and make and how we enjoy it. Samples and discussion to follow! Must be 21 or older to participate.

Saturday, May 25, 6:30 pm - 8:30 pm

Head out into the sparkling waters of Lake Michigan on “Hope,” a retired U.S. Navy boat. Hope was built tough to meet high military safety standards and skipped by knowledgeable and experienced captains, so you can be assured of a safe trip. Hope will navigate the rustic shoreline of Lake Michigan while the narrator/first mate will share stories of the near and distant past, of shipwrecks and lighthouses, ancient geology, and current geography, and of changes to the local landscape, fauna, and flora. This trip is designed to be an overview of this most beautiful and amazing peninsula! Suitable for families with kids ages 5 and above.

Saturday, May 25, 8:00 pm - 10:00 pm

Bats, salamanders, and frogs, oh my! Join Ridges staff on
a nighttime adventure through the Sanctuary. Explore the
Sanctuary trails in the dark, stopping to observe and learn about some of the unique nocturnal species that roam The Ridges at night. Flashlights will be provided. Suitable for ages 8 & up.

Saturday, May 25, 8:00 pm - 10:00 pm

Come learn about space and see the night sky with astronomers from UW-Madison! A short talk will cover topics at the forefront of astronomy. Night sky observing through a telescope will follow (weather permitting). A park pass is required and can be purchased at the park entrance. Suitable for all ages.

Sunday, May 26, 6:00 am - 9:00 am

It’s a great time to go birding as migration is in full swing and
birds are singing! Let’s look for migratory and resident birds in
the coastal forest of Newport State Park. We’ll also spy on eagles at their nest. Bring binoculars; a limited quantity will be available. *Park vehicle admission stickers will be required for this field trip. Suitable for ages 16 & up.

Sunday, May 26, 8:00 am - 9:30 am

Take a hike through the varied landscapes of the Sturgeon
Bay Shipping Canal Nature Preserve and learn tips and tricks
to improve your cell phone photography. Local photographer,
Andrew Pirrung, will discuss settings, compositional strategies,
as well as editing and printing suggestions to get the most out
of your photos. Please be prepared to hike about a mile over
varied surfaces. Suitable for all ages.

Sunday, May 26, 8:00 am - 10:00 am

Take a look behind the scenes at Open Door Bird Sanctuary– the only facility of its kind in Door County! Besides the rare opportunity to see the ODBS raptors up close and personal in their sanctuary mews, this tour will also feature actual feeding of the raptors, a photo op with one of the sanctuary birds, and a guided trail hike highlighting the sanctuary’s various ecosystems. ODBS is a nature center devoted to raptor and environmental education. Suitable for ages 8 and up.

Sunday, May 26 , 9:00 am - 11:00 am

Come and learn about the mosses and liverworts of The Ridges Sanctuary! We’ll walk the trails and boardwalks, learn to identify some common and uncommon species, and talk about their life history traits such as life cycles and ecological niches. Hike is a slow, 2+ mile walk. Expect to spend time on hands and knees. Hand lenses will be supplied or bring your own. Wear shoes appropriate for hiking. Suitable for ages 12 and up.

Sunday, May 26, 9:00 am - 11:00 am

Are you interested in restoring and improving an existing garden plot or creating a new small flower patch to border your home? Do you desire a beautiful native environment that attracts birds, bees, and butterflies? Are you looking to conserve or restore your property and create a low maintenance, ecologically stable environment? Then this could be the program for you! Participants in this session will review the essential elements for pollinator garden success including garden design, soil management, plant selection, plant nutrition and general plot maintenance. Participants will also tour the Cook-Albert Fuller Front Gardens and receive pollinator plant seeds collected from The Ridges property to start a home pollinator garden. Suitable for ages 16 and up.

Sunday, May 26, 9:00 am - 11:00 am

Come learn about an accessible way to access nature at The
Ridges with The Ridges Action Trackchair! Demo the all-terrain,
motorized Trackchair to experience the Family Discovery Trail
and learn about how you can reserve and utilize the Trackchair
at The Ridges. Suitable for all ages.

Sunday, May 26, 9:00 am - 11:30 am

A mile of shoreline, ancient ledges, coniferous forest, a stave
church — Björklunden has it all! We’ll hike along the water’s edge, explore a 4,500-year-old ledge, visit the wind turbine and Door County’s largest solar field, and finish with a tour of Boynton Chapel, a stave church built right on the property. Suitable for ages 16 and up.

Sunday, May 26, 9:00 am - 11:30 am

This field trip lifts up voices of those who came before us,
especially early members of The Ridges Sanctuary. We will start
inside a pioneer cabin on the Sanctuary’s original property,
examining archival documents written by the likes of Jens
Jensen, Phoebe Erickson, George Sieker, and Virginia Eiefert. After 30 minutes or so, we’ll walk Winter Wren Trail, sharing quotes from people who established The Ridges, discovering how they viewed this landscape and envisioned its future. Suitable for ages 16 and up.

Sunday, May 26, 9:00 am - 11:30 am

Enjoy a pleasant meander with a geological and biological
focus at The Ridges Sanctuary’s Appel’s Bluff property. This
unique adventure will include flowers, fossils, succession, and
ancient shorelines as we access Appel’s Bluff areas off the
beaten path. Discussion will center on the historical and current
uses of this area along with observing some unique features
of this rather recent addition to The Ridges Sanctuary. The hike
will be a leisurely 2 miles on mostly trails. Some areas may be
damp. Suitable for ages 16 and up.

Sunday, May 26, 9:00 am - 11:30 am

Join Ridges Sanctuary staff at the Family Discovery Trail for a
journey through time. This family-friendly field trip will take
participants from the age of the Silurian Sea to present-day
Door County, exploring how millions of years of change have
shaped our landscape. Learn about fossils, identify rocks, and
embrace your inner geologist — just be ready to get your hands dirty! Suitable for all ages.

Sunday, May 26, 9:00 am - 12:00 pm

Phenology is the study of a natural phenomenon in relation to its surroundings and as it evolves over time. You will find that even an informal phenology project encourages a deep awareness and connection with your subject. Join us at the Cabins to create your own book, embellish it as much as you like, and put it to use recording data associated with your chosen natural subject. That data may include words, diagrams, photos, drawings, prints, rubbings, and so on, artfully entered into your book. Suitable for ages 18 and up.

Sunday, May 26, 10:00 am - 12:00 pm

See #15 for full description.

Sunday, May 26, 11:30 am - 1:30 pm

See #4 for full description.

Sunday, May 26, 2:00 pm - 4:00 pm

See #4 for full description.