Naturalist's Corner - Where Are the Swans?

November along the Upper Mississippi River National Wildlife & Fish Refuge which stretches through MN, WI, IA and IL is a hotbed of waterfowl migration. Puddle and diving ducks, pelicans, trumpeter and tundra swans, Canada geese, eagles and other water fowl spend time on the river and its backwater sloughs on their way to their wintering grounds.

The trumpeter and tundra swans that come in to rest and refuel on their way are always a big draw. There are a number of overlooks that stretch along the refuge that give a great birds-eye view of the action of the swans. 

Last year, the swan migration was well underway by November 6 when I wrote this post exploring swans' migration behavior.

But this year, not so much. The bulk of the migrating swans seem to be late. Warmer weather certainly seems to be playing a part. We have had unseasonably warm temperatures throughout late October and early November this year. 

To find out what's up, we checked this recent post from the experts at  Upper Mississippi River National Wildlife & Fish Refuge. On November 15, they posted the following on their Facebook page:

Photo: An adult tundra swan flies with two juvenile swans courtesy of Joni Welda.

"We are not sure when the peak of the tundra swan migration will be this year, the on-going warm weather has made predicting that more challenging. The eastern population of tundra swans stop first in the boreal forests of Canada, then in the Prairie Pothole Regions of the Dakotas, before arriving here on the River. The timing of their arrival depends on cold weather north of us causing bodies of water to freeze in their prior stopover sites, encouraging the birds to move on. If northern stopover sites don't have cold weather, length-of-day cues may encourage swans to move on, or they may move on when they've eaten most of their food source in these locations. We'll have to see what we see!

Recent bird sightings can be found on our website here: https://www.fws.gov/story/2022-10/recent-bird-sightings "

So be of good cheer, the larger numbers of migrating tundra and trumpeter swans are still coming. Be sure to stop at some of the listed overlooks and roadsides in the coming weeks and revel in the glory of the late fall swan migrations!

It's Cold! Let's Get Hiking! - Part 2

Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest (WI)

In Part 1, I explored gear and clothing, two components that add up to successful cold weather outdoor fun. 

Today we are going to look at how to plan hikes strategically in the colder weather and suggestions for hiking destinations in the Driftless.

While flora, fauna and fungi are tucked away during the cold and snowy weather, the bare trees allow even more expansive views of vistas and geological features so often hidden during the warmer, leaf-filled months. Brush also dies back freeing you to bushwhack and explore a bit more off-trail or hike more easily on lesser-used trails that are overgrown in the summer.

Reno's "spinal column" rocks

One strategy in planning your hikes is to think about some of the more dramatic vistas you enjoy or rock formations that you have glimpsed from trails but have never really seen as a whole. Also in the Driftless, the Mississippi River is a major migration flyway so there are exciting sights during late fall.

Another strategy is noting how cold or windy it is going to be. If you have a windy day, take note of wind direction and try bluffside hikes that take you below the rims where you will gain protection from bitter winds. Deciduous and coniferous forests can also be good choices in the wind. If you have a sunny but cold day with little wind, choose a sunnier spot for your hikes and start later in the day.

Is it time for the gun deer season? If you are in the Driftless area, the gun seasons for deer are often on different weeks from state to state. Pick hikes in a nearby state that isn't in gun hunting season (MN: Nov 9-17 and Nov 23-Dec 1. WI: Nov 23-Dec 1 and Dec 12-15.  IA: Dec 7-11; Dec 14-22).

If you think about your hiking destinations in some of these terms, you'll find an endless array of possible hikes. Here's a few suggestions to help you get started! Click on the hike title to find directions and descriptions of trails.

Migration Hotspots
November hiking affords dramatic migration action from many waterfowl including trumpeter and tundra swans. Hikes where you can look at these waterfowl or stop at an overlook on the way to see them are especially fun. So try:

Enjoying the views and spotting migrating swans
at Reno Quarry

• Reno Quarry (MN) - Stop at Brownsville Overlook to see thousands of swans, geese and ducks as they rest and eat along their migration route. The overlook is staffed the first 3 weekends of November. Then hike the quarry for the Mississippi River views and marvel at the rocks on the trail spur north of the quarry.

• Reno Spillway (MN) - If the spillway is open, take a walk right along the Mississippi River and see the thousands of ducks between the MN and WI bluffs. This hike is a gentle, flat one.

• Sugar Creek Bluff SNA (WI) - Heading south from La Crosse, stop at the Shady Maple Overlook just south of Goose Island to see swans and other migrating waterfowl. Then continue on to this Mississippi Valley property south of Ferryville and enjoy a gentle hike out to outstanding views of the river and woods.

Look Out for Those Rocks

There are so many geological formations that are hidden by trees on trails. Fall and winter are ideal times to hike trails that reveal these massive cliffs and rocks. A few trails to try:

• 

  Mushroom Rock revealed in winter!

  
  Beaver Valley State Park (MN) - The rim trails of the park are full of dramatic rocks; but so too is the trail that runs on either side of the trout stream. With leaves down, the rocks and narrow valley walls are breathtaking.

• Yellow River Forest - Luster Heights Unit (IA) This area is relatively flat with some rolling hills and magnificent views of the Mississippi River. The rocks are pretty spectacular too! This is also a great snowshoe area.

