Monday, February 23, 2026

Let's Get Hiking and Learning - March 2026

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

I will be updating this post 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.

Golden morning sky

Late February Events
 - Thursday, February 26                10-11:00 am
 - Effigy Mounds National Monument, 151 Hwy 76, Harper's Ferry IA
Join a park ranger for a mindfulness walk on the Yellow River Boardwalk. This is one in a winter series offering weekly programing for our new Golden Eagles Club at the park. These programs are intended for mature adults but open to anyone. Programs may be a variety of activities and topics and will run weekly until April. For a full schedule of the weekly presentations (book  discussions, hands-on work and presentations), please visit their events website .Sponsor: Effigy Mounds National Monument

 - Saturday, February 28         11:00am -3:00pm
 - Kickapoo Valley Reserve, S3661 WI 131, La Farge WI
 - $20/per person with KVR Annual Pass/$25 per person without an annual pass
We will caravan to trailheads and hike with a guide up to 8 miles (depending on ice conditions) to view a variety of ice formations that form over rock shelters and on rocks, on the Kickapoo Valley Reserve. There will be opportunities to opt out of the Trek a couple of times during the day. Ice hikes can traverse steep, slippery and varied terrain, both on and off trail. Hikes should be considered strenuous and require previous hiking experience and proper gear.
Suggested Gear: Hiking boots or shoes (depending on temperature, winter hiking boots are suggested); Wool or wool blend socks; Foot Chains (like Yak Traks); Hiking poles (optional but suggested)
Outdoor clothing for active pursuits - (wicking layers); Gloves and hats - balaclavas work well if it is cold, loose scarves are discouraged because they can get hung up on trees and branches; Personal pack with water bottle and snack; Phone or packable camera; Change of socks.
Each person should register separately. Contact us at 608-625-2960 or kickapoo.reserve@krm.state.wi.us.  Register here Sponsor: Kickapoo Valley Reserve

 - Saturday, February 28                6-8:00 p.m.
 - Frontenac State Park, 29223 County 28 Blvd, Frontenac, MN

Come enjoy an evening in the park by candlelight! Snowshoe, ski, or hike the trail along the bluff top with beautiful views of the Mississippi River Valley, lit by dozens of luminaries and the light of the full moon. Warm up at campfires at either end of the trail or enjoy some light refreshments by the wood stove in the warming shelter. Refreshments provided by the Frontenac State Park Association volunteer group. Vehicles entering the park are required to have a State Park vehicle permit. Permits are $7 per day or $35 for an annual sticker. Skiers 16 and older will need a MN Ski Pass to participate. Ski passes are $10 for a day pass, $25 for the year, or $70 for three years. A limited number of snowshoes will also be available for rent for $6 per pair. Severe weather or other factors may cause this event to be changed or canceled. For updates, or if you have questions, call Frontenac State Park at 651-299-3000. Sponsor: Frontenac State Park Association and Frontenac State Park

March Events

In last month's edition of events listings, we shared some amazing 40 hour training courses for Master Naturalist volunteer certification. All of them occurred during the day and in person. I "get" the challenges this presents for working folks. So I want to share this new online summer MN Master Naturalist training that I noticed coming up this spring with evening sessions and morning sessions!

Registration is now open for an online Big Woods, Big Rivers Minnesota Master Naturalist Course. We offer either a Morning or Evening section which you will be able to choose when you pay.
Summer Morning - Thursdays  from 9:30 - 11:00 am, weekly May 27-August 5  or
Summer Evening - Thursdays from 6:30 - 8:00 pm, weekly May 27-August 5
The Big Woods, Big Rivers course explores the natural and cultural history of Minnesota’s temperate deciduous forests – the area that runs from the northwest corner to the southeastern region of the state. The class will cover the same topics (geology, water, plant communities, wildlife, human impacts, interpretation) as an in-person class, but will take place mostly online, using Zoom for class meetings and the learning platform Canvas. One in-person field trip is also REQUIRED in the Twin Cities metro area on either Friday, July 10 or Saturday, July 11 from 10:00 am-5:00pm. The class will meet online every week from May 27 through August 5, 2026. In addition to class meetings, participants are expected to spend an additional 3 hours working independently between online sessions to complete assignments such as reading the text, viewing lecture videos, researching on the internet, visiting a nature location near home, and completing journal entries. To successfully complete the course, participants will be expected to attend all class Zoom sessions, an in-person field trip and complete a small group capstone project. Sponsor: University of Minnesota Extension

