It's the last day of August. Not the last day of summer. Fall doesn't officially begin until September 22. Three weeks from now. But the past few days have been on the cooler side, and some of the blooms are starting to fade. It's hard not to jump on the autumn train. Out on some of my most recent nature walks I've started to notice a few colorful leaves here and there. 

But there's plenty of summer left to behold as well. The temps are expected to rise this Labor Day weekend, so it's going to feel like summer again. And, finally, some of the seeds I sowed late in the season are teasing me with buds ready to burst into flower any day now. The anticipation!

There's still so much green everywhere. I've enjoyed making bouquets from what's growing in my garden. Something new for me. It's become quite addictive. A fun challenge to go out most days and create a vase of color to enjoy or share. If what's coming really does bloom, it will be a feast for these novice gardener's eyes. 

But it's a long time until spring. Sure, we get to travel through the beauty of fall. And winter has its beauty, too. But who am I kidding? Winter lasts a long time here in Wisconsin.

​So, I'm going to have to find a way to keep my spirits up. Nature walks will help, of course. And I'm going to try to forage for some colorful alternatives to fresh flowers for arrangements to brighten the days.  Fall leaves will definitely fit the bill. I'm kind of excited, actually, to take on the challenge. Looking out at the garden I can see plenty of things that might bring some cold season beauty indoors.

And, since I planted so many of my flowers late, perhaps I'll have blooms into October, maybe beyond. Unless... 

Of course, there are other things to do. Perhaps all of the things I should have gotten done inside over the summer will take priority as the cooler days settle in. I'm liking the idea of forcing blooms  inside, too. Not something I would have considered even just a year ago.

​In the meantime, I'm going to try and enjoy these last days of summer. Savor them as best I can. Because once fall truly arrives, I can tell you, I'm all in.

There's a bit of magic in the winged creatures that visit our backyard. Although spring migration visitors were scarce this year, we have had regular visitors over the summer. Along with an occasional warbler or two.

There is a female ruby-throated hummingbird who has been a regular for the past several summers, and she has been back this year. Once in a while another hummingbird stops by, but she doesn't much like to share.  She is a beauty, and I plant a lot of flowers in an attempt to make her happy. 

Once in a while, I will be out watering the garden, or photographing some of the blooms, and I will hear a buzz nearby.  More than a few times I have turned to see her within inches of my face, just hovering in front of me.  "Hi!" I exclaim. I'm not sure what I expect her to say in return. 

​In any case, every time, every single time, she visits, it's like the first time. A complete, breathless thrill.  They were my mom's favorite bird. She always put out hummingbird feeders at her apartment, and little hummingbird trinkets and ornaments. Ever since she passed away, anytime I see a hummingbird, I feel as if she is sending a greeting. Fleeting though it might be. It's a bit of magic in the everyday.

The good news is our little ecosystem is expanding. This year we have had lots of butterflies, bumbles and other bees, fireflies, and crickets. Even grasshoppers, a first for us.

And the sounds...Cicadas buzzing on a hot day, crickets singing at night, robins calling at sunrise, chickadees, too. Splendid examples of nature's tune. Proof that if you plant it, they will come. 

No matter how difficult my day, if I am able to sit outside on the patio in the evening, and absorb the sounds and sights of the garden, I can find a sense of calm. And a sense of accomplishment, too.

What I'm hoping for now, is that my late-planted flowers bloom. That our faded flowers provide plenty of food for the birds as they migrate this fall, and that they stop by to visit this time. We really missed them in the spring. 

In the meantime, I wonder who else might show up for a visit?  Only time will tell.

The preserve includes four main habitat trails: Field, meadow, forest, and creek. Wildflowers, birds, bees and other pollinators make their home here. There are easy boardwalks, and moderate natural trails as well. Two additional nature preserves reside across from the southern end of the campus: The Cove Preserve, and Ida Bay Preserve.

I wandered a bit of each trail, as they overlap. I was hoping to see some migrant birds, and could hear them call from the surrounding trees and bushes. Eventually, I got lucky and spotted a blue grosbeak. My first-ever sighting of this beautiful bird. My photo wasn't a prize capture, but I was thrilled to get to see it in person just the same. 

Location: 2041 Michigan Street, Sturgeon Bay
Trails are open every day, no charge

Collins Learning Center:
Monday-Friday: 10am - 4pm, Saturday: 1-4pm
​Sunday: Closed

The main campus also includes an Astronomy Center and the Star Garden dark sky viewing area, including a planet walk and observatory. 

Since the moon was nearly full during my visit, there weren't any dark sky viewing events. I had trouble figuring out where the dark sky viewing area was along the trail when I visited a couple nights earlier, so I was glad to find it during my daytime visit. 

​The trail leading to the viewing area features signage along the way about the planets in the Milky Way Galaxy.

