Tuesday, July 28, 2026

Let's Get Hiking and Learning - August 2026

False sunflower
Image - Marge Loch-Wouters

For more information on the trips, where available, please click on the blue event titles for a link to the program or hike. 

I will be updating this post throughout the month as new events are announced - usually an additional 6-10 as the month goes on - so feel free to stop back for updated info.







 - Saturday, August 1        9:30-11:30am
 - The Nature Place, 789 Myrick Park Dr, La Crosse WI
Join us for a free family event at The Nature Place on the first Saturday of each month. Each event provides a unique seasonal opportunity to learn about the critters and nature patterns found within our region's ecosystem. If you have a question about the event, please reach out to our Community Programs Manager, Steph Hanna at Steph.Hanna@natureplacelacrosse.org **Weather notices or immediate updates regarding one of these events will be shared on our FB stories the day of the event. Sponsor: The Nature Place

 - June 1 - end of 2026 (ongoing)
 - various refuge locations
2026 is America’s 250th anniversary! In honor of this milestone, Trempealeau National Wildlife Refuge and the Upper Mississippi River National Wildlife and Fish Refuge are inviting visitors to participate in the Refuge Relay Challenge. This special event encourages everyone to explore locations where you can enjoy unique recreation and wildlife watching opportunities! Fish and wildlife are resources that belong to all Americans. Working with partners, we strive to ensure that the rich diversity of species found within our national wildlife refuges are sustained for generations to come. Learn more about YOUR national wildlife refuges by independently exploring at least three of fifteen locations listed below where you can find access to bank fishing opportunities, access to a land or water trails, or watch wildlife through the seasons. Take a selfie or identifying photo at that location to prove that you visited. Bring your three photos to one of the locations in this pdf to show them off and earn a FREE special patch! Sponsors: Trempealeau National Wildlife Refuge/Upper Mississippi River National Wildlife and Fish Refuge

Geology of the Driftless
- Saturday, August 1         10 am -11:30 am
 - Forestville Mystery Cave Park, William Morris’s Visitor Center
Caves, disappearing streams and sinkholes make up a landscape called karst. Cherry Grove Blind Valley Scientific and Natural Area is a hidden gem in the story of karst topography. Master Naturalist volunteer, Ann will reveal these unique geologic features up close on this 1 mile hike. Come prepared to cross over a shallow stream on stepping stones by wearing sturdy shoes. Bug spray is recommended too. Meet at the William Morrissey Visitor Center at Mystery Cave for a brief introduction and follow Ann in your own car about 6 miles to the Cherry Grove SNA. From State Hwy. 16, go 4 miles south on Co. Hwy. 5, then follow the signs to Mystery Cave. More Information: Call 507-352-5111.  Sponsor: MN DNR

Registration open for:
- Thursday, September 10          4:30 pm
 - Iowisota Retreat and Education Center, 2472 IA-26, Lansing, Iowa
Join author and guest expert Bo Brown for a Fall Foraging Walk at Iowisota, followed by a mostly wild food feast at 6:45. Come enjoy the wild of the Driftless Area! Programming Cost: $50/person for the walk and meal. $30 for just the walk or just the meal. Start registration by clicking the RSVP link; The form will allow you to sign up for either the walk or meal, or the whole event. After you submit a registration, we will send you an invoice for payment. Bo Brown will guide the foraging walk on the trails at Iowisota, showing us a variety of wild foods that we can gather along the way. We will collect some components to supplement our dinner and add those with items previously collected (by Linda Haugen and Bo). Upon return to the Gathering Room and guest kitchen we will learn a bit about preparing wild food, and we will eat! The menu will include a variety of appetizers, main course, dessert, and non-alcoholic beverages. The main dish will consist of venison and wild mushroom stroganoff served over wild rice, accompanied by wild greens prepared in different ways. With adequate notice, we can accommodate dietary constraints. Maximum participation of 15. Overnight “Bed and Breakfast” accomodations available Bo Brown hails from southern Missouri. He is the author of two Falcon Guides books - Foraging the Ozarks and Foraging Central Grasslands. Bo is founder/director of First Earth Wilderness School LLC.  Over the last three decades, he has led countless courses on foraging, stone-age wilderness survival, including 9 years as a Naturalist for Missouri Department of Conservation. Bo also conducts weekly foraging walks and stone-age skills demonstrations at Johnny Morris’ Dogwood Canyon Nature Park near Blue Eye, Missouri, presents foraging programs for various area groups and organizations, and offers public speaking at events. How to sign up and pay: Registration is limited to 15 participants. On-site accommodation is limited. Click the link for registration and then fill out the registration form. This will hold your space. Once you have completed the form, we will email you an invoice that you can pay by check, credit card, or PayPal. If payment has not been received within 2 weeks of invoice, your spot may be released. Sponsor: Iowisota Retreat and Education Center

