woodland dunes nature center & preserve - two rivers, wi
Located between Two Rivers and Manitowoc, Woodland Dunes Nature Center and Preserve is over 1500 acres of hardwood and conifer forests, wetlands, and prairies. Known as one of the regions top birdwatching sites, it is vital habitat for resident and migrating birds, bats, butterflies, and home to other amphibians and mammals as well. Over 400 plant species have been identified throughout the 14 ridges and swales existing here. Beginnings of the center can be traced back to 1965 when a local resident began a licensed bird banding catch and release program, and progressed over the decades to become the nature center and preserve it is today. For more of the history, check out the background on the center here, and here.
As an introduction, I decided to visit the boardwalk trail, which extends out into the marsh in a unique this way/that way bend, with additional boardwalk loops and viewing stations. I spotted several migrating sparrows darting in and out of the tree snags and marsh grasses. The boardwalk ends where the West Twin River flows through the marsh. Migrating geese could be heard calling as they flew overhead, the sound of Sandhill Cranes calling in the distance, too. The boardwalk also offers a scenic view back towards the nature center, the barn, and the overlook tower. At just about a mile, the boardwalk trail was an easy walk, and lovely in the waning afternoon sun.
Other features include a butterfly garden, a prairie trail, and multiple trails adjacent to the center. A portion of the Ice Age Trail intersects with the Goodwin Road trails. The Conifer Trail, within a mixed hardwood forest, follows two ancient beach ridges, and is located just two blocks from the center, on Columbus Street. Overall, there are more than seven miles of trails at Woodland Dunes. The Trillium Trail is open to skiing in winter. Hiking and birdwatching are open year-round.
The Nature Center provides educational programs to both families and school groups. Summer camp opportunities, and other programs are available between April and October. There is a children's garden/play area at the front of the center.
Nature Center Hours: Monday-Friday 9am to 4pm, Saturday 9am to noon, April through October. Closed in Winter.
Trails Are Open Year-Round, Dawn to Dusk
Parking and Portable Restroom Available
Due to the nature of the Preserve, Pets are Not permitted. However, the Ice Age Trail portion does permit dogs on-leash.
Location: 3000 Hawthorne Avenue, Two Rivers, WI (Manitowoc County)
For more information click here. View trail map here.
As an introduction, I decided to visit the boardwalk trail, which extends out into the marsh in a unique this way/that way bend, with additional boardwalk loops and viewing stations. I spotted several migrating sparrows darting in and out of the tree snags and marsh grasses. The boardwalk ends where the West Twin River flows through the marsh. Migrating geese could be heard calling as they flew overhead, the sound of Sandhill Cranes calling in the distance, too. The boardwalk also offers a scenic view back towards the nature center, the barn, and the overlook tower. At just about a mile, the boardwalk trail was an easy walk, and lovely in the waning afternoon sun.
Other features include a butterfly garden, a prairie trail, and multiple trails adjacent to the center. A portion of the Ice Age Trail intersects with the Goodwin Road trails. The Conifer Trail, within a mixed hardwood forest, follows two ancient beach ridges, and is located just two blocks from the center, on Columbus Street. Overall, there are more than seven miles of trails at Woodland Dunes. The Trillium Trail is open to skiing in winter. Hiking and birdwatching are open year-round.
The Nature Center provides educational programs to both families and school groups. Summer camp opportunities, and other programs are available between April and October. There is a children's garden/play area at the front of the center.
Nature Center Hours: Monday-Friday 9am to 4pm, Saturday 9am to noon, April through October. Closed in Winter.
Trails Are Open Year-Round, Dawn to Dusk
Parking and Portable Restroom Available
Due to the nature of the Preserve, Pets are Not permitted. However, the Ice Age Trail portion does permit dogs on-leash.
Location: 3000 Hawthorne Avenue, Two Rivers, WI (Manitowoc County)
For more information click here. View trail map here.
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