​Viewing events are held on-site by the Door Peninsula Astronomical Society. Viewing nights are free and open to the public.

​Locatioon: 2200 Utah St.,
​Sturgeon Bay​

Also on-site is a bit of history, by way of the Heritage Village at Big Creek.  This historical park includes 11 prominent buildings that depict the life and times of early settlers to Door County.

Buildings include a general store, a one-room schoolhouse, a village chapel, blacksmith shop and more.  Some of the buildings were moved to this location and refurbished or reconstructed.

​They include many original furnishings and artifacts, and provide historical information of the buildings and their inhabitants. I particularly found the one-room schoolhouse interesting. Special events are held at the historical park throughout the year.

Location: 2041 Michigan Street, Sturgeon Bay
Tours are self-guided, Admission is Free
Hours: Wednesday - Sunday, 10am - 4pm (Closed Monday/Tuesday)

I do not have a green thumb. Much as I try to connect with my inner garden goddess, she remains elusive. Looking back to 2002, when I moved in with my now-husband, Joe, I recall being excited to try my hand at planting flowers and further developing the garden that he had already started. 

During our early dating days, we emailed. And he told me about planting ferns on the side of his house. About the peonies his sister gave him when he had moved in, and how they were growing. In my mind, he was an avid gardener. Certainly his sister was, she was breeding her own peony species! 

​Then I met his parents, and witnessed the garden his father had planted and cultivated in their yard. I was surrounded by gardeners.  They were inspiring. I wanted to be one.  

When we moved to the house we live in now, just a short distance from the first house, it came with a much bigger backyard, and a semi-established garden.  Some good stuff, some not so good. Plenty of creeping charlie, clover, and mint. 

But there was also lots of native purple coneflower, black-eyed susan, solomon's seal, virginia waterleaf, purple phlox, and eastern bluestar. Wildlife and pollinator friendly, blooms into autumn, seedheads as food for the birds all winter. 

There was plenty of room for more. And our goal was to create a certified wildlife habitat in the backyard. So one by one we added plants. I would keep the tags that came with the plants, and put them on a large o-ring for reference.

​The ring filled up. And a good half of the plants that I added to our garden made their way through the growing season. Then never returned.

Early in the new year, with the advent of spring on the horizon, I start to envision changes and additions to the garden. I have all kinds of ideas, Pinterest boards, bookmarked tips and tricks for native planting. I also have no memory of what is what. I don't know how anyone can look at a seedling leaf and tell you just what plant is coming up. 

​We have a lot of the same things that come up each year, good and annoying. You would think I would recall what they look like, so I know first-off in the next growing season to just pluck those annoyances out the second I spot them rising from the soil. But I always end up taking photos and using a plant identification app to determine what they are, and whether or not they can stay.  Usually it's still too early to get a good read on the leaves and stalk, so they grow further and I try again.  

Our first spring in the new yard we watched as the second tier of the garden started filling up. Things grew taller and taller. We were able to identify a few things. But some of the others we weren't sure, so we let them continue a while.

Then my husband's sister came to visit and told us we had a lot of ragweed out there. Ragweed?! Although it is a native plant, it can be very invasive, very large, and outcompetes other plants. It's also a major allergen source. 

​I pulled for what seemed like days, trying to remove it all before it went to seed. The following couple springs I did the same. So far it doesn't seem to have as strong of a hold.

Some days the dramas and necessities of life take over, and tending the garden, working on those projects, falls by the wayside. Just trying to keep up at all is difficult. This spring the migrant birds did not show up in our backyard habitat like they usually do.  That week or so when the migrants fill up our backyard never happened, and it saddens me. I was so looking forward to it. 

So, some days I avoid the garden altogether. I become overwhelmed by my lack of expertise. By my mistakes in choosing plants, or not choosing just the right spot for planting them. There is a growing movement to plant native, to garden for wildlife, and we are on board with that. We have planted many natives. But we have to work with what we have and go from there. And some days it just seems like it will never come together. 

​We attended a Wild Ones Native Gardening Tour event last summer, and it was extremely helpful to talk to other folks who have been through the process. We heard much of the same advice from all the gardens/gardeners we visited - be patient. Even if we had an unlimited budget, developing a natural habitat doesn't happen overnight. 

So, we're trying to be patient. Breaking it down into smaller projects. Container gardening on the patio, a good spot for annuals and satisfying with seasonal color. I'm mixing in some annual seeds, too, within the containers. So they will be hearty and full through fall.

​Again, there goes that false sense of natural connection to nature I keep pretending I have. Maybe it will work, maybe it won't. But a packet of annual seeds is a bargain investment, so...

I've been cleaning up two of the in-ground gardens next to the patio. Not a lot of natives in those, but we will add some in.