• Lost Creek Trail (MN) -  This is a fun late fall hike with great stream crossings and lovely views, not least of which is a series of towering limestone cliffs that are hidden during the growing season. The cliffs are about 2.25 miles in and make a great place to turn-around at this out-and-back hike that starts at the Ninebark trailhead.

• Greens Coulee/Savannah Oaks (WI) - This Mississippi Valley Conservancy boasts some impressive ups and downs, a view or two and a great mushroom rock formation. Invasive buckthorn makes the trail to this rock tough in the growing season but with no leaves, the rock is easily visible. It's worth the hike!

• Whitewater State Park (MN) - The Dakota trails are great for the dry part of late fall and early winter (I don't think I'd have the guts to snowshoe some parts of the narrow, sometimes eroded steep trails). The rock formations on these rim trails are amazing and a great way to enjoy the views.

Views to Die for

Ok, not really, but there are some spectacular views to be had when the leaves are off. They show a different face of familiar places and vistas that go on forever.

Paint Rock Unit of 
Yellow River State Forest

• Yellow River Forest - Paint Rock Unit (IA) - With it's high bluffs and climbing trails to get to the fabulous rim trails, cool weather is a perfect time to tackle these bluffs. The views that greet you of the Mississippi are worth the price of admission.

• Great River Bluffs State Park (MN) - Many iconic overlooks await you on these forest trails. The south trails have some steep and rolling spots so cool weather is your friend. It is another off-trail gem of a park for snowshoeing.

• Levis-Trow Mounds Recreation Area (WI) - Great shared trails that climb up and down towards the rim. Amazing vistas on these high mounds offer views of the flatter glaciated land with the Driftless area's bluffs rising in the distance. Also had amazing rock formations!

Winter Wonderland

Snowshoeing is so much fun in the Driftless. And half the fun of being on 'shoes is that you can literally go wherever you want. You can stay on trails or explore off-trail to your hearts content. I'm an inveterate off-trailer, seeking deer trails and drifts to follow.  A winter day on snowshoes is a day worth living! Try some of these:

• 
  
  Apple Blossom Overlook Park (MN) - A wonder of prairie flowers in the summer and a fun challenging snowshoe in winter. The off-trailing here is great fun . I only attempt the steep Dakota Overlook trail in winter to the little quarry and often follow the old road down to the highway. Owls await the silent.

• Mathy Quarry Snakeroot Trail (WI) - a beautiful hiking trail that winds through prairie, pines, birches and woods. A winter wonderland in the snow indeed

• Root River WMA (MN) - Lightly used, this is an off-trailing snowshoers dream. There are plenty of open areas to explore and enjoy majestic views of the surrounding bluffs. Keep an eye on watery spots.

• Halfway Creek (WI) - This wide trail is great in summer but in winter it is a snowshoeing off-trail dream. You can follow along the creek, cross the bridges and explore the other side of the winding water. Though some snowshoe on the trail, I say why bother. Let hikers have it while you live the snowshoeing dream.

Bluffside Trails Protection 

Trails along bluffsides can be great in the winter. They offer protection from sharp winds. Often these can be bike trails which are far quieter in the winter. And bikers appreciate snowshoers coming in after snowfalls tramping down trails for bikes. Try these:

On Hixon's Chicanery bike trail
Image  - Kris Lawson

• Hixon Forest Bike Trails (WI) - These trails are really delightful in winter when the snow is on the ground. You can use spikes on tamped down trails or snowshoes in fresh snow. Break it up a bit. Stinky/Chicanary. Another day do Twister/SpillHill/boB. Then try Prairie/Twister/Mr. Hyde. All of these trails are bluffside trails and offering wind protection depending on the direction of the wind.

• Hixon Oak Trail (WI) - A hike-only trail that offers alot of rolling hills. I do this one with spikes since it is well tramped down and this gives me needed traction. 

Sunshine in the Open Air

Sometimes on a mild winter day, it's nice to have some sunshine even if it is a bit weak.   Try these to catch some Ds.:

Mertes Slough snowshoe

• MacGilvray's Seven Bridges (WI)  - A lovely walk or snowshoe across six historic bridges through wetlands and woods.

• Wildwood Loop (MN) - High atop the Holzinger Trail system are these loop trails. On a sunny winter day, you get views of Winona and surrounding bluffs.

•  Aghaming Park Trail (MN) - This trail down by the Mississippi River and its sloughs is a great snowshoe. Many off-trailing opportunities exist.

• Mertes Slough (MN) -  An excellent snowshoe exploration. Make sure the ice is thick for this one. Your reward? Eagles nest, grand views and a labyrinth of possible trails.

Hope you challenge yourself to some year-round, cold-weather hiking adventures. I think you'll be glad you did!

Late fall chillaxing on a "sofa"
(fallen logs across the trail) on a MN bluff
Image - Diane Palm

All images, unless noted - Marge Loch-Wouters

It's Cold! Let's Get Hiking! - Part 1

As temperatures start their drop this month, many people head to indoor fitness centers, gyms and activity centers to get their aerobic exercise done. I do some of that too.