Maple Syrup Making Demonstration
 - March dates and times - TBD (please pre-register to be informed of dates when scheduled)
 - Iowisota Retreat and Education Center, 2472 Hwy 26, Lansing, IA
Come join us to learn how maple syrup is made! This is a free demonstration and learning opportunity; we will have a free will donation jar out if you want to contribute toward costs of production and take home a bottle of syrup. NOTE: Dates and times will be set once we know when sap will start flowing. We plan to schedule some weekend times in March, but would consider sessions during the week if there is interest. Programming/participation: No Cost; We ask for an RSVP so we know how many people we might have. This is a small-volume production, with 25-35 tapped maple trees on-site. You will get to observe and/or participate in the steps of making maple syrup: Setting a tap in a tree, collecting sap from the maple trees, reverse osmosis to remove some of the water, boiling the concentrated sap to remove more water and caramelize the sugars, filtering and bottling. And, of course, tasting! We plan to start the short hike at 1:30, followed by demonstrations of the other steps around 2:15; so if you are not able to do the short walk, feel free to join us a bit later. Sap flow is highly temperature dependent, so weather conditions will affect whether sap is flowing during your visit. We expect that you might want to spend up to 2 hours learning about the various steps. Owners Dennis and Linda Haugen are both foresters and will explain the process and answer questions about all the steps, including management of the trees. They have been making syrup on-site since 2014, and Linda has known these woods since 1968. If you would like to do a visit at another time with an after-school or homeschool group, let us know and we can set something up. Maple syrup (limited quantities available): Suggested donation of $18/pint; bring cash or check. The tastings are free. Register here. Sponsor: Iowisota Retreat and Education Center

 - Sunday, March 1         1:30 pm
 - Lower Hixon parking lot
Hixon Forest - Regarded by many, the outdoor gem of La Crosse, known for its extensive trail network.
Split into two regions, Upper and Lower, Hixon Forest offers activities for hikers, mountain bikers, runners, birdwatchers, etc. We will enjoy hiking LOWER HIXON in this event. We will have an easy 3 mile option and for those who want a little more a 5.5 mile option. What they include: 3 Mile Option: The lower Bicentennial/Hickory Trails Loop. Includes exploring the Flury Farmstead ruins. 5.5 Mile Option: We will begin on the same route as the 3 Mile, but will climb the bluffs via Savanna Trail to connect with Vista before descending back to our cars. Also includes Flury Farm, Lookout Prairie Overlook and Vista Prairie Overlook. DIFFICULTY: 3 Mile Option: Easy. 5.5 Mile Option: Moderate. Both start at the Lower Hixon Forest Trailhead Parking Lot  (https://maps.app.goo.gl/sm3ixXjTLxnR6ook8) Sponsor: Blufflands Hiking Group

 - Saturday, March 3              5:00pm
 - Gateway Trailhead, 3020 Grandad Bluff Rd, La Crosse WI
A crowd favorite! ORA will again host a series of candlelit walks!
This is a free, all-ages event that begins at 5pm, and lasts until 7pm, or until we run out of fire wood!
This location utilizes a path that is considered "easy to moderate" to navigate. Candles will light the route, but if you'd like to see clearly where you're stepping, consider wearing a headlamp or bringing a flashlight. These walks are self-guided. Snacks and beverages will be on site, including fire pits with s'mores! Sponsor: ORA: Outdoor Recreation Alliance