The hostas are doing well, and the native coreopsis are happy. We've started adding some tree stumps into the garden vignettes for design and function. They also provide a good source of insects for the birds. 

I have several of these garden vignettes to attend to, and a lot of weeding in my immediate future. I'm hoping that as each project moves forward I'll feel more positive vibes, and a sense of accomplishment. Something good to reflect on while I'm soaking my weary muscles after weeding and planting all day.

​And maybe, as summer progresses, the blooms of my labor will appear. And maybe, come fall, so will the southbound migrant birds as well.

My third day exploring Door County had a forecast of art, nature trails, lighthouses, and a wee bit of shopping. The first stop was brief, but scenic - taking in the view of the lake from George K. Pinney County Park. 

Located along Sturgeon Bay, the park features an open-air shelter with picnic tables, multiple parking spaces for gazing out at the lake, a public boat launch, fishing pier, and restrooms. 

At one time, beginning in the 1890's, the largest limestone and gravel quarry operated on the property, and featured the largest dock in the county as well. Today large limestone walls remain in the landscape, looking strong and sturdy against a bright blue sky.  The park is a notable location for watching the sunset, too.

Location: 4879 Bay Shore Drive, Sturgeon Bay
​Open Daily: 6am - 9pm

Next up: a little late breakfast/early lunch on the go.  I headed north again, and stopped at the Door County Coffee & Tea Cafe and Shop. 

If you're into brewing coffee at home, they have lots of Door County Coffee flavors ready to take with you. If you're doing some gift or souvenir shopping, they've got you covered. And if you're hungry, the cafe has a delicious menu to choose from. Dine in or get it to go. Under blue skies you can enjoy your meal out on the patio. 

I ordered an iced latte and a gourmet grilled cheese sandwich to go. Both were quite tasty.  Note: they even have a drive-thru!

Location: 5773 Hwy 42, Sturgeon Bay
Open Daily: 7:30am - 4pm

Post-latte, I was in search of art. If you're looking for art galleries, Door County has plenty to choose from. I had heard about Plumb Bottom Gallery a few times over the last year or so.  They have three locations in Door County. I opted to check out their original location, situated on 20 acres at 4999 Plum Bottom Road, in Egg Harbor.

The natural setting is so peaceful, and displays many of their outdoor art pieces beautifully. Near the entrance is a gorgeous pond and water fountain. Upon my arrival I watched an American Redstart, American Robin, and a Cedar Waxwing take turns in the  pond waterfall.

A few cafe tables and chairs are scattered around the pond, so I took a seat for a few minutes just to absorb the atmosphere. Art and nature. Works for me. 

​Turns out there is a rental property on the premises as well. So, if you're looking for a unique location to stay while visiting Door County, check it out.

Stepping inside the gallery, there is a wide variety of art. Original paintings, jewelry, pottery, glass designs, many with birds and other nature themes. Lots of artful inspiration to be found here.

Locations are also open in Fish Creek and Downtown, Egg Harbor.
​
Open Daily, though hours vary by location. 

I had plans to check out the writers nature trail at Write-On Door County in Fish Creek, but on the way I got sidetracked for a short time at the Wood Orchard Market.

Souvenirs, garden decor, local produce, wine, cheese, homemade jams and other tasty treats can be found here. I browsed around for a bit, picked up a couple garden art items, and headed on my way. 

The market appears to be a popular stop for locals and visitors alike. I highly recommend it.

Location: 8112 Hwy 42, Egg Harbor
Open Daily: 9am - 5pm

After so much driving, it was time for a walk. I finally arrived at the Write-On, Door County writing center and campus in Fish Creek. The center officially opened in October, 2020, though the concept of the center began as far back as 2011. Over the next decade writers workshops, retreats, and conferences developed. The center is open to all visitors. Reservations are required for workshops, classes, or readings. Events are scheduled throughout the year.

I was there to check out the 1-mile looped nature trail behind the center, and to do so incorporating the "Hike & Write" booklets provided by the center. There are five different booklets/themes available at the start of the trail. Each contain writing prompts to draw you in to the natural surroundings with an observant eye.  I chose books I and V, and filled them out as I walked along the trail. 

The trail itself is an easy one, and so lovely. I, however, should have heeded the presence of a can of insect repellent in the booklet kiosk, and used it.  The mosquitoes were ferocious! So, fair warning. Even so, it was still a beautiful walk. I hope one day to be able to attend one of their workshops or retreats. 

Location: 4210 Juddville Road, Fish Creek
​Walking trails are open daily, sunrise to sunset.
The writing center is open 10am - 3pm, but closed on Tuesdays

Last November I toured nearby Peninsula State Park, checking out several of the iconic views throughout. However, I somehow missed a stop at the historic Eagle Bluff Lighthouse. 