But, as a year-round hiker, I continue to hike/snowshoe in the cold months of November through March. I find the scenery interesting, the trails less crowded and the weather not as bad as one might expect. 

The snowshoe view from the bluffs

There are three key components to late fall/winter outdoor fun:

• the right gear
• the right layers
• strategic choices on hiking destinations

I'll look at gear and layers in this post. In part 2, we'll look at strategically choosing hiking and snowshoeing destinations as the weather turns cold, icy and snowy.

THE RIGHT GEAR

Microspikes

Bushwhacking with microspikes
Image -Lavon Court

Without a doubt, this has been the gear choice that exploded my world and really got me out year-round. Being able to get firm footing on icy trails with constant elevation changes is perfect for the Driftless area. Using spikes means I can be on trails throughout the winter even if there is no snow for my snowshoeing. I have Kahtoola brand and they wear like iron; I'm starting my 4th winter with them. They are worth every penny of their price and will keep you hiking during icy/snowy tramps. Hint: buy a size up from their recommendation - they fit tightly and it can be a struggle getting that strong rubber up and around your insulated boots.

Boots

You know when you are in inadequate cold weather boots - your feet are freezing! Keeping tootsies warm is easy when you have waterproof, insulated boots. I found a pair of Merrill hiking boots that are less bulky than my old Sorrels and are mid height. It gives my foot lots more flexibility while winter hiking, provides ankle support and keeps my feet toasty warm in even below zero temps. Best of all they work great for both hiking and snowshoeing!

Safety colors

Blaze Orange

While technically not gear, wearing blaze orange (hat, vest, overshirt, jacket) or blaze yellow during late fall/early winter hiking is a must. Many hunting seasons are occurring, especially gun seasons for deer. While you may be on private property or at a state park, those lands abut private lands and hunters often carry high-powered weapons. Being visible on the trail makes a real difference.

Leg Gaiters

Nothing is worse than getting snow in your boots especially when snowshoeing.  A pair of leg gaiters can be helpful in keeping your ankles and shins dry.  I also like the extra bit of insulation it provides my shins. My  40 year old pair of Outdoor Research gaiters is still going strong.

Snowshoes

Ever since I let go of my classic wood and rawhide-laced Iverson's and joined the modern world, I have snowshoed even more! The smaller, lighter aluminum models featuring heel lifts, crampons and insanely easy bindings really upped my snowshoeing game, especially in bluff country. My advice here: really look at the bindings and make sure they are quick enough to get into, tighten and release - it will save you seriously frozen fingers. If you are hiking up any bluffs or climbing while you snowshoe, I highly recommend making sure your snowshoes have heel lifts that can be popped up to support your heel and keep your foot flatter when climbing. Your Achilles tendons and calves will thank you!

THE RIGHT LAYERS

Pants Layers

Windproof and water-resistant are the way to go in winter. While I used to rely on thicker ski leggings, they lacked water resistance and I missed having pockets. Thanks to a thread on the Women Who Hike Minnesota Facebook page, I opted for for lightweight water and wind resistant Duluth Trading's Flexpedition pants instead. They keep me nimble and not feeling like I'm wrapped in swaths of cotton.  With a pair of long undies, I am set for just about any winter weather (true confession - I seldom venture out when the windchill is below -20F). My go-to base layers in order of warmth (light to heavy) are silk, polypro and merino wool long underwear depending on the temps. If it is wicked windy, I may combine two of these. My Smartwool Intraknit merino wool pair are super light, super warm and breathable. They keep me warm in the worst cold. Fleece or flannel-lined pants also cut the cold.

Late fall birches at Hixon

Top Layer Clothes

I am a huge merino wool fan. I use a light wool shirt as my base layer (or two if it's below zero). Then a turtle neck with a regular wool pullover sweater. The final wool sweater's weave and thickness depends on the weather and wind. That gives me plenty of warmth and options to de-layer as needed on the trail. Whether you use polypro or merino wool, that first base layer makes all the difference.

Typical gear for most winter fun
Image - Lloyd Lorenz

Jackets

Flexibility here is key depending on what weather you are going out into and if you want to be warm but not sweaty. Down vests are my go-to for most non-windy but cold days. Because I love to bushwhack when I snowshoe/hike in the cold months, I often get tears in my vests from prickly brush as I tramp. So I am a thrift store shopper for down vests which are my jacket of choice during the above-zero hikes and snowshoes. I also have a light down jacket with hood (pictured to the right) as the weather gets colder and an old but reliable Marmot hooded jacket with canvas outer shell and synthetic lining (similar to Carhart). It is monster wind-resistant and my below-zero go-to layer. 

Neck Gaiter

Rather than a scarf, I use a pull-over-my-head merino wool neck gaiter. It not only provides warmth for my neck but I can pull it up over my nose and head in a pinch. It is compact and can be stowed away in my pack so it is easily at hand.

At MacGilvray 7 Bridges
Image - Kris Lawson

I also recommend this post from This Big Wild World blog by MN's Susan Gleissner. She delves even further into recommendations on hats, gaiters, jackets and more and has some great tips and recommendations!

Late fall hiking at
Luster Heights Unit -
Yellow River State Forest

Click here to check out Part 2 of this series where we look at how to plan hikes strategically in the colder weather and suggestions for hiking destinations in the Driftless.

