Nature Sneak Peek - June 2026

Bulblet bladderferns

Summer is here! We are officially in the warm season of abundant plant growth and abundant wildlife activity. As the weather heats up, nature is enjoying a massive growth spurt. It makes June a particularly beautiful month to be outdoors.

Here are some of the things you might notice on the trails in June. Enjoy!

Woods

Now that the leaves are fully out and shading the trails, the season of delicate ephemerals is mostly behind us. Sturdier, shade-loving plants come to the fore. Nettles, cleavers, woodbine and other green growth is explosive.

Ferns - are in their glory this month as they reach towards their full growth. Watch for interrupted, ostrich, lady, sensitive, wood and maidenhair ferns in the woods. Note the small ferns like rockcap and bulblet bladderferns that nestle in rock faces. These hardy beauties need little soil to be successful.

Leaves three, let it be -poison ivy

Fungi - mushrooms like inky caps, oysters, conks and shelf mushrooms like Dryad's saddle are much in evidence on the trails. Watch for chanterelles and old man of the woods make an appearance as well. Be sure you know which mushrooms are edible before foraging.

Poison ivy is out in plant, bush and vine form not just in woods but in wetlands and prairies too. Be cautious near trail edges and don't touch any plant with three leaves if you're not sure of it's identity.

Prairies

Death camus

This is the beginning of their shining season. I hike often in  prairies for the sheer diversity of blooms throughout the warm season. Sun loving plants and their insect pollinators (and their predators) are out in force. There are swaths of big bold color on the prairies (think butterfly weed, puccoons, spiderworts and more) but watch for the blooms of rare plans like bastard toad-flax, beardtongue, Canada frostweed, four-o-clock and Deptford pink.

Leonard's skullcap

Leonard's skullcap and mountain death camus - these tiny blooms on short stalks are some of my favorite June finds. Every part of the camus is deadly to ingest for wildlife and humans. The skullcap's bloom is no bigger than a small child's fingernail but one of the most beautiful blooms on the prairie.

Milkweeds - while we are used to seeing the common milkweed and its attendant butterflies nectoring on them, there is a wealth of other milkweeds to discover. Among the ones you can spot in the Driftless area: butterfly weed, narrow leaf, clasping leaf, purple, short green, green comet and whorled milkweed. Keep your eyes out!

The Solomon's seals - it's finally bloom time for these elegant forbs. Often people struggle between identifying smooth (true, as some people say) vs false Solomon's seal. If you are one of them, this mnemonic can help: false on the lip; true under hip. In other words, the false Solomon's seal sets it bloom from the tip while smooth Solomon's seal has blossoms under it's leaves. 

The top photo shows a false Solomon's seal with it's flower "on the "lip" or at the tip of the leaf structure.

The photo below it shows a smooth Solomon's seal with it's pendant buds ready to open "under hip", sheltered by its leaves above. 

I admit I wish poor false Solomon's seal had its own lovely name without the word "false" but that's life!

Wetlands

Plants that love wet feet are in abundance including marsh ferns, grasses, and flowers. But the real star here is the wildlife.

Widow skimmer dragonfly

Dragonflies/Damselflies - mosquito hatches in wet, damp areas also bring out a rich variety of flying predators. Wisconsin has over 118 species of dragonflies alone. It's fascinating to watch the skimmer, clubtail, forktail, darner, cruiser and spiketail dragonflies, along with the more delicate broad-winged and spread-winged damselflies, go about their business. And I can't help thanking them!

Turtles - it’s time for turtles to dig their nests and deposit their eggs. This is a dangerous time for the females. Keep a sharp eye out on roads near wetlands and bodies of water. If you can do it safely, you can help a turtle by following this guide to the left.

Birds - the nesting and fledging season for a variety of songbirds is in full swing. Early morning or late evening walks are a symphony of sound in the trees and brush of wetlands as the many warblers and songbirds call. While the leaves obscure the view, with a pair of binoculars you can still spot some of the flitting birds on the hunt for food for their young.

Finally, Fireflies  

While you may not be hiking at night, one of the most iconic and anticipated insect appearances of June is the firefly. As darkness falls, these beetles that can produce bioluminescence through a chemical reaction within their abdomen, begin their mating ritual. Their winking nightly flights always feel to me like the proof that summer is well upon us.

No matter where you go, be curious. Take some extra time to look and see what you can see along the trail. You’ll be delighted!

Purple milkweed

Images, unless noted - Marge Loch-Wouters

Scaly inky cap mushrooms

Summer’s Best Driftless Prairie Hikes

Sugar Creek Bluff prairie

Let's celebrate National Prairies Day on Saturday June 6! And what better way to celebrate than hiking one of the many prairies in the Driftless regions of MN, WI and IA? Check the following list of over 30 prairie hikes to find some new spots to explore and enjoy.

The prairies listed feature fairly flat, dry sand prairies that are easily accessible for gentle hikes, to blufftop prairies remnants you earn with a significant gain in elevation, to goat prairies that are extremely steep and challenging. 

Summer is the very best season to enjoy these gems, many of which are maintained and restored by groups like the Mississippi Valley Conservancy, The Prairie Enthusuaists and the Friends of the Blufflands, Park and Rec Departments and Friends groups among others. There are many familiar as well as rare plants you can enjoy. 

Here are a few of my favorite prairie hikes to celebrate the summer in. You can click on the title for hike descriptions/locations. I've also graded the hikes on level of difficulty so you can match the destination to your ability.  

Goat/Hill Prairies

Hixon Forest Prairies, La Crosse WI - moderate to difficult

A literal  prairie "string of pearls," on this hike take you to numerous goat prairies (and spectacular views) in various stages of restoration thanks to TPE, Friends of the Blufflands and the city. You can reach the closest three prairies by doing a 2.3 mile loop or extend the hike to reach Vista and Stry prairies to the east. The hiking to the first three prairies has some ups and downs but is relatively moderate.