With plenty of sunshine left in the day, I drove to the park to check it out.  Stepping out of the car, the fragrant perfume of lilacs filled the air. There is a big lilac tree next to the lighthouse. Every bit of breeze carried the scent. It was heavenly!  

The Eagle Bluff Lighthouse is constructed of cream city brick, and was first operational in 1868. Although it is no longer occupied, the beacon of light it provides to travelers on the waters of Green Bay shines on to this day. Every day of the year.

It resides on a bluff 76 feet above the sometimes voracious waters below. Unfortunately, the museum was closed during my visit. However, it is the only lighthouse in Door County open to visitors.  If you are interested in touring the inside of the lighthouse, check the schedule to be sure it is open when you plan to visit.

True to form, I was too late to view the artworks inside The Hardy Gallery in Ephraim. I did, however, get to see the iconic building it calls home. Historically known as the Anderson Warehouse, the gallery building has been in use as an art gallery since 1962, when it was founded by the Peninsula Arts Association.

The gallery was named for Francis Hardy, a summer resident of Ephraim for 30 years, who had a passion to develop an appreciation for the arts within the community. It has since been an inclusive staple in the art community of Door County.

The warehouse, as it stands, is the third incarnation, as the first two buildings were destroyed by storm, and by fire, respectively. The tradition of writing visitor names on the exterior walls of the gallery reaches back to the early days, when steamers would arrive to the dock, and sailors would commemorate their arrival (or survival at sea) to Ephraim by signing their names and ship numbers on the walls of the building. This graffiti tradition continued through generations, and the different versions of the building, and continues today. An ongoing art project, and visitors are welcome to be a part of it!  

The gallery also encourages the public to participate in the annual Community Mosaic Project. A mosaic is created inside the gallery with approximately 300 6x6 canvases, created by members of the community.

The canvases are provided free of charge. Once on exhibit, the canvases are sold for a donation of $35 each. Sales will help to fund the non-profit Hardy Gallery, a public charity. This year the exhibit will run from July 14 to August 27.  

Location: 3083 Anderson Lane, Ephraim
Admission is Free.
The gallery is wheelchair and stroller accessible.
​
Hours: Monday-Saturday 10am - 5pm, Sunday 12pm - 5pm (In Season)

After absorbing all this hiking, history and art, I was hungry!  I decided to visit the aptly named Summer Kitchen Restaurant, just outside of downtown Ephraim.

Walking up the steps to the restaurant is like entering a botanical garden. There were flowers blooming everywhere. I took a seat on the open-air porch, and enjoyed one of the days special entrees, chicken chimichangas. I washed it down with a non-alcoholic brew. I was hungry, and thirsty, and then I was full.

Location: 10425 N. Water Street (Hwy 42), Ephraim  
Open Daily: Monday-Saturday 7am - 8pm,
​Sunday 7am - 3pm

I knew it would be hard to improve upon the sunset at Ellison Bluff, from Day 2, but there was still daylight left, and I wanted to relax and enjoy a bit of sunset before retiring to my room for the night. I remembered seeing a lakeside park in Sturgeon Bay as I traveled through town, so I headed back that way.

​Sunset Park is a 41-acre park along the shore of Sturgeon Bay. Amenities include a half-mile walking/jogging/biking trail, pickleball courts, a basketball court, two tennis courts, a swimming beach, boat launch, 9-hole frisbee golf, and two children's playground areas.

​I was mostly interested in the park benches facing the bay, and the oncoming sunset.  I took a few photos of the surrounding area, and then had a seat and watched the seagulls bicker and fly, and then enjoyed watching the sun as it settled down to rest. Not as much drama as the night before at Ellison Bluff, but lovely and peaceful just the same. 

​When it was done, I packed up my things and headed back to the motel. Where I settled down to rest, too.

Location: 747 N. 3rd Avenue, Sturgeon Bay

Heading north, just ten minutes from Motel57, in Sturgeon Bay, you will find a blooming sanctuary of birds, flowers, and plants: The Garden Door.

It was the perfect place to start my adventures on day 2 of this Door County trip.  These beautiful gardens are designed and maintained by members of the Door County Master Gardeners Association and reside on land owned and operated by the University of Wisconsin Peninsular Agricultural Research Station. 

From the charming wooden gated entrance, I stepped through into meandering brick and crushed gravel paths, to view more than 15 different gardens. A wide variety of garden species are covered including: a cactus garden, pollinator garden, peony garden, grass garden, herb garden, and a faerie garden, just to name a few.

I was surprised, this early in the season, how much blooming was going on.  Being the first weekend in June, after a less than stellar spring, I didn't expect to see so much in flower.  I can imagine how brightly this garden will shine in the heart of summer.

There are art displays tucked in throughout, including mosaic benches created by local artists, a garden kaleidoscope by Door County artist R.C. Anderson, and a memorial garden that sits at either end of an open air tunnel decorated with blown glass artworks. 