 - March 6-8     all day
 - 126 E. Cedar St, Houston MN
Live owl programs, kids crafts, owl prowls, speakers and other activities plus much more at this event International Owl Center in Houston MN. Sponsor: International Owl Center, Houston MN

 - Saturday, March 7           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

Hands-on maple syrup making at Whitewater (MN) State Park

 - Saturday, March 7      10-11:30 am
 - Whitewater (MN) State Park, Visitor Center,  19041 Hwy 74, Altura, MN
Celebrate spring in Whitewater State Park's sugar bush! This activity will introduce the long history of maple syrup and sugar making, as well as the equipment and procedures used. Participants will tap trees, gather and boil sap and best of all taste pure maple syrup! Reservations are required and space is limited. Sign up by calling 507-312-2301 or email Jeremy.Darst@state.mn.us  Sponsor: Whitewater State Park
 
 - Saturday, March 7      1--2:30 pm
 - Whitewater (MN) State Park, Visitor Center,  19041 Hwy 74, Altura, MN
Celebrate spring in Whitewater State Park's sugar bush! This activity will introduce the long history of maple syrup and sugar making, as well as the equipment and procedures used. Participants will tap trees, gather and boil sap and best of all taste pure maple syrup! Reservations are required and space is limited. Sign up by calling 507-312-2301 or email Jeremy.Darst@state.mn.us  Sponsor: Whitewater State Park

Online webinar - Learn About MN's Wilderness Inquiry
 - Monday, March 9         10:00 am
 - email muse.abdi@olmsteadcounty.gov for Microsoft Teams link
Join presenter Tracy Larson to learn about the impactful work of MN's Wilderness Inquiry. Their mission is to connect people of all ages, backgrounds, identities and abilities through outdoor adventures - so everyone can equitably experience the benefits of time spent in nature. Learn about inclusive, nature-based programming; explore partnership opportunities with Wilderness Inquiry and discover how outdoor experiences support health and learning. Tracy Larson is the Education and Day Program Manager at Wilderness Inquiry. She leads the development and planning of outdoor education programs for K-12 schools through WI's Canoemobile program. She collaborates closely with teachers and school districts to create meaningful outdoor learning experiences that support academic success and student wellbeing. Sponsor: Southeast MN Park Rx Coalition

Driftless Eco-Explorers for Children
 - March 11 and March 18     11:00-11:45 am
Sponsor: La Crosse County Library



 - Wednesday, March 11             10:00 am - noon
 Whitewater (MN) State Park, Visitor Center,  19041 Hwy 74, Altura, MN
Join us March 11th at 10 am for our monthly A.L.P. at the Whitewater State Park visitor center (Advanced Learning Program) hosted by the Friends of Whitewater State Park! In March, we welcome Jeff Green, retired Hydrogeologist. He will be taking us on a journey through the science behind how the surface and subsurface geology effect the way water moves through the landscape. He will be highlighting the unique features that characterize the Driftless region of Minnesota and how they differ from the rest of the state. Sponsor: Friends of Whitewater State Park

 - Saturday, March 14      10-11:30 am
 - Whitewater (MN) State Park, Visitor Center,  19041 Hwy 74, Altura, MN
Celebrate spring in Whitewater State Park's sugar bush! This activity will introduce the long history of maple syrup and sugar making, as well as the equipment and procedures used. Participants will tap trees, gather and boil sap and best of all taste pure maple syrup! Reservations are required and space is limited. Sign up by calling 507-312-2301 or email Jeremy.Darst@state.mn.us  Sponsor: Whitewater State Park
 
