Spirit Lake Nature Preserve - Mequon, WI

These 155 acres of preserve were formerly owned by the order Sisters of the Sorrowful Mother.  Purchased by the Ozaukee Washington Land Trust in 2015, the preserve is sure to become a local treasure.  The Sisters' retreat cabin is still on the property, but not open to the public.  The preserve has a one-half mile tributary that flows to the Milwaukee River, upland hardwood forest, lowland hardwood forest with ephemeral ponds cattail marsh, fresh (wet) meadow, and a small, restored grassland.  

Wildlife seen here include wild turkeys, sandhill cranes, coyotes, deer, and bald eagles.  Wildflowers, frogs, and songbirds can be seen here, too.  This summer we found a large flock of Indigo Buntings nesting there.  Other birds spotted here are Eastern Bluebirds, Goldfinches, Robins, Flycatchers, and hummingbirds.  There are just a few parking spots available at the entrance. Vehicles are not allowed to drive straight back to the preserve. Though, to reach it from the parking lot is a very short hike.

There are no amenities on site.
Hunting is permitted on-site in season. Check here for more details.

Location: 4513 W. Bonniwell Road, Mequon, WI (Ozaukee County)
 For more information, click here.