All images, unless noted - Marge Loch-Wouters

I Spy on the Trails - October 2024

One small area of the Big Kachina petroglyph panel 
in Bears Ear National Monument

October has been full of travel hikes. So I have been watching the trail sides in Colorado, Utah, Madison, WI and along the North Shore of Lake Superior with only a few brief hikes in the Driftless.

I’ll share a few observations and thoughts in each travel region. 

House on Fire Puebloan granaries
Bears Ears National Monument
The name comes from the unique way the sun
reflects off the overhanging rock.
Image - Linda Pole

In UT, CO and NM, we arrived at the peak of the aspen color season as well as before the cold hit other trees and plants. Our hikes were centered primarily on Ancestral Puebloan and Chacoan cultural sites and geographical features of the Southwest. We took advantage of opportunities to go on interpretative hikes that expanded our knowledge of the culture and peoples who inhabited and thrived on the land long before the appearance of Europeans. While our eyes were dazzled by the incredible geology, our minds were swept away by the petroglyphs, buildings and exploration of the ancestral and modern cultures of the Indigenous people of the region.

To my delight, in Bluff, a small community in southwest UT, the highway welcome sign says “Bluff Utah, Founded 650 AD". We seldom see communities acknowledge the precedence of indigenous ancestral people. I found great meaning in that simple statement of fact.

Image- Nola Larson

Back home in the Driftless, I took advantage of the high fall leaf color time and slightly cooler temps to hike up bluffs and mounds for great views with no sweating! My biggest surprise, during these climate-change-fueled, lingering above-normal temp days, was a friend's discovery of a blooming Jack-in-the-Pulpit on a trail in Hixon Forest (WI).  It was a sobering testament, along with unseasonably warm temps so far into Oct (70F on 10/28/24 and 82F on 10/29/24) to how our climate is warming

Just-past-dawn hike at Pincushion Mtn
to a gorgeous outlook - Grand Marais

Along the North Shore, there were still some patches of beautiful colors despite the forests being past peak. My hiking partner had badly sprained his ankle so we alternated driving adventures together with my solo hikes. 

I did all my hikes at the crack of dawn to leave time for afternoon adventures. I was alone on all the trails, and at outlooks and viewsheds. It was wonderful to find that level of solitude in parks and trails that are busy even in the off-season. I treasured that experience. 

With Lake Superior and the amazing geological formations everywhere, I didn’t need flora or colorful leaves to dazzle my eyes. I was a truly happy hiker.

What are YOU noticing on your hikes?

A month of hikes:

Hikes below in bold color or underlined have links to previous posts OR descriptions/location of the trails found online

Walking through a series
of underground storage areas
Aztec Ruins Nat'l Monument

Bluff, UT & Bears Ears National Monument

Butler Wash - Big Kachina Panel and River House

Butler Wash -Wolfman Panel 

Mule Canyon -House on Fire

Aztec NM

Aztec Ruins National Monument 

Chalk Mountains and aspens
San Juan National Forest

Pagosa Springs, CO

San Juan Mountains National Forest

Piedra River Trail

Piedra Falls Trail

Opal Lake Trail

Pagoda Springs Riverwalk

Chimney Rock National Monument

Madison WI 

Pope Farm Conservancy

A "keyhole" peep at leaves and sun through
massive rocks in Levis Trow Mounds
Image - Lavon Court

Driftless Area

Great River Bluffs State Park, Nodine MN

Upper Hixon Park, La Crosse WI 

Levis Trow Mounds, Black River Falls WI 

Dawn at Temperance River-Carleton Peak SHT trail

North Shore of Lake Superior

Pincushion Mountain, Grand Marais, MN

Split Rock Lighthouse State Park, Two Harbors, MN

Temperance River State Park, Schroeder , MN

Rock scrambling to Wolfman's petroglyph panel
in Bear's Ears National Monument UT
All my Driftless bluff hiking paid off!
Image  - Lee Coveney

Images, unless noted - Marge Loch-Wouters

Levis Trow Mounds (WI) - Troll Rock Trail

Looking thru a "keyhole formed
by massive sandstone.
Image - Lavon Court 

Well, at least I call the trail that. If I used the various segments we hiked, it would be called “ Pine Run/Upper Glen/Pine Run/West Levis/Jackrabbit Draw/North Face/Dump/Pine Run" and out! 

Somehow Troll Rock Trail seems lots simpler and recognizes the interesting geological sandstone features that looks like the bottom half of a monster troll (or two rocks kissing; this feature is also known as Kissing Rocks) - our turnaround for this out-and-back hike.

Levis Trow Mound Recreation Area near Black River Falls is a huge network of hiking, biking, skiing and snowshoeing trails that cover the mounds and hills near the end of the glaciated land that butts up against the Driftless area. These geological features, called nunataks, are said to have stood above the ice sheets and were shaped by them. 

The number of trails is truly impressive - and can be confounding until you get familiar with them. I am still in the confounded stage but I am drawn to the beautiful woods, hills and rocks here so expect I will get to know them better.

The trails vary from wide, former roads on grass to narrow dirt and rocks trails that hug the cliffsides. There are plenty of elevation changes up and down as you head towards the rim on this set of trails but nothing a pause and a quick drink or snack can’t fix!