"String of Pearls"prairies in yellow
City of La Crosse Park and Recreation map

Great River Bluff State Park, Nodine MN - moderately easy

The King's Bluff trail is notable for its fine hill prairies along its route. From pasque flowers in the early spring all the way through the asters of fall, the prairies here never disappoint. Restoration work is ongoing at this state park and SNA. And, of course, the views of the Mississippi River and Queen's bluff at the end of the out-and-back trail are worth the price of your MN annual park sticker. 

Marowski Bluff, Ferryville WI - moderate to difficult
Recently acquired and protected by The Prairie Enthusiasts, this steep bluffside prairie is being actively restored by their Coulee Region chapter. A kiosk with information about the property and its donor, Dr. Marowski greets the public at a small cul de sac. The prairie and encircling woods features a large number of plants including the rare purple milkweed. While there are no signed trails, for the wandering prairie enthusiast, there are treasures to be found along its steep slopes.

Sugar Creek Bluff, Ferryville, WI - moderate

This Mississippi Valley Conservancy property features a steep restored and carefully maintained prairie at the end of an out-and-back forest walk of about a 1.5 miles. Spectacular views of the Mississippi River and MN bluffs along with a rich prairie environment await. 

Rush Creek Bluff SNA, Ferryville WI - very challenging

You earn this goat prairie after a steep hike up an old logging road. Those in the know can also walk south from the parking lot and bushwhack up from the bottom  - the lower third of the hike up the south esast side of the bluff is full of rare and amazing prairie plants. Not for the faint of hear or body.

Perrot State Park - Trempealeau WI - moderate to difficult

Brady's bluff trail takes you through a large steep goat prairie south of the shelter at the top. Flowering spurge is quite prominent but sharp-eyed hikers will spot other prairie stalwarts on the steep slope. 

Dry Sand Prairies

Kellogg Weaver Dunes SNA
Image - MN DNR

Kellogg Weaver Dunes SNA, Wabasha County, MN - moderate

Have your trails app on and explore this trailless series of sand dunes near the Mississppi River. Your reward is sightings of rare flora, fauna and insects throughout the growing season - including the elusive fameflower. There are patches of poison ivy throughout so stay alert but don't let that stop you from exploring this amazing ecosystem.

Holland Sand Prairie, Holmen WI  - easy

This Mississippi Valley Conservancy property near the edge of a subdivision is a riot of prairie plants. Regular prescribed burns make this tract one of the best destinations for frequent return trips to see the constant carpets of ever-changing, blooming prairie plants. Easy.

Trempealeau National Wildlife Refuge, Trempealeau WI - easy

While best known for it's migratory birds and wetlands, the refuge has a spectacular trail that hugs a series of old sand dunes and is a riot of dry sand prairie forbs and grasses. The hills in late May to early June are carpeted in blue wild lupines but any time in the summer you can find colorful prairie plants on this flat trail suitable for any ability. 

Upper Mississippi River National Fish & Wildlife Refuge Visitor Center, Onalaska WI - easy

Located at N5727 County Rd Z, Onalaska, WI on Brice Prairie, the "trails begin at the visitor center and wind through a restored sand prairie. Paved pathways lead from the visitor center to the Lake Onalaska Overlook, connecting to longer packed gravel loops along the way. Plenty of native prairie plants provide year round color and are a-buzz with wildlife from late spring through fall. Outdoor restrooms are available year round." This is always a beautiful and well-maintained prairie. 

Borah Creek Prairie SNA, Fennimore WI - moderate to challenging.
This sand prairie in southwest WI stretches over acres. There are few trails but walking right into the prairie itself reveals an ever-changing variety of forbs, grasses, birds and insects.

Bluff-top Mini-Remnant Prairies

These lovely little jewels are a reward at or near the top of bluff hikes. While small, they are stunning in their variety, full of rare and familiar native plants. They are seldom burned or maintained so can be overgrown but are rewarding for the welcome pops of color when coming out from forest trails. These hikes can sometimes be difficult due to steep elevation changes.

• Vetsch Park's Stoney Point, La Crescent MN - moderately difficult

Vetsch Park's remnant prairie

• South Park, Houston MN - difficult

• Maglessen Bluff - Rushford MN - easy from park top

• Beaver Creek Valley State Park , Hole-in-the-Rock Trail- Caledonia MN - moderately difficult

• Yellow River State Forest, Luster Heights Unit - Harper's Ferry, IA - easy

• Yellow River State Forest, Paint Rock Unit - Harper's Ferry, IA - moderately difficult

• Greens Coulee/Savannah Oaks, Onalaska WI - difficult

• Eagles Bluff, La Crescent MN - moderate

• Wildwood Trail, Bluffside Park - Winona MN - easy

• Chickadee Trail, Bluffside Park, Winona MN - easy

• Reno Quarry Trail - Reno, MN - moderate

• Whitewater State Park (especially Dakota Trail and Eagle Point trails), Altura MN - difficult

Open Prairies

These prairies are fairly large and found at or near the top of bluffs.

• Easter Road Hass Conservancy, La Crosse WI - moderate to difficult

• Upper Hixon Forest Thompson Prairie Loop - County FA, La Crosse WI - easy

• Effigy Mounds National Monument, Harper's Ferry, IA - moderate to difficult

• Norwegian Ridge Nature Trail, Spring Grove MN - moderate

• Apple Blossom Overlook Park, Winona MN - moderately easy

Pollinator Gardens

I am including some planted "pollinator gardens" because they boast a stunning variety of prairie forbs, grasses and pollinating insects - and a few provide more accessible hikes for all abilities.

Community Prairie and Butterfly Garden - Decorah IA - easy

This city butterfly garden and prairie was originally planted in 2002 to protect water quality on the Upper Iowa River.  Start at the butterfly garden to learn what's in bloom and observe pollinators close-up. Then head into the expansive prairie to put your new forb knowledge to the test. There are 2 miles of mowed trails under Decorah's limestone cliffs, making it a lovely summer walk at whatever length and path you choose.

Vetsch Park, La Crescent MN - easy

A huge swath of pollinator plants (and insects) greet you at the parking lot of this park. You can follow the easy, sunny, mowed trails suitable for anyone of any ability. If you want to see a small remnant hill prairie, head up the spiderweb of trails to the top at Stoney Point for delicate wildflowers and prairie plants clinging to the hillside.