As  I wandered the garden paths, I watched as a song sparrow sang from tree branches, swooped down to gather insects and seeds, and disappeared into an evergreen where calls from sparrow fledglings rang out.  They suddenly grew quiet, then mama sparrow emerged once again to forage for her young.  For a time I was the sole human walking through the garden. A bit of paradise to start my day. 

Location: 4312 Hwy 42, Sturgeon Bay.
​The gardens are open daily, dawn to dusk.
Admission is free, donations are happily accepted.

Some things are worth repeating. Leaving The Garden Door, headed to my afternoon destinations, I stopped for an iced latte and some freshly made beignets at The Big Easy.  I had a delicious breakfast there when I traveled The Door back in November (2022), and looked forward to enjoying those tasty beignets again.

They did not disappoint. Whether you want a full breakfast, or some pastry and a bit of caffeine, The Big Easy is definitely worth a stop.  A word of caution: beignets aren't the easiest treat to eat while driving. You will end up with powdered sugar everywhere. But it's worth it.

The Big Easy is located at 7755 Hwy 42 in Egg Harbor. Open 8-2, closed Tuesdays.

Next up, I was island bound.  Washington Island, that is.  A remote island of natural beauty, local businesses, and year-round residents, Washington Island is only reachable by ferry. The Washington Island Ferry will carry you, and your vehicle or bicycle, across "Death's Door" to the island in about 30 minutes. 

I arrived just in time for the 3pm ferry. Where did the day go? No matter, I would soon reach one of the top items on my Door County wish list. My first ever trip on the Washington Island Ferry with my car, and they had me parallel park on deck!  A deep breath or two and it was done. Then I got out of the car to watch the many surrounding islands go by as we crossed the lake to Washington Island. 

I wandered back and forth along the deck, spotting cormorants, seagulls, and pelicans flying over the lake. From the ferry I could see, just barely, across the waves, Pilot Island. It looked  desolate, almost barren, from a hazy distance.

I was told by a fellow passenger that it is mainly inhabited these days by wildlife, particularly migratory birds, gulls and cormorants.  It is part of the Green Bay National Wildlife Refuge. An old lighthouse, and brick fog signal building, are the only two standing buildings left on the island. It is not open to the public at this time, but is the subject of differing opinions.

Some want migratory birds to remain protected on the island, others want to revive the island for its historical context, and have concerns about the number of cormorants on the island and the effect on the local fishing industry. Presently it looks like the USFWS (U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service) is looking into doing a study on the cormorants and their affect on the habitat.

There are about 35 islands in the surrounding Door County peninsula, however only a handful are currently open to the public. 

Once docked, the cars drive off the ferry and go on their way.  My first stop was for something cold to drink at The Red Cup Coffee House. Inside you'll find a variety of coffeehouse drinks, snacks, and ample shopping of artfully crafted, locally made items. 

Right next door is Fair Isle Books, a charming local book shop that features many local (Wisconsin) authors, and a variety of fair trade jewelry and other gift items. The staff at Fair Isle Books were so welcoming! I could imagine spending a great deal of time browsing their offerings. Should I return to Washington Island, I'll definitely go back. They have an online store as well.

​Located at 1885 Detroit Harbor Road

Although I had several spots on the island on my list, I had just over an hour before I had to board the last ferry of the day for the return trip. Better planning next time...in any case, two of my top destinations were the Stavkirke, a church built on the island as both a replica and tribute to the island's Scandinavian heritage; and Schoolhouse Beach Park.

The development of the intriguing Stavkirke began in 1991, and was a project undertaken by the men and women of nearby Trinity Evangelical Lutheran Church. The name of the church refers to the style of construction, using vertical posts (or masts) throughout the church, and ship-like construction throughout the entire structure. Be sure to step inside to take in the beauty of its interior design.

The church is fully operational, offering services for many occasions to local members. It is open 24 hours a day for public visitation and meditation as well. You can attend an evening service on Wednesdays, at 7:30pm in July and August.

​Location: 1763 Townline Road

The first thing I noticed entering Schoolhouse Beach Park is that it's surrounded by woodlands. Reaching the parking lot, I looked out to see Lake Michigan and the scenic beach through a grove of cedar trees, with picnic benches and standing grills scattered about. The shade of the trees should be a blessing on hot summer days.

Reaching the beach the scene is unique. Instead of a typical sandy beach, layers and layers of smooth, white, limestone rock make up the landscape. A result of glaciers thousands of years ago, these smooth, polished rocks are a rarity.

As I scanned the shoreline, up and down the beach, towels and blankets were scattered on the rocks, along with beach chairs, picnic lunches, and more. The water beyond the rocks is an inviting color palette of greens and blues, and dotted with swimmers.

