mequon nature preserve - mequon, wi

I recently took advantage of a sunny March afternoon, and took a hike at Mequon Nature Preserve. Though the facilities themselves were closed due to  Covid-19 Virus "social distancing", the trails were open, and it was a great opportunity to get some fresh air and exercise.  There were others coming and going, enjoying the trails as well, but plenty of space to keep a "social distance".  Strange times.

Even so, the preserve is impressive. At 444 acres, with 6 miles of trails, the preserve includes prairie, woodland, observation towers, ponds, wetlands, and developing forest.  Returning former agricultural land to a natural state is no small task, but Mequon Nature Preserve has taken it to heart and invested hard work, and, with the help of many volunteers, planted over 10,000 trees in an effort to return forest and provide sustenance for native wildlife.  Here you will find birds, snakes, frogs, butterflies, caterpillars, fish, salamanders, and more.  Educational programs are held throughout the year, enhancing their mission to promote habitat restoration and conservation for generations to come.

In the 90 minutes I was there, I saw that Eastern Bluebirds had returned, garter snakes slid across the prairies, Red-wing Blackbirds were  calling from perches surrounding the ponds, and maple syrup was on tap within the woodland trees. Spring is waking on the preserve. Go and see for yourself. 

Fees: Trails are free admission
Hours: Trails open daily, dawn to dusk.
​Dogs permitted, on-leash.

Location: 8200 W. County Line Road, Mequon, WI (Ozaukee County)
 For more information, click here.