 - Saturday, Aug 1                  10:00am (repeats weekly on Thursdays-Mondays until October 31)
 - Effigy Mounds National Monument, 151 IA-76, Harpers Ferry, IA
Join us for a free ranger-guided hike to Fire Point overlook starting at 10:00 a.m. This hike is a 2-mile roundtrip that will take about 2 hours total. There is a 350ft elevation gain going up 5 switchbacks on the woodchipped trail. There will be frequent stops on this hike as the ranger will be providing information about the resources of the park. Please wear weather appropriate clothing and footwear. Bringing bug spray is recommended. Sponsor: Effigy Mounds National Monument

 - Saturday, August 1                     1:00-2:00 pm
 - Wyalusing State Park, Observatory Parking Lot, 13081 State Park Ln, Bagley WI
During this hike we will be discussing ways to ID Trees, using leaf arrangements, bark and different fruit or buds that are on the trees. We will also be discussing how to age a tree by using tree rings. This event is weather-dependent. Event Contact: Allyssa Nash, allyssa.nash@wisconsin.gov, 608-996-2261. Sponsor: Wyalusing State Park

 - Saturday, Aug 1                  1:00pm (repeats weekly on Fridays-Sundays until October 31)
 - Effigy Mounds National Monument, 151 IA-76, Harpers Ferry, IA
Join us for a free ranger-guided hike along the Yellow River Boardwalk trail. This hike is a 1-mile roundtrip that will take about 1 hour total. This is a wheelchair accessible trail along a recycled-plastic boardwalk to the Yellow River bridge. There will be frequent stops on this hike as the ranger will be providing information about the resources of the park. Please wear weather appropriate clothing and footwear. Bringing bug spray is recommended. Sponsor: Effigy Mounds National Monument

- Saturday, Aug 1                2:30pm (repeats weekly on Fridays-Sundays until October 31)
 - Effigy Mounds National Monument, 151 IA-76, Harpers Ferry, IA
Free “Pop-Up” programs are ranger-led activities or talks. These programs can be focused on a variety of topics and are ranger’s choice. Sponsor: Effigy Mounds National Monument

 - Saturday, August 1                 8:00-10:45 PM
 - Frontenac (MN) State Park, 29223 County 28 Blvd, Frontenac, MN
This presentation offers an engaging journey through the summer night sky, guiding stargazers of all experience levels through the season’s most striking celestial highlights. Attendees will learn how to locate prominent landmarks like the Summer Triangle—a massive stellar trio composed of Vega, Deneb, and Altair—and trace the glowing band of our Milky Way galaxy stretching across the warm evening air. Whether you are a casual observer or a budding astronomer, this presentation provides the essential tools and knowledge to transform an ordinary summer night into an extraordinary cosmic exploration. Meet at the picnic shelter.At 9:00pm, Public Sky Observing of the planet Venus, bright stars, double stars, and more by telescope with guidance members of the Rochester Astronomy Club. At 10 pm, the Moon rises above the eastern horizon, two days after the full moon phase on July 29 at 10:36 am with clearly visible craters on the terminator of the waning moon. Important note: This event may be cancelled last minute in the event of bad weather or severely limited visibility. Check the above website or call the park (651-299-3000) for the latest updates. Sponsors: Frontenac State Park 

Mushroom Identification Walk
- Sunday, August 2          10:00am-noon
- La Crosse WI trail location will be shared after registration
Join UW-L mycologists on a guided walk as we explore our nearby forests in search of fungi! We'll cover the basics of mushroom identification including parts of a mushroom, various forms and features, how to engage your senses & more. Other topics include simple ecology like where to find fungi and what they do in the environment. We'll also share how to easily document mushrooms you encounter and contribute to the community science database iNaturalist! The pace of the walk will be very slow. *Registration required: Trail location will be provided in the confirmation email. https://www.lacrosselibrary.org/.../mushroom...  SPonsor: La Crosse Public Library