This series of trails takes you around the rolling mound trails s and then up to the rim for some great views of the surrounding lowlands. 

Peeking around the "troll's legs"

On this particular hike, my goal was a group of massive sandstone rocks near the top that remind me of the legs of a troll. It is off a small spur on North Face. Dropping down a short, steep incline brings you to a lovely, flattish, pine needle-covered area with a number of large rocks that are great fun to explore. 

On this trip, we kept our mileage low because of time constraints but still enjoyed a great colorful fall hiking experience in a unique area. And as always we promised ourselves we'd be back to explore more!

A peek through the pines

THE HIKE
This is a moderate hike on rolling shared bike trails through interesting forested geological mounds. This 3.6 mile hike had a total elevation gain of 341 feet reaching our highest elevation at 1200 feet. There are multiple trails criss-crossing each other so an app map can be VERY helpful. The trails are well maintained, alternating between wide grass former roads/ narrow forest trails.

The Location: 

N1589 Fisher Ave, Neilsville WI   44.47676, -90.72377

The trailhead is located just about 17 miles out of Black River Falls. It features a large parking lot and building with bathrooms and a covered picnic area. Campsites are available as well. There are groomed ski trails in the winter. Bikers and skiers pay a small usage fee; hikers can use the trails for free.

All images, unless noted - Marge Loch-Wouters

Let's Get Hiking and Learning - November 2024

For more information on the trips, where available, please click on the brown event titles for a link to the program or hike. I will be updating this post periodically during November as new events are announced, so feel free to stop back!

Be sure to check often during the month with local hiking groups, universities, naturalist-interest groups, nature conservancies, nature centers and their Friends groups, state parks, US Fish and Wildlife centers and others in your area to see what's new to help you understand the natural world around you better.

Note:

For additional late October events, please click here to see last month's edition of the "Hiking and Learning series post.

Bats of Wisconsin

 - Thursday Oct 31   12:30-2pm

Upper Mississippi River National Wildlife and Fish Refuge, N5727 County Road Z, Onalaska

Let's get batty together on Halloween!!! Bats are on the move, along with our fine feathered friends. Join Master Naturalist and Bat Advocate, Kathryn Hietbrink, for a FREE presentation to learn about which bats stay to hibernate, which migrate south, and many more bat facts. Wisconsin is home to eight species of bats, many of which are found on the Upper Mississippi River National Wildlife and Fish Refuge! Bats are fascinating, very beneficial, and are at risk. Come learn how we can help them survive! There just might be a treat involved! This program will be most enjoyed by adults, but all ages are welcome. The presentation is made possible by our partners at the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources and the Wisconsin Bat Program.

Friends of the Blufflands

 - Month of November

 - People's Food Co-op in La Crosse

Friends of the Blufflands is happy to be the recipient of the People's Food Co-op "Give Where You Live" funding for the month of November. PFC shoppers have the opportunity to round up their transaction to the nearest dollar. At the end of the November, PFC will tally all the round ups and donate the total to Friends of the Blufflands. We thank the People's Food Co-op, and ask you to consider this when you shop at the People's Food Co-op. [ML-W note - The Friends of the Blufflands have been hard workers on behalf of of bluffland prairies in Hixon Forest and other Driftless areas. They do prescribed burns, invasives control, prairie seed collecting and broadcasting among MANY other tasks to keep our prairies vital. Your rounding up can make a huge difference to their work!)

Waterfowl Fall Migration Celebration

 - Saturday November 2        9:00am-11am

 - Trempealeau National WIldlife Refuge, W28488 Refuge Rd, Trempealeau, WI

Trempealeau National Wildlife Refuge is a rest stop to a diverse selection of waterfowl: ducks, geese, and swans! Meet the refuge staff members and volunteers at the observation deck as they assist with bird identification and answer related questions. Visitors can see migrating birds that are coming through the Refuge on their migration south to their wintering habitats. Spotting scopes, binoculars, and bird identification guides are available for participants. Come and join us to observe different species of ducks and other birds as they spread their wings south! *Event will be at the Observation Deck. *Stop by anytime during the duration of the event. *Due to a road construction project, participants of all fall events must access the refuge through Marshland Access Road. Sponsor: Trempealeau National Wildlife Refuge

Fall Outdoor Gear Swap

 - Sunday November 3    10 am-2:00 pm

 - Curiosi-Tea House, 901 W. 5th St Winona
Adventure lovers! Don’t let bad weather or lack of appropriate gear stop you from getting outside this year! Join us this fall at our next bi-annual Gear Swap at Curiosi-Tea House in Winona, MN. This is your chance to browse our selection of gently used outdoor gear and clothing. Make the most of your outdoor adventures! Join us for our bi-annual Gear Swap! If you have gently used gear and clothing that you would like to sell or donate, you can bring it to us a week before the sale. The Janky Gear team will take care of the selling process for you, so you don't have to worry about anything. We'd be grateful if you could drop off your items with the Janky Gear team members during the week leading up to the sale. Doing so gives them enough time to inspect and price the items before the big day. You can collect your items and drop them off at 356 E Sanborn St in Winona, Minnesota. We'll collect gear swap items on Sunday, October 27th from 1-3 pm and Monday, October 28th from 4-6 pm. If this timing does not work for you, reach out to jankygear@gmail.com to schedule a separate drop-off.    Gear swaps are a fantastic alternative to traditional purchasing and selling methods. They provide a more ethical option for selling outdoor gear because they promote reuse and reduce waste. By participating in a gear swap, you can give your unused gear a second life and ensure that it will be used and appreciated by someone else. Sponsors: Winona Outdoor Collaborative, Curiosi-Tea House and Janky Gear