There may be a compulsion to take home a few rock souvenirs from a day at Schoolhouse Beach. Best think twice, as it is illegal, and will result in a hefty fine. If you find one you admire, a photo is free.

Location: 1860 Schoolhouse Beach Road

I made it back to the ferry just in time to catch the last mainland-bound trip of the day. Once across the water, I headed to Newport Beach State Park.

A prime dark sky viewing location, I had hoped to experience the nighttime beauty.  But I was hours early, and the full moon would diminish the galaxy viewing.

​So, instead, I walked down to the beach, took in the view, and did a little wandering along the shore, bare feet in sand.  It was a very warm, sunny day, and the water felt so good!  And it was so peaceful!

​I watched as families arrived for late afternoon picnics, and headed toward the beach, kids excited to swim. 

Location: 475 Cty Hwy NP, Ellison Bay
Wisconsin State Park sticker required.

Where to next? Leaving Newport State Park there was about 90 minutes of daylight left. How I appreciate the extended daylight of the spring and summer seasons!  I headed back south along Hwy 42, towards Sturgeon Bay.  But I didn't get far. Earlier in the day I had passed a sign at a crossroads directed to Ellison Bluff County Park.  Returning, I passed the sign again.

​About a mile down the road I made a u-turn and headed back. Here was the perfect opportunity to witness a sunset on Ellison Bay.  In my day to day life, sunset viewing usually clashes with other responsibilities. Today I would take advantage, and make it count!

I took the turn and headed towards the park along the bay. Entering the park I oohed and aahed to myself, how lovely the drive in. How green. How lush. I followed the road until I came to a sign directing me to the scenic overlook, pulled in and parked.

All gathered, one by one, along the wooden viewing deck, down the stairs, on park benches, and on the wire fenced viewing deck below.

There we were, in the quiet, peaceful dusk, witnessing the sun go down on another day.

​A grand finale to a sunset, and to an adventuresome day in Door County.
​
Location: 12050 Ellison Bluff Rd.

My first trip to Door County, last November, was a quick journey through some of the most popular nature spots in the area. In the rain. My second, most recent trip, was a very different experience. The weather was warm and sunny, and more features and amenities were open for business.

This time out I also had a wish list, and I also had a great deal more daylight to work with. So, from morning to dusk I spent three days traveling up and down Highways 42 and 57, and enjoying a hefty serving of what Door County has to offer.

If you've never been to Door County, know that Highways 42 and 57 are the two main roads you can travel to get just about anywhere. Hwy 42 leads you to Sturgeon Bay, in southern Door County, where it splits off, with Hwy 42 following the west side of the mainland, and Hwy 57 the east.  Both sides look out on water - Green Bay to the west, Lake Michigan to the east. 

First on my wish list this trip was The Ridges Sanctuary in Baileys Harbor. Founded in 1937, as Wisconsin's first land trust, the Ridges features one of the states most biologically diverse ecosystems. Home to a rich variety of plants, birds, and insects, the topography ranges from open beach to forest, and features an amazing boardwalk experience. If you're looking for peace and beauty, this is a good place to start.

I arrived early evening, but after closing time, so I was not able to visit the nature center. The trails, however, are open daily, dawn to dusk. A $5 trail fee is requested. A donation box is available at the trail entrance.

​For the most part, at this time of day, I had the Hidden Brook Boardwalk pretty much to myself. Just me, the mosquitoes, and the calls of frogs in the wetlands, and woodpeckers and songbirds resonating from the treetops. The light through the trees was lovely, and the boardwalk was a  winding, easy trek.

After a long day of travel, and a peaceful walk along the Hidden Brook Boardwalk, I headed to the Blue Ox, in Baileys Harbor.  A friend recommended it to me as a dinner option.

​True to form, I arrived after the kitchen had closed, so I had an appetizer of tasty, fresh Wisconsin cheese curds, and a cold pint of Spotted Cow from a seat on the outdoor patio, watching the swallows trace swirls in the sky with their wings, and enjoyed the quirky ambience of a spot favored by the locals. 

Heading out after my quick dinner break, I spotted an intriguing view from the road, off towards the lake.  I made a quick u-turn and went back to  explore Anclam Park and Beach. 

​This quaint Baileys Harbor park features a cozy, sandy beach, and a short peninsula surrounded by Lake Michigan. 

​The drama of sunset had passed, but the twilight views were lovely, and it was a quiet and scenic view along the shore. A perfect spot for an easy evening stroll.

Dark sky viewing is to be spectacular in Door County. Within Sturgeon Bay there is a dark sky area within the Crossroads at Big Creek nature complex. 

The Leif Everson Observatory is located there, and offers free events for night sky viewing. Though there was a nearly full moon, and galaxy viewing would be limited because of the brighter sky, I decided to try and find the observatory anyway. Maybe I would get lucky.

