Ledge View Nature Center - Chilton, WI

Did you know there are bat caves in Wisconsin?  There are actually caves at Ledge View Nature Center that are home to bats during the colder months of the year.  Come summer, however, the bats leave the caves and roost in the woods and trees where they breed and raise their young until fall arrives.  During these months you can actually take a guided tour of the caves.  Unfortunately, our first visit to Ledge View was too early in the season for a cave tour.   The bats are still in hibernation mode.  No worries, as Ledge View has plenty to see.  

Ledge View actually gets its name from the Niagara Escarpment, which begins in Waukesha County at Brady's Rocks, and extends through to Door County (and further east to end at Niagara Falls).  The 105-acre nature park and education center features over 3 miles of walking trails, some of which pass along the rocky outcrops of this portion of the Niagara Escarpment.

​Other features here are an arboretum, the nature center with several educational exhibits, and a 60-foot-tall observation tower. Birding is also a highlight, here.  Winter months offer cross-country skiing and snowshoeing.  Ledge View has something to offer all year long. 

IMPORTANT UPDATE: The nature center building will be closed for remodeling beginning November 2, 2024 through spring, 2025.  The grounds, trails, and nature tower will remain open to the public.  An outdoor restroom will be available.

Hours: Open Daily, Sunrise to Sunset

Location: W2348 Short Road, Chilton, WI (Calumet County)
For more information visit the park website.