Naturalist at the Brownsville Overlook

 - Saturday and Sunday Nov 2 - 3    10am-2pm

 - Brownsville (MN) Overlook

Come enjoy the fall migration! As the seasons turn colder, thousands of swans, ducks and other water birds move through the refuge, finding a place to rest, relax and refuel before moving further south for the winter. A Refuge naturalist will be stationed at the Brownsville Overlook on Saturdays and Sundays from November 2 – November 17, 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m., to help visitors identify birds and share information about the refuge and migration. Please note that naturalists’ shifts may be cancelled or end early without warning in inclement or extremely cold weather. This event is part of our 100th Anniversary Interpretive Series! The Brownsville Overlook is located about three miles south of Brownsville, Minnesota along Minnesota Highway 26. A portable restroom will be available on-site. We recommend wearing lots of warm layers! Though peak migration is difficult to predict, the best time to see the tundra swan migration is usually the second or third week in November. The swans will typically stay until the water freezes over – if temperatures stay below freezing at night, the peak of migration will be earlier in November. Warmer weather extends their stay. Recent sightings and estimates of bird numbers will be posted weekly on the refuge website as we get closer to November: https://www.fws.gov/refuge/upper-mississippi-river For more information, please call the La Crosse District Visitor Center at 608-779-2399. The Visitor Center will be open for winter hours Tuesday – Friday, 9am – 3pm starting in November. Sponsor: Upper Mississippi River National Fish & Wildlife Refuge

Women's Walk in the Woods

 - Sunday, November 10   1-3:00pm

 - Iowasota Retreat and Education Center, 2472 IA-26, Lansing IA

We're fitting in one last free walk this autumn! We plan to hike to the top of the "south bluff", which is about a 2 mile hike. The woods are lovely, and the weather is holding, so join us for this trek! We'll meet up at the SW corner of Iowisota (there is parking behind the house). RSVP requested. We'll probably spend up to two hours on a hike, but can vary the time depending on participants interest and schedule. We'll try to keep our group to under 15 people. There is no charge. For this November walk, we will probably hike up to the top of the south bluff on a well-established trail. It is a 500' elevation change from the valley to the top of the bluff. The view from the top of the bluff is lovely, even if you do need to peek through the trees. You'll want to wear sturdy shoes and perhaps bring a walking stick and water bottle. This might be our last scheduled hike for the season, though we will have some other activities throughout the winter.  Why a "women's" hike?? Linda has been involved in the Minnesota Womens Woodland Network (mnwwn.org) for many years, and learned the power and joy of women sharing knowledge of the outdoors with each other. We can capture a similar experience here. Don't worry men, there will be other opportunities when we'll welcome you. Sponsor: Iowasota Retreat and Education Center

Sand Point Bird Walk

 - Saturday, November 9       10am - noon

 - Frontenac (MN) State Park

Walk through the riparian forest and along the beach to Sand Point to birdwatch. Look for migrating waterfowl as well as resident birds of the forest, gulls, pelicans, and raptors. Great for beginning birders. You will get some birding tips as well. Bring binoculars. The trail is well maintained and flat. It can be muddy following rain. The full loop is approximately 2 miles long, but you can head out whenever you need to. No need to register. If you have any questions, email janetmalotky@gmail.com. This event is free. Meet at the Frontenac State Park Sand Point parking lot at 10:00 AM. Sponsors: Frontenac State Park and Frontenac State Park Association.

Fossil Field Trip

 - Saturday November 9      10:00 am -noon

 - Whitewater (MN) State Park

During this program we will go and look for ancient sea life that lived in the area hundreds of millions of years ago. We'll start with a brief introduction, then drive out of the park 9 miles to hunt for fossils. Bring transportation. To register or for more info, contact Jeremy Darst at 507-312-2301 or by email at Jeremy.Darst@state.mn.us. Sponsor: Whitewater State Park

Naturalist at the Brownsville Overlook

 - Saturday and Sunday Nov 9 - 10   10am-2pm

 - Brownsville (MN) Overlook

Come enjoy the fall migration! As the seasons turn colder, thousands of swans, ducks and other water birds move through the refuge, finding a place to rest, relax and refuel before moving further south for the winter. A Refuge naturalist will be stationed at the Brownsville Overlook on Saturdays and Sundays from November 2 – November 17, 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m., to help visitors identify birds and share information about the refuge and migration. Please note that naturalists’ shifts may be cancelled or end early without warning in inclement or extremely cold weather. This event is part of our 100th Anniversary Interpretive Series! The Brownsville Overlook is located about three miles south of Brownsville, Minnesota along Minnesota Highway 26. A portable restroom will be available on-site. We recommend wearing lots of warm layers! Though peak migration is difficult to predict, the best time to see the tundra swan migration is usually the second or third week in November. The swans will typically stay until the water freezes over – if temperatures stay below freezing at night, the peak of migration will be earlier in November. Warmer weather extends their stay. Recent sightings and estimates of bird numbers will be posted weekly on the refuge website as we get closer to November: https://www.fws.gov/refuge/upper-mississippi-river For more information, please call the La Crosse District Visitor Center at 608-779-2399. The Visitor Center will be open for winter hours Tuesday – Friday, 9am – 3pm starting in November. Sponsor: Upper Mississippi River National Fish & Wildlife Refuge