Mathy Quarry, La Crosse WI - easy

This Mississippi Valley Conservancy and City of La Crosse property has some great restored pollinator prairies full of insect and bird life. Trails can be hilly but one or two are flatter and bring you up to great views on your way to and from the pollinator prairies.

Lemon cuckoo bumblebee
gathering pollen on a coneflower

Shelby Butterfly Gardens, Shelby WI - moderate to difficult

These scout-project gardens sit atop a bluff. While not continuously maintained and so are a bit rough with some invasives, there are still abundant flowers and insect life that await you at the end of your bluff climb.

Lake Park Walk Pollinator Gardens, Winona MN - easy

Along the north shore of East Lake, there are a number of shoreline pollinator gardens with a variety of native prairie flower blooms from spring to fall. The paved asphalt makes this path accessible for any ability.

Whitewater State Park, Altura MN - easy

The Meadow Trail (first parking lot on your left if coming in from the south) has a robust sand prairie combined with stream views and rock wall views as you cross footbridges and wander this area. Very easy and flat.

I hope you can head out and enjoy some prairie beauty this summer and fall. Be sure to let me know in comments what other prairies you know about. I'd love to hike them and tell everyone. To read more about remnant prairies, please stop here.

See you on the trails!

[Note: this post is an updated list of prairie hikes originally published June 6, 2025 ]

Images, unless noted - Marge Loch-Wouters

Holland Sand Prairie
Image - Kris Lawson

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.

Family Hiking Ideas and Resources

On the trail
Image contributed by Lavon Court

There are so many great ways to engage kids on the trails when you hike as a family. From examining natural objects up close (a little view) to encouraging kids to get a "big" view while they are on trails, hiking is a great way to link kids more closely to our natural world and its complex web of life.

It can also introduce a lifelong ethic of caring for and conserving our resources and beautiful natural places. Following a "leave no trace" hiking style (pack out what you pack in) also emphasizes how we can preserve our environment for genertions to come.

This post is a companion piece to an article I wrote for the summer 2026 issue of Driftless Inspire(d) Magazine on Kid -Friendly Summer Hiking. Here is a list of a few online resources to help you and your familiy enjoy your time in nature even more.

Image - Sara Holger, Project Get Outdoors

Nature Activities
These resources are a practical beginning for fun activities - and list additional resources to rabbit hole down and learn even more.

• A Parent’s Guide to Nature Play - brief tips on getting kids engaged outdoors - and why its important
• GO Outdoors Cards, Jeffers Foundation - seasonal ideas for engaging kids
• ABCs for the Outdoors Pinterest page - great ideas for nature activities - like all Pinterest pages, so many ideas, so little time. 
• Aldo Leopold Center Engaging with Nature Ideas - nature engagement and craft ideas 
• MN DNR Project Learning Tree Family Learning Activities - clear ideas and ways to implement nature engagement with kids
• Project Get Outdoors Activity Calendar - includes suggested activities and books for every day of the year

Common eastern butterfly on goldenrod

Nature Identification apps

There are many apps to use. Most are AI-powered/enhanced. They will point you in the right direction but you may need to check with a second source for a firm ID - including identification books like Marrone's Mushrooms of the Upper Midwest. These are just a few of my phone app go-to's.There are many others to choose from as well. 

• Merlin Bird ID -  developed by Cornell Lab of Ornithology, this app helps you locate and identify birds by their song.
• Seek - iNaturalist folks are behind this all-purpose plant, animal and insect life identifier
• Picture This Plant ID - Fast and fairly accurate for plants, trees, shrubs and other greenery
• Bee Machine - a bit pokey but tends to be accurate. I check against Wisconsin's Bumblebee Brigrade field guides
• PictureMushroom- I use this to get a first identification but rely heavily on Marrone's book, Mushrooms of the Upper Midwest for a precise confirmation. Do not eat anything you cannot identify precisely.

Looking out from a bluff
to the Mississippi River

It's fun to pass on our love of the outdoors to kids. With some of these resources, we can increase our knowledge and that of the kids we hike with. 

Check out this list of family friendly hikes to find a destination that you and the kids will enjoy!

See you on the trails!

Images, unless noted - Marge Loch-Wouters

I Spy on the Trails - May 16 - 31, 2026

Tall thimbleweed

The final two weeks of the month kept the wildflowers and migrating songbirds coming. In our part of the Driftless, the early spring colors of emerging forest leaves gave way to the deeper greens of summer. Bluffsides are now a more consistent hue. 

The big news these past two weeks was the early heat. While temperatures started on the cool side, our early Memorial Day brought us 80's to a surprise 90F to herald in the summer season. Enough early rain fell to keep forests moist although by the end of these two weeks, its spotty nature meant early dryness.

I spent part of last week in northern Wisconsin in the Hayward/Cable area. Once again, I got to re-experience emergent spring with all the early flowers and plant life as well as animal life like fawns. Minnesota and Wisconsin both experienced high songbird migrations during those four days. Each morning a new group of warblers greeted us at our cabin and on our hikes as they arrived to nest or continued their migration north. Both the birds and the flora were gobsmackingly wonderful. 

In the Driftless, prairies are bursting with flowers as the forests begin to hand over the baton of stunning showstoppers to the sunny drier prairies and the plants that thrive in those conditions. The lupines, puccoons, prairie smoke and birdfoot violets were out in force. Many of their rare companions like the death camus, indian paintcup, blue-eyed prarie grass are beginning - or almost ready - to start their bloom. Next month promises more stunners.