 - Saturday, March 14      1--2:30 pm
 - Whitewater (MN) State Park, Visitor Center,  19041 Hwy 74, Altura, MN
Celebrate spring in Whitewater State Park's sugar bush! This activity will introduce the long history of maple syrup and sugar making, as well as the equipment and procedures used. Participants will tap trees, gather and boil sap and best of all taste pure maple syrup! Reservations are required and space is limited. Sign up by calling 507-312-2301 or email Jeremy.Darst@state.mn.us  Sponsor: Whitewater State Park

Ferryville's  Bald Eagle Day https://www.facebook.com/Ferryvillewi
 - Saturday, March 21            9:30am-2:00pm
 - Ferryville (WI) Village Hall, 170 Pine St (off Hwy 35), Ferryville WI
Live raptors, educational programs, eagle art by students, kids crafts, hooting contest and bald eagle nest building. Sponsor: Ferryville Tourism

 - Saturday, March 21      10-11:30 am
 - Whitewater (MN) State Park, Visitor Center,  19041 Hwy 74, Altura, MN
Celebrate spring in Whitewater State Park's sugar bush! This activity will introduce the long history of maple syrup and sugar making, as well as the equipment and procedures used. Participants will tap trees, gather and boil sap and best of all taste pure maple syrup! Reservations are required and space is limited. Sign up by calling 507-312-2301 or email Jeremy.Darst@state.mn.us  Sponsor: Whitewater State Park
 
 - Saturday, March 21      1--2:30 pm
 - Whitewater (MN) State Park, Visitor Center,  19041 Hwy 74, Altura, MN
Celebrate spring in Whitewater State Park's sugar bush! This activity will introduce the long history of maple syrup and sugar making, as well as the equipment and procedures used. Participants will tap trees, gather and boil sap and best of all taste pure maple syrup! Reservations are required and space is limited. Sign up by calling 507-312-2301 or email Jeremy.Darst@state.mn.us  Sponsor: Whitewater State Park

 - Thursday, March 26               10-11:00 am
 - Effigy Mounds National Monument, 151 Hwy 76, Harper's Ferry IA
Join a park ranger for a mindfulness walk on the Yellow River Boardwalk. This is one in a winter series offering weekly programing for our new Golden Eagles Club at the park. These programs are intended for mature adults but open to anyone. Programs may be a variety of activities and topics and will run weekly until April. For a full schedule of the weekly presentations (book  discussions, hands-on work and presentations), please visit their events website. Sponsor: Effigy Mounds National Monument

 - Saturday, March 28      10-11:30 am
 - Whitewater (MN) State Park, Visitor Center,  19041 Hwy 74, Altura, MN
Celebrate spring in Whitewater State Park's sugar bush! This activity will introduce the long history of maple syrup and sugar making, as well as the equipment and procedures used. Participants will tap trees, gather and boil sap and best of all taste pure maple syrup! Reservations are required and space is limited. Sign up by calling 507-312-2301 or email Jeremy.Darst@state.mn.us  Sponsor: Whitewater State Park
 
 - Saturday, March 28      1--2:30 pm
 - Whitewater (MN) State Park, Visitor Center,  19041 Hwy 74, Altura, MN
Celebrate spring in Whitewater State Park's sugar bush! This activity will introduce the long history of maple syrup and sugar making, as well as the equipment and procedures used. Participants will tap trees, gather and boil sap and best of all taste pure maple syrup! Reservations are required and space is limited. Sign up by calling 507-312-2301 or email Jeremy.Darst@state.mn.us  Sponsor: Whitewater State Park

Do you know of other March 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.

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Friday, February 13, 2026

Lending a "Nature" Hand

There's always something to be said for giving back as a trail user and nature lover. As certified Master Naturalist volunteers (MNV), my colleagues and I throughout Minnesota and Wisconsin contribute at least 40 hours annually in volunteer work. Most of the MNV I know contribute far more.

This service ethic has helped countless outdoor-centered organizations through our contributions of time and effort to fight invasives, maintain natural areas and trails, serve on parks and forests Friends groups, assist communities by serving on natural resource board, present interpretive programs.