Urban Wildlife: Who are you living with in the city?
 - Wed , Nov. 13     10 a.m. - 12 p.m. 

  - Whitewater (MN) State Park 
Why are animals like opossums, raccoons, foxes, and turkeys thriving in human populated areas? Learn about the animals, how they are making themselves at home in urban and suburban environments, and what that means for people. This program is part of the Park's HOP program for seniors. Sponsor: Friends of Whitewater State Park

Ecological Integration: Connecting to the Local Landscape in the Driftless | with Nicholas WazeeGale
 - Saturday, November 16       9:00 am - 4:30 pm (lunch will be provided; ages 12+)
 - La Farge, WI
This class will be a philosophical and experiential exploration of connecting to the land through group activities, learning some methodical practices and observation skills, fuller use of our senses and empathy, and gaining more ecological knowledge. We will discuss the deep societal misperceptions that keep us disconnected from Nature, ways to get grounded and better connected, dig into some rich local learning from the land (including problem solving and understanding what we are seeing in the wilds), and discuss and work with some practices that can rewire us to the land and open us up to deeper understanding and connection to place. Parts of this class will be indoors and discussion-based, and parts will be spent outdoors observing and using some activities to get comfortable, grounded, and opened up to direct and enlivening experiences with the living landscape of the Driftless. Registration (on a sliding fee scale) and more information available here.  Sponsor: Driftless Folk School

Curiosity Luncheon

 - Saturday, November 16

 - Iowasota Retreat and Education Center, 2472 IA-26, Lansing IA

Let's get curious about curiosity. Did you know that there are factors in our lives that actually hold us back from pursuing our curiosity? One of those factors: curiosity can take us out of our comfort zone and into unknown territory. Join Maryann Baldwin Join Maryann Baldwin for her talk on "The Curiosity Paradox," including a meditation, reflection and journaling. It's the perfect way to rest and recharge as the holiday season approaches! We will meet in the "Gathering Room" at Iowisota Retreat and Education Center. The event will include a light lunch. Cost is donation based with a suggested donation of $0 to $20 dollars, or whatever you want to put in the basket (we're not keeping track of individual donations). Don't let concern about price keep you away. This is intended to be a fun, enlightening event. It is also a chance to check out Iowisota! Please RSVP/Register so we know who is coming.

Autumn Scents and Sights Hike

 - Saturday, November 16     2-4:00 pm

 - Holzinger Lodge, 925 West Lake Blvd, Winona MN

Join the folks at Winona Outdoor Collaborative for their free November meet-up with a hike through the Holzinger trail system, and enjoy the sights, scents, and sounds of fall. You’ll be guided by a series of prompts to help you make a better connection with nature, and the people around you on this hike. Registration required (and will open soon), Sponsor: Winona Outdoor Collaborative.

Owl Prowl
- Saturday, November16      5:00 -7:30 pm

 - International Owl Center, Houston MN

We start with a 30-minute program indoors to teach you how to identify owls by sound and the ethics of calling owls. Then you hop in your vehicle and follow the Owlmobile to about three different locations in rural Houston where Jo, our resident expert owl caller, will imitate owl calls in hopes of getting some responses. The program is capped at 30 participants, and these always sell out in advance. Cost is $10 for members and $15 for non-members. Due to the need to stand perfectly still for 10 minutes or more at a time, these owl prowls are not recommended for children under age 12. No pets, smoking or vaping allowed either indoors or outdoors. Registration required. Registration opens October 20. Sponsor: International Owl Center

Naturalist at the Brownsville Overlook

 - Saturday and Sunday Nov 16-17    10am-2pm

 - Brownsville (MN) Overlook

Come enjoy the fall migration! As the seasons turn colder, thousands of swans, ducks and other water birds move through the refuge, finding a place to rest, relax and refuel before moving further south for the winter. A Refuge naturalist will be stationed at the Brownsville Overlook on Saturdays and Sundays from November 2 – November 17, 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m., to help visitors identify birds and share information about the refuge and migration. Please note that naturalists’ shifts may be cancelled or end early without warning in inclement or extremely cold weather. This event is part of our 100th Anniversary Interpretive Series! The Brownsville Overlook is located about three miles south of Brownsville, Minnesota along Minnesota Highway 26. A portable restroom will be available on-site. We recommend wearing lots of warm layers! Though peak migration is difficult to predict, the best time to see the tundra swan migration is usually the second or third week in November. The swans will typically stay until the water freezes over – if temperatures stay below freezing at night, the peak of migration will be earlier in November. Warmer weather extends their stay. Recent sightings and estimates of bird numbers will be posted weekly on the refuge website as we get closer to November: https://www.fws.gov/refuge/upper-mississippi-river For more information, please call the La Crosse District Visitor Center at 608-779-2399. The Visitor Center will be open for winter hours Tuesday – Friday, 9am – 3pm starting in November. Sponsor: Upper Mississippi River National Fish & Wildlife Refuge

