bursting with green

Wild Columbine was in full bloom at Ledge View County Park

Well, it may be late, but spring has finally arrived in Southeastern Wisconsin, and the bursting of color onto the landscape is nearly intoxicating. One day there were buds on the trees, the next the trees were in full-leaved glory.  Spring wildflowers began to rise, and migrating birds began to arrive. Wondrous!

In March of this year, there were 180 listings of green spaces in Wisconsin on The Park Next Door. My goal was to reach 200 by the end of May.  I'm happy to say that goal was reached Memorial Day Weekend!

The last four entries definitely highlight the advent of spring and all its glory. And they prove, once again, that Wisconsin is a beautiful place to be.  From Oconomowoc, to Whitewater, Rock County, and Horicon; from nature centers and conservancies, to county parks. All of these green spaces offer peace, beauty, fresh air, and hiking trails for the wanderer in all of us.

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Rosenow Creek flows at the scenic entrance to Nature Hill Nature Center

NATURE HILL NATURE CENTER - Oconomowoc​

I ventured out to Oconomowoc recently to hike the trails at Nature Hill Nature Center.  The preserve is owned by the Oconomowoc Area School District, and is located next to Nature Hill Intermediate School. It is used by the school for outdoor/ecology education, and available to the public for trail hiking. The preserve includes prairie, forest, and some marsh area in its terrain.  The forested trails, in particular, I found very lovely.  With the advent of spring and summer the prairie soon will be.  Read More:

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A Yellow-headed Blackbird is a sight to see at Adam Birding Conservancy

ADAM BIRDING CONSERVANCY - Whitewater​​

​As a birder, especially during migration seasons, I aspire to go where the birds go.  Adam Birding Conservancy was founded in 2015 by David Adam, along with support from various conservation organizations.  It is a privately-held 331 acre mix of prairie, wetlands, and woods, along the Bark River, in Cold Spring, about three miles north of Whitewater.  They have documented over 200 species of birds within the site, along with other wildlife.

​Read More: 

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The view from the western overlook at Magnolia Bluff County Park

MAGNOLIA BLUFF COUNTY PARK - Evansville

​If you're looking for a handsome bluff view, you can find one (two, even) at Magnolia Bluff County Park, in Rock County.  This 120 acre park, just south of Evansville,  features hiking trails, horseback riding trails, and stunning views for all.  Located in the hilly western upland region of Rock County, the park features beautiful rock outcroppings and vistas.  Read More:

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Magnificent bluffs encased in spring green at Ledge County Park

LEDGE COUNTY PARK - Horicon​

I've made many trips to Horicon over the years, most often to visit Horicon Marsh. This time we made the trip to Horicon specifically to visit Ledge County Park, and it was so worth the effort! 

The park is 82 acres, and lies along the Niagara Escarpment.  This natural rock ledge divides the park into upper and lower areas, and, from the upper ledge, provides stunning views of the not too distant Horicon Marsh. Views of the beautiful area can be seen from both the upper and lower ledges.

​Read More:

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