 - Monday, August 3                   9:30 am-5:00pm
 - International Owl Center, 162 E. Cedar St, Houston MN
We will have an OPEN HOUSE at the Owl Center in honor of International Owl Awareness Day plus other activities around Houston! Admission is free, other than to the film screening.
Tentative schedule:
At the Owl Center, 9:30 AM- 5:00 PM (we are opening 30 minutes earlier than usual!)
10:00 - 10:30: Local Owl Identification - Andie
11:00 - 11:30: Meet Ruby the Great Horned Owl - Jo
12:00 - 12:30: Frequently Asked Questions - Andie
1:00 - 1:30: Landowner's Guide to Helping Owls - Karla
2:00 - 2:30: Northern Owl Identification - Jo
3:00 - 3:30: The Language of the Great Horned Owl - Karla
4:00 - 4:30: Owls Through the Ages - Andie
 - Door prizes to help you live a more owl-friendly life.
At the Houston Community Center, 9:30 - 5:00 - 111 W. Cedar St, Houston MN
Join us for Owl face painting (for a fee); Garage sale of owl items; Kids' owl art from around the world on display and for sale; TLT Crafts: Owl fabric runners, wall hangings, rice bags, purses and jams; Sue Fletcher: owl photo cards and prints; The Quilling Station, Sheila & Terry: selling quilled owls and demonstrating quilling (all proceeds go to the International Owl Center) *Please note that some programs may be standing room only, with the morning programs expected to be the most crowded and those later in the day the least crowded. Sponsor: International Owl Center

Tom the Creature Teacher
- Tuesday, Aug 4             11:00 am
- Hokah Public Library, 211 Main St, Hokah MN
Here’s your chance to meet several types of frogs, lizards, turtles, and snakes from around the world! You will even be allowed to touch many of the critters while they are being presented. Stick around for lunch with the Meet Up and Eat Up crew following the program! Sponsor: Hokah Public Library

Bird Games for Kids
- Wednesday, August 5             10am
- Houston Public Library, 202 E. Cedar St, Houston MN
Join Amy Simso Dean for bird-focused games and activities for kids and their grownups! Explore Trailhead Park, look for birds, and learn about birds with a migration game, owl pellet dissection, bird scavenger hunt, and craft projects, along with the Friends of the Nature Center. Stick around for lunch after the program! Sponsor: Houston Public Library

 -Wednesday, August 5               5:00-6:30 pm
 - 4010 Sunnyside Dr, La Crosse WI
Join us for a Garden Party at the NEW Southern Bluffs Elementary School Garden. Ms. Amy will lead hands-on garden-themed activities and garden exploration throughout the event. The party is open to the public and FREE to attend. We will see you in the garden! Sponsor: GROW La Crosse

 - Saturday, August 8                   7:30am (please arrive 10 minutes early)
- Meet: First parking lot on the right near Grandad Bluff
Let's do Gateway Trails – Compass North Trail to the 1909 Overlook. This is an intermediate level hike.
Our hikes are free and open to everyone! We ask that anyone planning to join us check the *Well Built Humans Hike/Ruck Club* Facebook page before heading out for any weather or trail updates, and if possible, let us know you're coming. We love welcoming new people each week! Sponsor: Well Built Humans Hike/Ruck Club

 - Saturday, August 8          8:00am
 - Lower Hixon Parking lot, La Crosse WI 
Join Friends of the Blufflands on its Second Saturday Hike called "Birds and Blooms." The hike will be led by Eileen Kirsch, retired from the USGS Upper Midwest Science Center as a bird expert, and Mike O'Brien, board member of Friends of the Blufflands and plant id'er extrordinaire! The hike will begin at the lower Hixon parking lot and proceed on Hickory Trail to Savanna Trail, with an option to proceed to the top of Lookout Prairie. On the way, Eileen will identify birds by sight and by their calls. Bring your binoculars to catch a glimpse of some of the birds and your smartphones to use the bird call app Merlin. Mike will help with the bird identification and also be the one to identify the blooms along the way, as well as on the savanna and prairie. Maybe the indigo bunting, which is a regular on top of Lookout, will serenade the group- "Fire, fire, where, where, here, here...."! Sponsor: Friends of the Blufflands


 - Saturday, August 8           10:00 am 
 - Driftless Area Education and Visitor's Center, 1944 Columbus Rd, Lansing IA
Ever wondered what it was like to hunt during the ice age? In this program, participants will learn about some of the megafauna that lived in Iowa during the last ice age, what an atlatl is, and get to experience throwing spears with an atlatl for themselves. Suitable for all ages 10 and up. Sponsor: Allamakee County Conservation Board/Driftless Area Education and Visitor's Center