Plant Observations
Flowering:

• alyssum, hoary
• anemone, rue
• bastard toadflax
• blackberry
• blacksnakeroot, clustered

  

  Canada frostweed

• buttercup, bristly
• buttercup, little-leaf
• Canada frostweed
• cinquefoil, common
• columbine
• dewberry, northern
• fern, bulblet bladderfern
• fern, interrupted
• fern, lady
• fern, New York
• fern, northern maidenhair
• fern, ostrich
• fern, rockcap
• fern, sensitive
• fern, spinulose woodfern
• fleabane, daisy
• geranium, wild
• ginger, wild
• golden Alexander
• grass, orchard
• groundsel, prairie
• harebell
• hawkweed, orange
• Indian paintcup
• lily of the valley, false starry
• lupine, wild
• New Jersey tea
• orchis, showy
• phlox, downy
• plantain, Robin’s
• prairie blue-eyed grass
• prairie Junegrass
• prairie smoke
• puccoon, Carolina (hairy)

  

  Slender yellow woodsorrel

• puccoon, fringed
• puccoon, hoary
• rockcress, hairy
• rockcress, lyreleaf
• rockcress, tower
• rose, prairie
• rose, smooth
• sandwort, bluntleaf
• Scribner’s obscuregrass
• sedge, eastern star
• sedge, oval-leaf
• sedge, white bear
• sheep sorrel
• smooth brome
• spiderwort, Ohio
• Solomon’s seal, false
• spurge, leafy
• sweet root, long style (aniseroot)
• thimbleweed, tall
• two-leaf miterwort (bishop’s cap)
• violet, birdfoot
• waterleaf, great
• waterleaf, Virginia
• wild strawberry
• wintercress
• wood betony
• woodsorrel, slender yellow
• yarrow

Sprouting/greened/budded:

• anemone, candle

  

  Leadplant bud

• butterfly weed
• camus, mountain death
• cinquefoil, sulfur
• compass plant 
• coneflowers, purple and gray-headed
• coreopsis, prairie
• cup plant
• goldenrods
• greenbriar, bristly
• Indian hemp
• leadplant
• milkweed, common
• milkwort, racemed
• penstamon, large bearded
• plantain, wooly
• primrose, common evening
• pussytoes, plantain
• rattlesnake master
• rose, prairie
• Solomon's seal, smooth
• verbena, hoary

Past bloom:

• bellwort, large-leaved
• false starry lily of the valley
• mayapple
• pussytoes, field

Fungi/Moss/Lichen

• fungi, Dryad's saddle
• Mushroom, inky caps
• mushroon, oyster
• mushroom, golden oyster

Wildlife Observations (seen/heard/detected)

Birds

• blackbird, red-winged
• blue jay
• bluebird, eastern
• bobolink 
• cardinal, northern
• Canada goose
• catbird, gray
• cedar waxwing
• chickadee, black-capped
• cowbird, brown-headed
• crane, sandhill
• dickcissel 
• eagle, bald (and unfledged juvenile)
• flycatcher, blue-gray
• flycatcher, great-crested
• flycatcher, least
• flycatcher, Willow
• flycatcher, yellow-bellied
• goldfinch
• grackle
• grosbeak, blue
• grosbeak, rose-breasted

  

  Dickcissel 

• indigo bunting
• killdeer
• kingbird, eastern
• kingfisher, belted
• meadowlark, eastern
• nuthatch, white breasted
• oriole, Baltimore
• ovenbird
• redstart, American
• robin, American
• scarlet tanager
• sparrow, clay-colored
• sparrow, field
• sparrow, grasshopper
• sparrow, house
• sparrow, Savannah 
• sparrow, song
• sparrow, white-throated
• starling, European
• swallow, cliff
• swallow, vesper
• thrasher, brown

  

  Indigo bunting
  Image - Kris Lawson

• thrush, hermit
• thrush, wood
• titmouse, tufted
• towhee, eastern
• tufted titmouse
• turkey vulture
• veery
• vireo, Bell's
• vireo, eastern warbling
• vireo, red-eyed
• vireo, yellow-throated
• warbler, black-and-white,
• warbler, blackpoll
• warbler, blue-winged
• warbler, chestnut-sided
• warbler, Magnolia
• warbler, Nashville
• warbler, northern yellow
• warbler, Prothonotary 
• warbler, yellow-rumped
• wood-pewee, eastern
• woodpecker, hairy
• woodpecker, pileated
• woodpecker, red-bellied
• wren, northern house
• yellowthroat

Mammals

• doe with fawn

Reptiles/Amphibians

• snake, garter
• turtle, snapping

Insects/arachnids

• bumblebee, queen, brown-belted

  

  Viceroy butterfly

• bumblebee, queen, common eastern
• butterfly, American copper
• butterfly, blue azure
• butterfly, clouded sulfur
• butterfly, comma
• butterfly, nothern crescent
• butterfly, tiger swallowtail
• butterfly, Viceroy
• damselfly, eastern forktail
• damselfly, tule bluet
• dragonfly, common whitetail 
• dragonfly, dusky clubtail,
• dragonfly, horned clubtail
• dragonfly, dusky clubtail

Hayward/Cable Hiking Observations

Plants:

Blooming:

• anemone, wood

  

  Blue bead lily (clintonia)

  
  
• forget-me-not
• fern, bracken
• fern, lady
• fern, long beech
• fern, oak
• fern, intermadiate wood
• fern, interrupted
• gaywings
• hepatica, roundleaf
• jack-in-the-oulpit
• lily, blue bead
• lily, straw
• marigold marsh
• springbeauty
• starflower
• strawberry, barren
• strawberry, wild
• trillium
• trillium, nodding (nodding wakerobin)
• violet, blue
• violet, downy yellow
• wild ginger

Sprouted:

• betony, wood
• blue cohosh
• buttercup, little-leaf
• Canada mayflower
• columbine
• partridge berry
• Solomon's seal, false
• Solomon's seal, hairy
• Solomon's seal, smooth

Wildlife (seen/heard/detected)

Birds:

• blackbird, red-winged
• chickadee, black-capped
• duck, mallard
• flycatcher, least
• goldfinch
• goose, Canada
• grosbeak, rose-breasted

  

  Northern parula
  Image - Ryan Schaun, Merlin Bird ID

• heron, great blue
• hawk, broad-winged
• loon
• nuthatch, red-breasted
• nuthatch, white-breasted
• ovenbird
• parula, northern
• phoebe, eastern
• redstart, American
• robin, American
• sapsucker, yellow-bellied
• sparrow, chipping
• sparrow, song
• thrush, hermit
• towhee, eastern
• vireo, red-eyed
• vireo, yellow-throated
• warbler, black-and-white
• warbler, black-thoated blue
• warbler, black-throated green
• warbler, blackburnian
• warbler, chestnut-sided
• warbler, mourning
• warbler, Nashville
• warbler, northern yellow
• warbler, palm
• warbler, yellow-rumped
• warbler, Wilson's
• woodpecker, hairy
• woodpecker, red-bellied
• yellow-bellied sapsucker
• yellowthroat

Mammals:

• deer and nursing fawn

Insects

• bumblebee, queen, common eastern
• butterfly, northern azure

Reptiles/Amphibians

• spring peepers

What are YOU seeing on your hikes?