I did find it. Though I couldn't locate the Star Garden area for dark sky viewing. I would have to come back during daylight hours to get a better feel for the layout.  Since there was a bright moon, there weren't any stargazing events going on that night, so I was the lone person there.

​In the mostly dark. I took a few minutes to admire the moon, then headed to the motel for the night.

Lodgings this trip were at the same Motel57 I stayed in last November.

Located in Sturgeon Bay, it made sense to stay where I was comfortable, prices were reasonable, and it was easy to navigate from each day.

​I thought the writers theme of the room was rather fun, and the retro vibe of the motel overall just works for me.

When I took my first wander through the Eagle Nature Trail I was impressed with the small community preserve. It resides behind the Alice Baker Memorial Library, and the trail leads the way to Eagle Elementary School.  After my first afternoon on the trail, I stopped in to the library to see if there was any information available about it.  As luck would have it, I spoke with Alli Chase, Library Director, and she filled me in on the history of the trail, and to how the local community came together to turn a dumping ground into native prairie and prime natural habitat for humans and animals alike.

Since that first day, I've been back several times. To celebrate the addition of a kaleidoscope art installation, take a nature journal writing workshop with author Laurie Lawlor, and, recently, to celebrate the publishing release of Laurie Lawlor's book on the true story of how the trail came to be–RESTORING: Prairie, Woods, and Pond. How A Small Trail Can Make A Big Difference.  

The event was well attended, and Laurie's reading of one of her favorite sections of the book was captivating. Dawn-Marie Staccia, a local photographer whose photos appear throughout the book, joined Laurie to personally sign copies.

​The book, written for children 10-14 years of age (and naturalists of any age), explores the history of the area as far back as the glacial age onward, and tells the tale of restoration from the beginning to current days. Along the way Lawlor  introduces the many local residents, including teachers and school children, who played a large part in the restoration. 

The trail serves as an outdoor classroom for students of the school, and the children are eager to participate in weed pulls, and planting of new plants and trees.

​Their discoveries of local wildlife include frogs, salamanders, and deer. They also enjoy snacking on the tasty wild raspberries that grow along the edge of the woods.

​Lawlor expressed in her talk how important local community projects like the Eagle Nature Trail are, particularly in this time of climate change. Collectively working for change that benefits the natural environment is good for us all, humans and wildlife.

​Working together locally we can see the differences first-hand, enjoy the beauty of our surroundings, and taste the fruits of our labor - like wild raspberries.

​

Copies of the book were for sale at the event, with a portion of the proceeds going towards the upkeep and ongoing projects of the trail. One recent project was adding signposts to the entrance of the woodland walking trail.

Those purchasing a copy of the book also received a packet of native plant seeds from the Prairie Moon Nursery, for creating their own pollinator garden, and the opportunity to speak with both Laurie and Dawn while having their books signed.

Copies of RESTORING: Prairie, Woods, and Pond. How A Small Trail Can Make A Big Difference can be purchased from local booksellers, Amazon, and Barnes & Noble.

Every spring for the past four years, since we moved into our current house, spring migration has brought large numbers of spring migrants to our backyard habitat.

In fact, for the past four years May 10, specifically, was the day migrants arrived in big numbers.

​About 15 or more species, and multiples of each species.  Baltimore Orioles, Orchard Orioles, Gray Catbirds, Rose-breasted Grosbeaks, female American Redstarts, Great Crested Flycatchers, White-crowned Sparrows, Indigo Buntings, a Chestnut Sided Warbler, a Nashville Warbler, and more.

Even in years when the weather on that date was less than desirable, they showed up.  Huzzah!

I've been following the migration forecast every day (Birdcast.info), and my hopes would rise whenever I would see a big forecast of birds headed this way.  On the night of May 9 through early morning of May 10, over 2 million birds migrated over Milwaukee County! That's a lot of birds, folks! 

​But this year, though there were a few early season migrants that trickled in for a quick stop on their way north, May 10 was a very quiet day in the habitat. And an emotional letdown for me.  It's been a difficult spring, lots going on. And I was so looking forward to the bright spot the birds bring to my world. ​

I'm trying not to take the absence of migrant visits personally. I have talked to others who have seen smaller numbers of visitors in their backyards this year.

On the positive side, I've seen photos of lots of bird activity in local birding hotspots, so they are out there. Hopefully, when the opportunity presents itself, I'll be able to get out there and see them. 

But it does make me wonder. With the changing climate, the unusual weather patterns across the country, are the numbers declining faster?  There is much we can do to help with bird conservation, so I'm trying not to panic. I'm trying to maintain hope. And I'm going to add more native plants and shrubs to our habitat.

​Maybe they'll have time to stop by on their way back south in the fall.