 - Saturday, August 8                 Choose 10-11:15 am or noon-1:15pm session
 - McIntosh Menorial Library, Viroqua WI
Join us with Paul Kinzer and his amazing inflatable planetarium at McIntosh Memorial Library to learn all about the stars and space in this celebration of Infinity Day! Located in the Library Lobby! Sign up for one of two sessions available! Time slots open at 10:00-11:15am and 12:00-1:15pm.  Registration Required with library card or as a guest). Funding for this program is provided by the Simons Foundation as part of their #InfiniteSums initiative. Sponsor: McIntosh Memorial (Viroqua) Library

 - Saturday, August 8                     2:00-4:00 PM
 - Goose Island Campground, La Crosse WI
join us at Goose Island Campground for an immersive reptile education experience filled with fascinating facts, up-close encounters, and plenty of opportunities for hands-on exploration. Whether you’re curious, cautious, or completely snake-obsessed, this family-friendly program is designed to inspire wonder and connection with some of nature’s most misunderstood animals.
A heartfelt thank you to La Crosse County Parks for sponsoring this special event and helping us bring wildlife education to our community. Sponsor: Bluff Country Snakes

 - Saturday, August 8          8:00-10:00 pm
 - Wildcat Mountain State Park, E13660 Hwy 33, Ontario, WI
Become a “backyard astronomer” with help from the Northwest Suburban Astronomers. Observe deep sky objects through telescopes. Learn to use constellations and other “landmarks” to find space objects. Meet at the Amphitheater.  This event is weather-dependent. Event Contact: Emily Alf, emily.alf@wisconsin.gov, 608-337-4775. Sponsors: Wildcat Mountain State Park/Northwest Suburban Astronomers

 - Sunday, August 9          1:00 - 4:00 pm
 - Wildcat Mountain State Park, E13660 Hwy 33, Ontario, WI
Join the Northwest Suburban Astronomers to view the sun. Look through special telescope lenses to get a glimpse of the sun’s surface. Drop in at the group camp anytime between 1-4 p.m. to view the sun.
This event is weather-dependent. Event Contact: Emily Alf, emily.alf@wisconsin.gov, 608-337-4775. Sponsors: Wildcat Mountain State Park/Northwest Suburban Astronomers

 - Sunday, August 9               3:00-5:00pm
 - Iowisota Retreat and Education Center, 2472 IA-26, Lansing, IA
This is a free guided hike for women. Topic is dependent on what is currently happening in the forest. Format is informal, so that we can learn from each other and enjoy a chance to be out in nature. For Aug 2026 walk, we may go on the valley trails to talk about trees, prairies, plants and birds. This is an opportunity to go on a hike in the woods with "the girls" and learn from each other. I may be able to schedule these about once a month in 2026, I'm open to suggestions of time. Location will usually be Iowisota (but might vary over time). Topic will be dependent on what is currently happening in the forest, and what participants are interested in. The format will be informal, so that we can all learn from each other and enjoy a chance to be out together in nature. We'll probably spend up to a couple of 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. Linda Haugen (co-owner of Iowisota) will be the leader/host. If you have questions, feel free to email Linda at Iowisota@gmail.com, or call (563)538-6510. Why a "womens" hike?? Linda was 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 are other opportunities when we'll welcome you. Register here.   Sponsor: Iowisota Retreat and Education Center

Preschool Nature Explorers: Feathered Friends
Wednesday, August 10                10:00am
 - Frontenac (MN) State Park,  - Frontenac (MN) State Park, 29223 County 28 Blvd, Frontenac, MN
Nature Explorers program for preschoolers (ages 3-6) with Project Get Outdoors interpretive naturalist Sara Holger and FSPA volunteers: Feathered Friends. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Meet at the park’s main picnic shelter. Sponsors: Frontenac State Park Association/Project Get Outdoors

 - Wednesday, August 12       10:00am
 - Houston City Park, West Maple and South Jackson streets
Join us for a presentation from Heidi Braun, author of Insect Action! An Alphabet, Rhyming, and Movement Book. We’ll observe insects, move like insects, try out insect rubbing plates and insect stencils, and do a couple more insect art projects. Stick around for lunch after the program! Sponsor: Houston Public Library