Bastard toad-flax

A month of hikes
Hikes below in colored, bold type or underlined have links to previous posts OR descriptions/location of the trails found online.

Holland Sand Prairie, Holman WI (2); Wayside WanderingsPlay Area/Nature Trails, Cable WI; Morgan Falls/St Peter's Dome, Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest, WI;  South Park, Houston MN; Beaver Creek Valley State Park, Caledonia MN; McGilvray’s Seven Bridges, New Amsterdam, WI; Hixon Forest, La Crosse, WI; Apple Blossom Overlook Park, Winona County, MN, Riverside Park, La Crosse WI; 

The "I Spy on the Trails" column is a phenology (the study of seasonal changes in plants and animals) journal to chronicle year-round the weather, plant life and wildlife I observe while hiking. It is very useful in helping me compare observations from year-to-year. The column is published monthly from September through April and then twice-a-month from May through August when warm weather brings the natural world back to vibrant life.

In the ferns
Image - Kris Lawson

Images, unless noted - Marge Loch-Wouters

Let's Get Hiking and Learning - June 2026

For more information on the trips, where available, please click on the colored 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 5-8 as the month goes on - so feel free to stop back for updated info.

June Events

Fire Point Ranger Guided Hike

 - Monday, June 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

Bee House Workshop: Paving the Way for Pollinators with Heidi Bacon
 - Thursday, June 4                    6:00pm 

 - Houston Public Library, 202 E. Cedar St, Houston MN
Heidi will showcase her artwork pairing native Minnesota pollinators with the native plants they rely on, while discussing the importance of supporting pollinators in home landscapes. Participants will receive native Minnesota wildflower seeds and create bee houses using recycled materials. This event is geared to adults, but all ages are welcome. Kids might need some help from an adult. Sponsor: Houston Public Library

Yellow River Boardwalk Guided Hike

 - Friday, June 5                  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

 "Pop-Up" Ranger Program

- Friday, June 5                  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

Celebrate National Prairie Day and National Trails Day with a Hike!

 - Saturday, June 6, 2026

Need some ideas on some new prairies to hike and explore? Stop here for some of my favorite prairie hikes in the Driftless!

Free Fun Weekend in WI State Parks

 -  Saturday and Sunday, June 6-7

 - all WI state Parks

The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) invites the public to head outdoors for the 14th annual Free Fun Weekend happening June 6-7, 2026. State park admission fees, fishing licenses and trail passes are waived for all visitors. With 50 state parks, 15 state forests, 44 state trails, 84,000 miles of rivers and streams and roughly 15,000 inland lakes, Wisconsin has something for everyone to enjoy. "If you’ve never checked out a Wisconsin state park before, Free Fun Weekend is the perfect opportunity to come visit for the first time," said Steve Schmelzer, DNR Bureau Director of Parks and Recreation Management. "Bring your friends and family to enjoy a day at the beach, have a picnic or go for a hike – the Wisconsin State Park System has something fun for everyone!" State ParksVehicle admission passes will not be required.
Most state parks and trails will be open from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m.
Programs and events are posted on the DNR Events calendar.
New merchandise is available at select properties, including decorative stickers designed by DNR staff. Join us to celebrate National Trails Day, which falls on Saturday, June 6 during Free Fun Weekend.  Grab your family and friends and head outdoors for Free Fun Weekend! Consider taking the trail less traveled and visiting some lesser-known "hidden gem" state properties. New to state parks? We can help you plan the perfect adventure.

Nature Saturday for Families

 - Saturday, June 6        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

Outdoor Skills - Wilderness Weekends with Emily
- Saturday, June 6                   9:30am-11:30 am
- Holzinger Trails, 25 W. Lake BLVD, Winona MN

There are many different aspects to consider when analyzing survival scenarios such as food sources, shelter, first aid, navigation, and more. Bring your family out to the Holzinger Trails to learn about the basics of survival and enjoy the start of summer! This program is designed to be kid-friendly as we discuss the basic needs of survival and do some fun interactive activities to go along with each newly learned skill. 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

Camouflage Walk
- Saturday, June 6                 1:00-2:00 pm
- Whitewater State Park Visitor Center, 19041 Hwy 74, Altura, MN

Can you find hidden creatures? How do animals "hide," and why is it important for their survival? Use your senses on an easy outdoor walk to discover why and how camouflage is an important adaptation for animals at Whitewater! This program is suitable for kids and adults of all ages. Sponsor: Whitewater State Park

Image - Whitewater State Park

Mammal Creature Features for Kids

 - Saturday, June 6          3:00-5:00 pm

 - Whitewater State Park beach,  19041 Hwy 74, Altura, MN

Whitewater State Park is home to a variety of mammals, both large and small, all of which have amazing creature features and contribute to our ecosystem in different ways. Check out pelts, skulls, and learn more about these animals firsthand with a park ranger. Drop in to our learning station anytime 3:00 - 5:00 p.m. near the Whitewater Beach restroom shelter. Sponsor: Whitewater State Park

Meet Live Raptors
- Saturday, June 6                7-8:00pm
- Wildcat Mountain State Park amphitheater, E13660 Hwy 33, Ontario, WI 54651
Join Abbey Krumrie, from River Valley Raptors, for a free interactive program about raptors. Meet some live raptors and learn about the differences between their adaptations. Please, no pets, because they may scare the raptors. Meet at the Amphitheater. This event is weather-dependent. Event Contact: Emily Alf, emily.alf@wisconsin.gov, 608-337-4775. Sponsor: Friends of Wildcat Mountain State Park