Hike Up to Eagle Point

 - Saturday, November 23   1-2:30 pm

 - Whitewater State Park

Are you looking to get out and stretch your legs without worrying about deer hunters? Then you should join us for a hike up to Eagle Point! During our hike we'll see great views and learn a lot about this amazing park. We'll investigate the parks origins, geology, and ecology during this fun 1 mile trip. Elevation Gain - 300ft. Meet at the Visitor's Center.  Contact Jeremy Darst at 507-312-2301 or by email at Jeremy.Darst@state.mn.us. Sponsor: Whitewater State Park

Free State Parks Day

 - Friday Nov 29   

 - All MN State Parks

On four days each year, all Minnesota state parks and state recreation areas offer free admission to everyone - no vehicle permits needed! Minnesota state parks are open year-round, and there's a state park within 30 miles of most Minnesotans. With a free day in each season, it's a great opportunity to get out there and explore someplace new - or visit an old favorite at a new time of year! Whether you stay for the whole weekend or just spend a few hours outside, you'll make memories that will last a lifetime. The entrance fee waiver for fee-free days does not cover amenity or user fees for activities like camping, rentals, or special tours. The goal is to encourage families and friends to spend time together in nature. Research shows many health and wellness benefits to spending time in nature. According to ParkRx, contact with nature improves one’s physical, mental, and spiritual health. Getting outdoors makes exercise more fun and can boost mood and immunity. The American Psychological Association shares that exposure to nature is linked to benefits including improved attention, lower stress, reduced risk of psychiatric disorders and even increases in empathy and cooperation. Sponsor: MN DNR

 

Naturalist's Corner - The Glory Days of Bucks

Welcome to our guest naturalist, Pamela Miller, a Minnesota Master Naturalist Volunteer and member of the Frontenac State Park Association (FSPA). Pamela is also a wickedly good fungi-finder (I am in awe of her skills ), a fabulous writer and the editor of the FSPA's wonderful monthly newsletters. This timely post from the FSPA's October 2024 newsletter on what's going on with bucks at this time of the year is reprinted with permission.  Enjoy!

A buck (8-point? 7-point?). Look at that overthick neck!
We’re guessing he’s been busy lately. / Photo by Earl Bye

It’s been a while since we wrote about the animal we see almost daily in the park, and which we sometimes take for granted – the white-tailed deer. About one million of them live in Minnesota (and we know, we KNOW, thousands have invaded your garden when they’re not out darting in front of your car).

We’ve written about the white-tailed deer’s gestation, birth and early lives, adding cute fawn pictures to charm you into forgetting about that little business with those night-visiting deer and every single one of your hostas and vegetable and fruit tree blossoms (yeah, sorry, man).

This time of year brings the other end of the life cycle for many deer – in particular, bucks.

Minnesota’s deer-hunting culture remains strong – a good thing, since it keeps deer herd numbers to a manageable level so starvation and disease don’t call the shots.

But now, just a few weeks before the November deer-hunting season begins, fascinating and sometimes seemingly whacko things are happening to the bucks we’ve watched grow from fawns to yearlings to heavy-headed goofballs whose days, in many cases, are numbered. What’s going on with them?

According to the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, by late October, bucks are in the rut and notably aggressive, sparring with other bucks, hapless trees, and whatever else gets in the way of their testosterone-addled vision (that could be you, Mabel – don’t be sidling up to handsome, staggering bucks this time of year with your fancy little cell phone camera).

Love-hungry bucks scrape the ground with their front hooves and mark it with their aromatic urine; wallow in mud or dust to share their (surely very attractive to someone, something, somewhere, not you or me, Mabel) scent, and compulsively rub their antlers on tree trunks to build up their neck muscles, stake their territory and announce their breeding availability to does. They drool and curl their upper lips when near a doe in estrus.

Meanwhile, also this time of year, you’ll see large groups of deer move into farm fields and roadside meadows and farm fields, almost fearless in their incessant grazing, as they fatten up for the coming winter. But bucks aren’t usually with them. In late October and November, bucks travel solo and in broader ranges, and eat and sleep less. They have one job, well, maybe many jobs that are part of that one job, if you know what we mean, and we think you do, and they’re hopelessly devoted to it.

Glory days! Enjoy, staggering bucks, because November is coming.

And it’ll soon be time for you, non-addled human hikers, to don your bright orange wear. Here’s information about this fall’s deer-hunting seasons.

These guys likely aren’t too happy to see each other, or the photographer,
or anything that isn’t a doe in estrus. Bucks become fierce, aggressive rivals
during the autumnal rut. / Photo by Steve Dietz

If you enjoyed this month's column, I highly recommend subscribing to the Frontenac State Park Association monthly newsletter . It is full of lively nature articles, events at the park, poetry and photos that invite you to step out and learn about our natural world.