 - Wednesday, August 12           8:30-10:00pm
- Wyalusing State Park, Huser Astronomy Center, 13081 State Park Ln, Bagley WI
This program begins just after sunset with a 30-40-minute talk and slide show about astronomy. topics range from a broad overview of astronomy, recent astronomical news. The program concludes with a viewing, weather permitting, using a moderate aperture (8" - 10") telescope will be set up to provide park visitors the opportunity to view available astronomical objects. Although all are welcome the talk is best suited for ages 8+ and telescope viewing for ages 4+. This event will be held rain or shine. Event Contact: Oliver Reistroffer, oliver.reistroffer@wisconsin.gov, 608-235-4696. Sponsor: Wyalusing State Park/Badger Talks

 - Friday, August 14           1:30 pm 
 - Clear Creek Park, 1972 South Rd Dr,  Lansing IA
Assistant Naturalist Melissa will share what we can learn from the bugs that live in our streams and how to find them! This program is ideal for families with school-age children. Adults must be present with children for the duration of the program. Wear clothing and shoes that can get wet and muddy. Sponsor: Allamakee County Conservation Board/Driftless Area Education and Visitor's Center

 - Saturday, August 15                   7:30am (please arrive 10 minutes early)
- Meet: 422 Red Apple Dr, La Crescent MN
Let's do La Crescent's Eagle Bluff. This is an easy to intermediate level hike. Our hikes are free and open to everyone! We ask that anyone planning to join us check the *Well Built Humans Hike/Ruck Club* Facebook page before heading out for any weather or trail updates, and if possible, let us know you're coming. We love welcoming new people each week! Sponsor: Well Built Humans Hike/Ruck Club

 - Saturday, August 15          10:00am-noon
- Camp Wenonah, YMCA 31903 Camp Rd., Winona, MN
In cooperation with Winona Family YMCA, Winona Outdoor Collaborative will host a free, family-friendly outdoor Prairie Wildflower Hike. We will climb the bluff at Camp Wenonah. Guided by a Master Naturalist and longtime outdoor educator, we’ll observe plants and wildlife. We will hear birds and perhaps see signs of other wild animals. In the prairie at the top of the bluff, we will notice many varieties of wildflower, both native and invasive. Wear sturdy shoes or boots. Bring water, hat, sunscreen, and bug repellent. This event is appropriate for all ages. The hike up to the prairie is steep, but we plan to hike slowly to accomodate all skill levels. Free to Attend! Registration required. *For this hike only, participants must sign waivers for both Winona Outdoor Collaborative and Winona Family YMCA. Register here. Sponsors: Winona Outdoor Collaborative/Winona Family YMCA

 - Saturday, August 15                10:00-11:30 am
- Frontenac (MN) State Park, 29223 County 28 Blvd, Frontenac, MN
Take a short, guided hike with Ranger Jake! He will lead visitors along trails through the upland area of the park pointing out a variety of natural features as they are encountered. Dress for the weather and bring sun and tick protection. Binoculars and cameras are nice accessories, but not necessary. The hike will last about an hour. This event is free. Sponsors: Frontenac State Park 

- Saturday, August 15         10 am -11:30 am
 - Forestville Mystery Cave Park, William Morris’s Visitor Center
Caves, disappearing streams and sinkholes make up a landscape called karst. Cherry Grove Blind Valley Scientific and Natural Area is a hidden gem in the story of karst topography. Master Naturalist volunteer, Ann will reveal these unique geologic features up close on this 1 mile hike. Come prepared to cross over a shallow stream on stepping stones by wearing sturdy shoes. Bug spray is recommended too. Meet at the William Morrissey Visitor Center at Mystery Cave for a brief introduction and follow Ann in your own car about 6 miles to the Cherry Grove SNA. From State Hwy. 16, go 4 miles south on Co. Hwy. 5, then follow the signs to Mystery Cave. More Information: Call 507-352-5111.  Sponsor: MN DNR

 - Saturday, August 15      10:00am- Noon
 - Camp Wenonah, YMCA, 31903 Camp Rd, Winona MN
In cooperation with Winona Family YMCA, Winona Outdoor Collaborative will host a free, family-friendly outdoor Prairie Wildflower Hike. We will climb the bluff at Camp Wenonah. Guided by a Master Naturalist and longtime outdoor educator, we’ll observe plants and wildlife. We will hear birds and perhaps see signs of other wild animals. In the prairie at the top of the bluff, we will notice many varieties of wildflower, both native and invasive. Wear sturdy shoes or boots. Bring water, hat, sunscreen, and bug repellent. This event is appropriate for all ages. Free to Attend! Registration required. *For this hike only, participants must sign waivers for both Winona Outdoor Collaborative and Winona Family YMCA. Check out the event registration for detailed directions and waivers. Winona Outdoor Collaborative