Driftless Eco-Explorers - Children's Program
- Monday, June 8              11:00am
- meet outside Holmen Public Library, 121 W. Legion St, Homen WI
Enjoy a nature walk, stroies and activities designed to foster eco-literacy and fun for youth and their grown-ups. Explore a local trail as summer marches along at this free, approximately 45 minute program. Weather permitting. For more information, call (608) 526-4198. Sponsor: La Crosse County Holmen Library

Kids Driftless Outdoor Adventure Camp

 - June 9-11                1:00-3:00pm                              Cost: $45/student

 - Register at La Crescent-Hokah Community Education           507 895-4484

Sponsor: La Crescent-Hokah Community Education/Driftless Drifters Hiking Club

Tom the Creature Teacher
- Wednesday, June 10              10:00 am
- Houston Public Library, 210 West Spruce St, Houston 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: Houston Public Library

Preschool Nature Explorers - Wild About Wildflowers

 - Wednesday, June 10              10-11:00 am

 - 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: Wild About Flowers. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Meet at the park’s main picnic shelter. Sponsors: Frontenac State Park Association/Project Get Outdoors

Music with Will Family Event
- Wedneday June 10
- 12:30-1:15 pm Holmen Public Library, 121 W. Legion St, Holmen WI
- 3:30-4:30 pm Campbell Library, 2548 Lakeshore Drive (French Island), La Crosse WI
- 6:30-7:30 pm West Salem Library, 702 Industrial Dr, West Salem WIA musician and naturalist from Minnesota, Will performs original music for kids with a focus on positivity, humor, and learning through curiousity. His environmentally-themed music is guaranteed to get kids moving, grooving, laughing and singing! No registration required. All ages welcome. Sponsor: La Crosse County Library

Nature Knowledge - Bountiful Butterflies
- Thursday, June 11              10:00-11:00 am
- Windom Park, 260 Harriet St, Winona, MN

Come learn about our amazing butterflies. We will take a short walk to catch butterflies so we can observe them up close. Bring your own net if you have one or use one of the park’s. We will also do a fun butterfly craft. Join Winona Public Library and naturalists from Whitewater State Park at Windom Park to interactively learn about the plants & animals in our beautiful driftless area. We’ll start with a brief nature education piece, followed by activities and crafts related to the topic. This is great for ages 6 and up. Children under age 8 must be accompanied by an adult.  Sponsor: Winona Public Library

Driftless Eco-Explorers - Children's Program
- Thursday, June 11                 11:00am
- meet at Great River Landing, 101 Irvin St, Onalaska WI
Enjoy a nature walk, stroies and activities designed to foster eco-literacy and fun for youth and their grown-ups. Explore a local trail as summer marches along at this free, approximately 45 minute program. Weather permitting. For more information, call (608) 781-9568. Sponsor: La Crosse County Onalaska Library

Animals on the Road
- Thursday, June 11              3:00pm
- La Crescent Community Building, 336 S. 1st St, La Crescent MN

Join us to meet a live animal ambassador and learn about wildlife with an Eagle Bluff professional educator! This interactive learning experience will spark curiosity, build environmental awareness, and inspire a meaningful connection with wildlife. Free and open to all ages. This program is sponsored by a Legacy grant through the Arts and Cultural Heritage fund, made possible through SELCO. Find more library events in the SELCO region at legacy.selco.info/calendar. Sponsors:La Crescent Public Library

Driftless Impacts: Factors That Influence Our Flora and Fauna

 - Friday, June 12               3:00-4:00pm

 - Iowisota Retreat and Ducation Center, 2472 IA-26, Lansing, Iowa

Geology, climate, soils, and land use history have impacted the occurrence and distribution of plants on our landscape. Join us for an informational presentation on the plants and animals that make our landscape special, and how they got there. Cost is a suggested free-will donation of $5/person. Register here. This presentation has been prepared specifically for the “Singles in Agriculture” tour, but it is open to the public. The talk will consist of a slide presentation that will include maps/historical photographs of the landscape and photographs of some of the flora and fauna that make this area special. After the 45-minute talk, there will be opportunity to either go for a short interpretive walk in the woods or sit and relax in the Gathering Room with a cup of tea/coffee. There should be ample opportunity for questions/discussion. The presentation is provided by Linda Haugen. Linda recently retired from a career as a forest health specialist with the US Forest Service. Linda grew up on the Iowisota property, moving here with her parents in 1968, but spent her career working away from here. Linda and Dennis built the new residence/retreat center and moved back to northeast Iowa in 2023. Both Linda and Dennis have a wealth of knowledge about natural resources in general, and about Iowisota woodlands specifically. Trees are their thing. Sponsor: Iowisota Retreat and Education Center

Free Minnesota Parks Day
- Saturday, June 13
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. Additional date for free park days in 2026: Friday, November 27, 2025. Sponsor: MN DNR

Audiobook Walk

 - Saturday, June 13           8:30 am 

 - Wagon Wheel Trail, meet at the pedestrian bridge.

Bring your headphones and your favorite walking shoes and spend some time with the audiobook of your choice as we hit the La Crescent trails together! We’ll meet at a local trailhead and walk together, then stop for refreshments at a local business afterward. Parking available in the lot next to the bridge, behind

the Wieser Professional Building, 33 S. Walnut St.  Refreshments and social at Groovy Grounds after the hike. Sponsor: La Crescent Public Library

Bats of Whitewater - Bat Count

 - Saturday, June 13            8:30-9:30 am

Whitewater State Park North Picnic Pavilion,  19041 Hwy 74, Altura, MN

Learn about Minnesota's bat population and the dreaded White Nose Syndrome that threatens their world. We will separate fact from fiction about these fascinating little animals. Program participants will aid in ongoing scientific research at the park by counting bats emerging from their daytime slumber. Sponsor: Whitewater State Park

Prairie Dreams - A Trail of Quilts

 - Saturday, June 13        10am - 5:00pm

 - Frontenac (MN) State Park, 29223 County 28 Blvd, Frontenac, MN

Experience the quilts of over 125 artists as inspired by their dreams of the prairie and displayed along a trail in Frontenac State Park. Incorporating a prairie’s elemental aspects of earth, wind, and fire, see quilts based on stories passed down through generations, evoking hope for the future, and representing daydreams of clouds scudding across the sky while listening to songbirds nearby.