Nine times out of ten, I'm out on the nature trail solo.  My husband often joins me on the weekends, but during the week, I generally explore on my own. 

​So, when the opportunity to join a guided bird hike at Forest Exploration Center on May 6 came up, I signed us up.  I'm so glad I did. A birdwatching hike at Forest Exploration Center is always worth the effort, and a guided hike is even more so.

The day, as it turned out, was cloudy and gray, drizzly. But not too cold. And, fortunately, the rain subsided just shortly before we started. Danielle Pahlisch, a local artist and naturalist, was our guide for the day.

​She began the program with a short introduction to the SOS Save Our Songbirds organization. The group is an initiative between the Natural Resources Foundation and the Wisconsin Bird Conservation Partnership. They sponsored the days Bird Migration Celebration by providing lots of information on how to locally, personally, contribute to the conservation of birds and their habitat.

Danielle presented demonstrations of simple ways to avoid bird window strikes, which result in the preventable deaths of a billion birds each year in North America. A factor in the frightening decline of our songbirds. 

The evidence of the decline of bird populations is disheartening, and overwhelming. Especially to those of us who love to watch them, photograph them, and listen to their songs. Not to mention they are a major factor in the biodiversity of the planet. 

SOS Save Our Songbirds have a mission to bring solutions to the general public. Simple acts and changes can make a huge difference to the birds in our midst, and well beyond.

​From window collision prevention, to adding native plants into our gardens and habitats, and drinking bird-friendly coffee.

​For more details on what you can do in your own home, visit their website for a wealth of useful information. 

Danielle explained some of the tools of the birdwatching world: binoculars, a bird identification guide, a notepad or phone for making a checklist of birds seen; and the benefits of being citizen scientists and reporting checklists of the birds seen in a specific area (or "hotspot") to Ebird.org (online or via app).

When witnessing a bird, sound counts, too.  You may not actually see clearly (or at all) a bird, but if you have heard its call or song, you can identify it that way. By ear, or by recording it and using the recording to identify it via apps designed to do just that (Merlin). How cool is that?

Of course, a camera is a welcome tool, too, especially if you enjoy photographing the birds that you see. Though sometimes the photos are just a blur of action. But that's the challenge. :)

Next, we hit the trail. The main trail at Forest Exploration Center is a 1-mile, all accessible, crushed gravel loop. A mostly easy walk, with a slight slope. Once within the the forest we are surrounded by trees: large oak, maple, ash, and basswood trees, along with a dozen or so other species native to the region.

The large oaks are king when it comes to supporting the biodiversity of the forest. Even the stems of an oak leaf are longer than other leaves, and can serve as a sturdy perch for resident and migratory birds.

​They support more moths, butterflies, and insects than any other tree species. In turn, providing shelter and food sources for more birds and animals than any other tree species. They also have been known to live upwards of 200 years, some to a ripe old age of 400 years!

Danielle explained that a portion of the outer perimeter of the Forest Exploration Center is in the process of being turned into an arboretum, which includes some trees not native to the area.

​An experiment due to climate change, with the installation of some trees that are native to warmer regions of the United States.  With monitoring over time they will be able to track whether or not the non-native trees might thrive in, and benefit, the changing ecoregion.

Moving through the forest, Danielle pointed out the beautiful educational kiosks that line the walking trail. The signs are updated throughout the year to highlight various seasonal changes, wildlife visitors, trees, and plant life.

​If you're walking the trail, take some time to appreciate the wealth of interesting information the displays provide. Walking through the forest in spring, you'll find many highlights about the birds that can be found within the habitat. 

Birds can often be found skirting across the forest floor, in search of insects and seeds for food. Fallen trees may no longer be living, but they are filled with life. Fungus, insects, nooks and crannies where small critters can perch or take shelter.

We took some time to search among the brush piles, and fallen trees and shrubs for tiny, feathered beauties. Danielle introduced one of the younger birders to a birds-eye view of a cardinal with a pair of binoculars.

In early spring, before all the trees have fully leafed out, you can spot last years nesting spots. Danielle pointed out one such bird nest, way up high in a tree branch along the trail.

​And then a few other highlights, including spring woodland plants like jack-in-the-pulpit, and great white trillium blooms, one of springs first woodland flowers. 

​And, hidden, up high on a tree, a flying squirrel nesting box. Did you even know we had flying squirrels here? We do!

Arriving at the end of our hike, we had spotted several birds, some migratory, some resident. By ear we had discovered a great crested flycatcher, in the brush pile a red cardinal, and a hermit thrush. Overhead a red bellied woodpecker was spotted, a yellow-rumped warbler, an American goldfinch, a chickadee, and a blue jay. For a late afternoon hike, and a gray day, it was a good list. And a walk in the forest can't be beat, at any time.

​Thanks to Danielle, and the rest of her crew, for an excellent hike! We'll be back!