 - Saturday, August 15     Noon - 4:00pm
 - Sugar Creek Bible Camp Manna Center, 13141 Sugar Creek Bible Camp Rd, Ferryville WI
Sponsors: Crawford Stewardship Project, Sugar Creek Bible Camp, Carleton Hydrology Research


 - Saturday, August 15         5:00-6:00 pm
 - Whitewater State Park Visitor's Center, 19041 Hwy 74, Altura, MN
On this hike, we will travel through time to learn about the geologic processes that formed the beautiful Whitewater River Valley. Find out how oceans, glaciers and raging rivers have shaped this landscape. Distance - 0.7 Miles, Elevation Gain 200 ft. Uneven surfaces. More Information Contact Jeremy Darst at 507-312-2301 or by email at Jeremy.Darst@state.mn.us. Sponsor: Whitewater State Park

Pond Exploration for Kids
- Wednesday August 19                   10am
- Houston Nature Center, 215 W. Plum St, Houston MN
Eagle Bluff Environmental Center educators will bring all the gear needed to look for macroinvertebrates, amphibians and turtles. This is a perfect all-ages program and is very hands-on! Josh from Money Creek Outfitters will also be here to teach you about casting (if all goes according to plan:) ). We'll have art projects for anyone interested as well. Stick around for lunch after to program! Sponsor: Houston Public Library

Wednesday, August 19 - Registration opens for Saturday September 19 Owl Prowl 
September 19 Owl Prowl (6:00-9:00pm) 
 - International Owl Center, 162 Cedar St, Houston MN
We start with a 30-45 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. For more detailed information, click here. Sponsor: International Owl Center  

 - Thursday, August 20           9:00am - noon
 - Friday, August 21                9:00am - noon
 - Saturday, August 22            9:00am - noon
 - Trempealeau National Wildlife Refuge, 28488 Refuge Rd, Trempealeau, WI
Have you heard about the amazing and perilous journey of the Monarch butterfly? Hundreds of Monarch butterflies travel through Wisconsin each year on their way to spend the cold months of winter in Mexico. Trempealeau National Wildlife Refuge is a great stopping point for these small creatures. Come out and help tag Monarchs. Your assistance in the tagging process will help track the migration down to Mexico. Stop in at the refuge contact station during the designated days and times to get your equipment and instructions from a Refuge Ranger, then head out to the designated field to catch Monarchs. Participants must bring back Monarchs to the Contact Station to be tagged by a Refuge Ranger.  *Nets, butterfly ID guides and butterfly cages will be provided. *Groups of more than 6 people must call ahead to be accommodated.
Additional dates: 
August Thu. 27, Fri. 28, Sat. 29 | 9:00 am - 12:00 pm
September Thu. 3, Fri. 4, Sat. 5 | 9:00 am - 12:00 pm
Sponsor: Trempealeau National Wildlife Refuge

 - Saturday, August 22        6:30-7:30 am
 - Hiawatha Valley Pavilion, Little Lake, Winona MN
Join us for an early morning, sunrise stroll around the Little Lake on Saturday, August 22nd to enjoy the summer weather and take in a beautiful sunrise! Grab your water or morning coffee and join us for a peaceful start to the day. We’ll meet at the Hiawatha Valley Pavillion at the little lake before starting our walk. Wilderness Weekends, led by Emily Gorman, is an environmental education program offering an immersive experience to explore the ecosystems and ecological treasures of Winona County. Join us to discover, appreciate, and protect the region's natural wonders. Free to Attend! Registration required.
Sponsor: Winona Outdoor Collaborative

 - Saturday, August 22                   7:30am (please arrive 10 minutes early)
- Meet: First parking lot on the left near Grandad Bluff
Let's do Upper Hixon Trails. This is an intermediate level hike. Our hikes are free and open to everyone! We ask that anyone planning to join us check the *Well Built Humans Hike/Ruck Club* Facebook page before heading out for any weather or trail updates, and if possible, let us know you're coming. We love welcoming new people each week! Sponsor: Well Built Humans Hike/Ruck Club

 - Saturday, August 22                     9-11:00 am
- Frontenac (MN) State Park,  - Frontenac (MN) State Park, 29223 County 28 Blvd, Frontenac, MN
Walk the Prairie Trail looking and listening for breeding grassland birds including meadowlarks, dicksissels, bluebirds, raptors, and various sparrows. Bring binoculars. The trail is mowed grass without much elevation change. The walk is 1-2 miles long. Depending on group preferences and how many birds we're seeing, this can take a couple of hours, but you can leave whenever you would like. No need to register but if you have any questions, email janetmalotky@gmail.com. Meet at the Ranger Station. Sponsors: Frontenac State Park, Frontenac State Park Association