• Come and talk to quilters about their designs and inspirations.
• Learn about how select quilts reveal facts or flights of fancy about the prairie environment that Frontenac State Park preserves for present and future generations.
• Enjoy refreshments, vote for your favorite quilt, and enter a drawing for a free Minnesota State Park Pass.

​Quilts will be displayed along a mowed grass trail so you may encounter them at your leisure. See website regarding accessibility options. Rain date: June 20, 2026. Sponsor: Frontenac State Park Association

Geology of the Driftless 

 - Saturday, June 13         10 am -11:30 am

 - Forestville Mystery Cave (MN) 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

Intro to Camping
- Saturday, June 13     11-:00am - noon
 - Prairie Island Nature Trails Winona, MN

Join us for a fun intro to camping event where we will have various stations set up to learn about all of the camping basics! We will discuss how to set up a tent, the process of starting (and keeping) a fire going, how to cook over an open fire, hiking tips, and more! If you are new to camping or looking to connect with others in the community who are passionate about camping and getting outdoors then this is the event for you! This is a great event to attend alone or bring the whole family — all are welcome to join in the fun. Free to Attend! Registration required. Sponsor: Winona Outdoor Collaborative

Geology Walk to Chimney Rock

 - Saturday, June 13          6:00-7:00 pm

 - Whitewater (MN) State Park Chimney Rock Trailhead,  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. Sponsor: Whitewater State Park

Universe in the Park

 - Saturday, June 13          8:15 pm
- Perrot State (WI) Park, W26247 Sullivan Rd, Trempealeau, WI
This is a free, in-person rain or shine Universe in the Park event hosted by Perrot State Park in Trempealeau, WI. No registration required for this talk. Please call 608-534-6409 with questions. A typical UitP session begins just after sunset with a 30-40 minute talk and slide show about astronomy. While particular topics are left up to the presenters, they usually give a broad overview of one or two astronomy topics. Recent astronomical news is frequently discussed, such as the discovery of new solar systems, the demotion of Pluto, and the latest results from the Hubble Space Telescope. At the conclusion of the talk, weather permitting, we set up a moderate aperture (8″-10″) telescope and provide park visitors the opportunity to view available astronomical objects. UitP sessions run as long as there are people interested in looking through the telescope, and the parks typically close before the interest has been sated.Though all are welcome, the talk is best suited for ages 8+, and telescope viewing for ages 4+. Presenter Abygail (Abby) Waggoner is a post-doc at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. Sponsor: UW-Madison Badger Talks/Perrot State Park

Planting for Pollinators (see sessions below for links to more information)

 - Visitor's Center, Upper Mississippi River National Wildlife and Fish Refuge, N5727 Cty Rd Z, Onalaska, WI

 - Wednesday, June 17 - Please choose one of the following sessions to attend

• 10:00–11:00 AM: For adults: This session will be geared toward adults, though everyone is welcome. Join us for a presentation highlighting the importance of native pollinator plants and the simple ways people can help support bees, birds, butterflies, and other wildlife at home. Next, re-pot a plant plug or grab a seedling to take home!

• 1:00–2:00 PM: For families and children: This session features a very brief pollinator talk followed by the same hands-on planting activity. All children must attend with an adult.

Please arrive a few minutes early to find your seat before the presentation begins. Come wearing clothes that can get a little dirty and with a readiness to stick your hands in some soil! Registration is not required, but space and supplies are limited. All materials will be provided. If you plan to attend with a large group, please call ahead to ensure we can accommodate you. National Pollinator Week is an annual nationwide celebration! FOr more info, please contact Katie Julian, 608-769-6947. During this week, communities come together to raise awareness, celebrate these essential species, and share simple, meaningful ways to help ensure their survival for future generations. Sponsor: Upper Mississippi River National Wildlife and Fish Refuge

Growing Sprouts: Nature-Based Early Literacy
Water Exploration with Eagle Bluff Environmental Learning Center
- Thursday, June 18                10:00-11:00am
 - Lake Lodge at Lake Winona, 113 Lake Park Dr, Winona, MN
Eagle Bluff educators will bring all the gear needed to look for macroinvertebrates, amphibians and other possible animals at Lake Winona on the beach behind Lake Lodge. Adults are required to be with children at all times and are responsible for any children attending with them.This program series from Winona Public Library for ages 3-6 and a caregiver is focused on using natural spaces to practice building blocks of early literacy: talk, write, read, and play! We’ll be outdoors for the whole program, so dress for the weather. Sturdy shoes are important, as we’ll spend part of the time on Holzinger Trail. Adults are required to be with children at all times. No pre-registration required. Sponsor: Winona Public Library

Pollinator Pals with Happy Dancing Turtles

 -Thursday, June 18          4:00 pm

 - La Crescent Community Building, 336 S. 1st St, La Crescent MN

Buzz, flutter, and fly along with Happy Dancing Turtle as we explore the amazing world of pollinators. Discover why pollinators are so important and go on a pollinator hunt in your local park! Sponsor:La Crescent Public Library

 

What is Blooming at Kellogg Weaver Dunes 
 - Friday June 19           9:00 - 11:3 am

 - The Nature Conservancy’s Cox Unit, Kellogg MN
We will meet at the Kellogg MN Kwik Trip and caravan to this site on the Lower Sand Prairie.This will be an easy hike, no sand dunes, or hills, but the terrain may have long grass and other obstacles. We will stay away from the poison ivy area. We will focus on Milkweeds and their importance, Goat’s Rue, Puccoon, Thimbleweed, Spiderwort, Prairie Larkspur, White Wild Indigo, Blue-Eyed Grass, and Hoary Frost Weed. The public is welcome at this free event; registration is limited to ten participants. To register contact Nancy Falkum at 651-764-5605 or email guthrie55981@gmail.com