 - Saturday, August 22            10:00am-noon
 - Whitewater State Park Visitor's Center, 19041 Hwy 74, Altura, MN
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 at the visitor center, then drive out of the park 9 miles to hunt for fossils. Bring transportation. More Information: Contact Jeremy Darst at 507-312-2301 or by email at Jeremy.Darst@state.mn.us
Sponsor: Whitewater State Park

 - Saturday, August 22           time: TBD 
 - County HomePark, 861 St. Hwy 9,  Waukon, IA
Herpetology is the study of reptiles and amphibians. Take a stroll with Naturalist Erin as we look for and learn about our native turtles, snakes, and frogs! Sponsor: Allamakee County Conservation Board/Driftless Area Education and Visitor's Center

Exploring the Night Sky
- Saturday, August 22                      8:00-10:30pm
Perrot State Park, 26247 Sullivan Road, Trempealeau, WI 54661
The La Crosse Area Astronomical Society will guide you on a tour of the night sky. Star charts and calendars will be given out along with guidance on how to use them. If the sky is clear, telescopes will be available for viewing. Meet at the Interpretive Center. This event will be held rain or shine. Event Contact: Steve Banicki, Steven.Banicki@wisconsin.gov, 608-534-6409 Sponsor: Friends of Perrot State Park

 

 - Wednesday August 26-Monday August 31, all day
 - Wyalusing State Park Visitor Center, 13081 State Park Ln, Bagley WI
This event is self-guided so it can be done at your own pace. To start you will need to get a player card from the Visitor Center. Then head out to find 24 items around three trails (Mississippi Ridge, Walnut Springs, Prairie Trails). After the following is completed, you can head back over to the Visitor Center to collect your prize! Note: The Visitor Center is closed Tuesdays and Thursdays with varying hours the rest of the week. Kids 12 and under will only have to find 16 of the 24 items to get a prize. The event will be held rain or shine. Event Contact: Allyssa Nash, allyssa.nash@wisconsin.gov, 608-996-2261 Sponsor: Wyalusing State Park

 - Thursday, August 27           9:00am - noon
 - Friday, August 28                9:00am - noon
 - Saturday, August 29            9:00am - noon
 - Trempealeau National Wildlife Refuge, 28488 Refuge Rd, Trempealeau, WI
Have you heard about the amazing and perilous journey of the Monarch butterfly? Hundreds of Monarch butterflies travel through Wisconsin each year on their way to spend the cold months of winter in Mexico. Trempealeau National Wildlife Refuge is a great stopping point for these small creatures. Come out and help tag Monarchs. Your assistance in the tagging process will help track the migration down to Mexico. Stop in at the refuge contact station during the designated days and times to get your equipment and instructions from a Refuge Ranger, then head out to the designated field to catch Monarchs. Participants must bring back Monarchs to the Contact Station to be tagged by a Refuge Ranger.  *Nets, butterfly ID guides and butterfly cages will be provided. *Groups of more than 6 people must call ahead to be accommodated.
Additional dates: 
September Thu. 3, Fri. 4, Sat. 5 | 9:00 am - 12:00 pm
Sponsor: Trempealeau National Wildlife Refuge

Purple Loosestrife Presentation
 -  Friday August 28             5:30 pm
 - Trempealeau National Wildlife Refuge, Outdoor Wonders Learning Center, 28488 Refuge Rd, Trempealeau, WI
Join Mara Lince, Regional Aquatic Invasive Species Coordinator of Golden Sands RC&D, to learn more about Wisconsin’s statewide purple loosestrife biocontrol program. During this program, you will learn about the history of purple loosestrife biocontrol in Wisconsin, how to identify both the plant and the Galerucella beetle, and how biocontrol success is monitored. Before Mara's presentation we will head out for a short hike, participants will have the opportunity to search for beetles on the refuge. *Spaces are limited and reservations are required. Please call the contact station to reserve your spot, 608-539-2311 x2 Sponsor: Trempealeau National Wildlife Refuge

UW Universe in the Park
- Friday, August 28                       8:00-10:00 pm
Perrot State Park, 26247 Sullivan Road, Trempealeau, WI 54661
Join Alejandra Lopez Holguin of the UW-Madison Astronomy Department as she presents an interactive program on the night sky. Weather permitting, visitors will have the chance to view astronomical objects through a telescope at the conclusion of the talk. Meet at the Interpretive Center. Event Contact: Steve Banicki, Steven.Banicki@wisconsin.gov, 608-534-6409 This event will be held rain or shine. Sponsor: Friends of Wisconsin State Parks and Friends of Perrot State Park


 - Saturday, August 29                   7:30am (please arrive 10 minutes early)
- Meet: Lower Hixon Forest parking lot, La Crosse WI
Let's do Miller Bluff. This is an intermediate level hike. Our hikes are free and open to everyone! We ask that anyone planning to join us check the *Well Built Humans Hike/Ruck Club* Facebook page before heading out for any weather or trail updates, and if possible, let us know you're coming. We love welcoming new people each week! Sponsor: Well Built Humans Hike/Ruck Club

Do you know of other August hiking/learning events I should include?  Just drop me a line in comments or the contact box on my web version of the blog.

You can read my quarterly column on seasonal hiking suggestions in Inspire(d) Driftless magazine available online or pick up a free copy at businesses and organizations around the Driftless areas of Minnesota, Wisconsin and Iowa.

A guided hike at Holland Sand Prairie
Image - Marge Loch-Wouters


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Thursday, July 23, 2026

How You Can Help Boundary Waters Wilderness-Edge Communities

I wanted to share some updates on the BWCAW closures and permits. In addition our friends up in areas adjacent to the wilderness are reeling from the fires as well as the effects on businesses that depend on paddlers. Ingrid provides some important tips and information as well as suggestions for paddling/hiking possibilities outside the bounds of BWCAW,

Please consider lending your money and your support to help these communities weather this unprecedented climate-chage fueled disaster. There are some concrete things we can do to lend support.

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Monday, July 20, 2026

How Does Nature Impact Us?

Reno Quarry overlook MN

I love talking with people who spend time in nature. While hiking is my jam, I also paddle, amble, bike, camp, fish and, in general, adventure. Like so many others, I wouldn't do any of it if it didn't resonate with me. 

When I ask what brings them out, people cite increased health benefits and opportunities to exercise; the freedom of being outdoors; the joy of being in nature; the pride in living off what the land offers through foraging, fishing and hunting; the calmness that comes with intereacting deeply with nature; the wonder of learning more about the flora and fauna surrounding them, and the passion to contribute to conservation of the environemnt and environmental ecoscapes.

Of course there are many other reasons. But we all share a passion for nature.

A recent article titled "What Happens to Your Brain in Nature? Neuroscience explained" [The Conversation. Estarellas, Mar. March 16, 2026] explored why we often feel a sense of calm in nature that encourages us to return often to the outdoors.

South Park, Houston MN

The author writes: 
"Looking across the 108 studies, we found a broadly consistent pattern, which we summarize as a cascade of effects through which nature may influence the brain.

First, natural settings are often easier for the brain to process. Their shapes and rhythms frequently follow fractal patterns, like those seen in coastlines, leaves and clouds, which the brain appears to process efficiently.

This may reduce sensory and perceptual load. As that happens, stress-related systems begin to settle and the body can shift out of fight-or-flight mode.

Attention may then become less effortful, and emotional processing more stable. We describe this as a pathway linking perception, stress regulation, attention and self-related processing."

Click here to read this short fascinating article and see if it resonates with you.

Bass Hollow SNA WI

At about the same time I came across the above article, I also read an article about how nature, or more specifically, local parks positively impact our communities.  And this local impact refers back to how nature affects us as well.

Titled "Your Local Park is Bringing in the Green (and by that we mean money)", [Grist. Simon, Matt. June 5, 2026] discusses how important green space and parks are to people. It looks at the economic return that communities get by providing green space - think of how often we stop for food and drinks or to pop into stores in communities near where we hike. Beyond that though, the article talks about other positive benefits of these natural areas like promoting mental health, beautifying the community, providing needed "third spaces" and creating a more resilient environment as our climate changes as well.

The author writes: "Parks aren's as much about land as they are about people. In an increasingly commodified world, they're one of the few remaining public places where folks can roam without the pressure of spending money. That makes them a critical kind of "third place, " somewhere to gather beyond the workplace and the home. Whereas people must pay a premium to use a gym, they can use a park or rec center for free."

Click here to read the article.


Images, unless noted - Marge Loch-Wouters

The Border Trail, Cook County MN




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