Prairie Loop Bird Walk

 - Saturday, June 20          9;00 - 11:00 am

 - Frontenac (MN) State Park Ranger Station, 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 parking lot. Sponsor: Frontenac State Park Association

Driftless Area BioBlitz - Precious Prairies

 - Saturday, June 20        10:00 am - noon

Stry Prarie, Hixon Forest, La Crosse WI

We will meet experts from Coulee Region Chapter of The Prairie Enthusiasts at Stry Prairie in Hixon Forest Park in La Crosse, WI. All ages and skill levels are welcome to learn, observe, and explore with us! We use iNaturalist to identify and upload images to a community science database. Add your observations to iNaturalist and or to your own personal passport that we provide. Get a sticker and a button and help us add more community scientists to Driftless Area BioBlitz. Sponsors: The Nature Place and Coulee Region Chapter of the Prairie Enthusiasts

Nature Journaling

 - Saturday, June 20            10:00 am - noon

- Wildcat Mountain (WI) State Park, E13660 Hwy 33, Ontario, WI
Join Wildcat Mountain staff members as we learn all about nature journaling. What is nature journaling? Why do it? How do we journal nature? Get creative and make your own homemade journal. Take a short walk and find a place to make your first journal entry! Meet at the upper picnic shelter. This event will be held rain or shine. Sponsor: Wildcat Mountain State Park

Owls Around Us
- Saturday, June 20                     8:00-9:00pm

Whitewater State Park Visitor's Center, 19041 Hwy 74, Altura, MN

Learn about owls, dissect an owl pellet, and maybe even hear an owl in the twilight hours! You will leave knowing what to look for as an owl-tastic nature explorer at Whitewater! (and back home too). Sponsor: Whitewater State Park

Star Splitters Astronomy Program

 - Saturday, June 20                    8:30- 10:30pm

- Wyalusing State Park, Huser Observatory, , 13081 State Park Lane, Bagley, WI

Star Splitters host freee monthly programs with presentations and telescope viewings. Contact: www.starsplitters.org, starsplitterswsp@gmail.com Sponsors: Star Splitters of Wyalusing

Bee House Workshop: Paving the Way for Pollinators with Heidi Bacon
- Tuesday, June 23              11:00am
- Hokah Public Library, 211 Main St, Hokah MN
Heidi will showcase her artwork pairing native Minnesota pollinators with the native plants they rely on, while discussing the importance of supporting pollinators in home landscapes. Participants will receive native Minnesota wildflower seeds and create bee houses using recycled materials. This event is geared to adults, but all ages are welcome. Kids might need some help from an adult. Sponsor: Hokah Public Library

Exploring the Richard J. Dorer Memorial Hardwood Forest
- Saturday, June 23                 6:00pm
- Houston Nature Center, 215 West Plum St, Houston MN
This program highlights the life and legacy of Richard J. Dorer, who dedicated decades to protecting Minnesota’s wildlife and restoring trout streams and forests in southeast Minnesota. Project Get Outdoors Coordinator and Naturalist Sara Holger shares the history of the Richard J. Dorer Memorial Hardwood State Forest and explores its unique natural features and sites open to the public. Sponsors: Houston Public Library and Project Get Outdoors (GO).

   

Bird and Bug Brigade Nature Hike
- Thursday , June 25                 4:00 pm
- La Crescent Community Building, 336 S. 1st St, La Crescent MN
Have you ever listened to the chirping birds and wondered which ones they were? Imagine finding a caterpillar and knowing which butterfly or moth it would will become. The book "Small Hands Can Help - Minnesota" is all about nature and adventure! Join author and iNaturalist Teresa Veraguth as we start at the Community Building to listen to a poem about how the loons change their eye color, then we'll head over to Wagon Wheel Trail (starting at the pedestrian bridge) for the “Bird & Bug Brigade” nature hike. Grown-ups: Bring a smartphone to learn community science apps or have your kiddos just use their eyes and ears to find the items on scavenger hunt handouts. Sponsors: La Crescent Public Library and Friends,/Merchant Bank

Will Bjorndal Music Concert

 - Friday, June 26,             3:00-4:00pm

 - Winona Public Library, 151 W. 5th St, Winona MN

Join Will Sings Songs at Winona Public Library on a musical adventure through the Minnesotan outdoors! An experienced naturalist, Will performs original nature-themed songs, along with some songs that are just plain fun! Driven by audience participation, Will is guaranteed to get kids moving, grooving, laughing, and singing. This high energy performance focuses on positivity, joy, and learning through curiosity. This program is made possible by the people of Minnesota through Minnesota’s Arts and Cultural Heritage Library Legacy fund, in cooperation with our regional library system, SELCO. Sponsor: Winona Public Library

Geology of the Driftless 

- Saturday, June 27         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

Human History of the Upper Mississippi River

- Sunday, June 28             1:30-2:30pm

 - Iowisota Retreat and Ducation Center, 2472 IA-26, Lansing, Iowa        

Historian Christine Wellman Hall will share insights on the human history of the Upper Mississippi River Valley, from first nations to present time. Light refreshments (tea/coffee and cookies). Optional short hike after session. Cost is by donation. Register here. We will have a free-will donation jar available. We are limiting participation to 30 due to size of room, so reservations are necessary. The program will be provided by Christine Wellman Hall. Christine is very familiar with this landscape; her family lived on the Iowisota property during her formative middle school years (her dad was the Kee High principal), and she did her college senior thesis about Fish Farm Mounds. Christine’s work experiences include the Delta Queen riverboat, Effigy Mounds National Monument, and Norskedalen Nature and Heritage Center. These prepared her well for her current job as a featured History speaker on Mississippi River Cruises by American Cruise Lines! We are excited to welcome Chris back to her childhood “home turf” to share her insights with us.

Do you know of other June 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 IA.