But you don't have to be a MNV to lend a hand to help "nature." Your time, effort and/or donations can have a huge impact.

Here are a few opportunities I have run across just this past week. Won't you please consider lending a hand - or giving a donation if your body says "I can't do that anymore."

Nature Backpack Project
Project Get Outdoors, partnering with Lark Toys in Kellogg MN and Janky Gear in Rochester MN, is asking for help so they can create "nature backpacks" to distribute to kids who are sheltering in place during ICE operations in their communities. The backpacks will contain nature-themed books, puzzles, games, field guides, and sensory pouches filled with agates, fossils, shells, rocks, and gemstones - bringing the calming, healing power of nature indoors.

Gently used or new backpacks can be dropped off at Janky Gear (611 N. Broadway Ave, Rochester) as well as agates, fossils, shells, rocks, and gemstones you might have and want to donate. Deadline for backpack, sensory object donations: February 28. 

You can also donate directly on-line through the Project Get Outdoors website Or mail donations to: Project Get Outdoors, PO Box 244, Wabasha, MN 55981 Project GO is a 501c3 non-profit organization and all donations are tax-deductible. 

Volunteers Needed for Nature Restoration Work
This has been a busy year for cutting invasive brush and trees, saving and spreading seed and other tasks on Driftless prairies and in forests. Volunteers willing to get time outdoors and meet some incredible stewards of the land are always needed and welcomed. Again, if your body isn't able, these organizations gratefully accept donations to help them.

From a recent FB post: "If you have cabin fever, cold weather is actually perfect for work like this. Wet snow makes for wet humans. Dry snow makes for warm, comfortable humans. Most people shed their outer layers soon after starting. If you are looking for a chance to get out and do good near where you live with other members of your community, find one of our work parties. This work can be strenuous, but we've got logs and limbs of all sizes, so you can pick your challenge! Check out our Events Calendar" Our nearby chapters are the Minnesota Driftless and Coulee Region. Donations are also welcome.

The work MVC does on its many nature preserves is extraordinary. While opportunities abound outside, they can also use help in other support projects that can match your skills. And again, sometimes the support you give might be monetary and that is an important way to lend a helping hand as well!

Trail Work and Maintenance

Headquartered in the La Crosse area, ORA does a tremendous amount of shared biking and hiking trail building and trail maintenance in the blufflands of Hixon Forest and now at their Community Trails Farm. They train and set up regularly scheduled trail work and are always looking for folks to pitch in. It's a great way for hikers to contribute to the trails we use.

And they just put out a survey asking trail users to help them prioritize trail work for the upcoming season. Hikers, let your voice be heard and fill in this brief survey! The survey closes on February 27 and takes less than 3 minutes! It's an opportunity to prioritize some "hike only" trails (there are currently just .5 miles of hike-only) for their farm.

Hope you can lend a hand to make sure lots of people can enjoy our beautiful Driftless area!

See you on the trails.

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Wednesday, February 11, 2026

Here Comes the Freeze Thaw Cycle

Image- Nola Larson

I know you know, but you know...

The next week+ of predicted high temps that presage coming spring are definitely going to have a deleterious effect on trails across the Driftlesss region. The freeze-thaw cycle will be kicking in despite the fact that the calendar is clearly saying February. 


I'm sharing our local ORA group's timely Wednesday Facebook post to remind you, followed by notice of road closure for access to Lower Hixon Trails.

Outdoor Recreation Alliance Facebook page


And here are trails to try that are paved/grassy/graveled to help you make alternate choices for your hiking destinations until trails firm up again.

Alternative Hiking Trails During Freeze/Thaw Cycles
See you on the trails!

You can read my column on seasonal hiking suggestions in the quarterly 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.
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Wednesday, February 4, 2026

Naturalist's Corner - Driftless Bluff Faces

I am so pleased to share this post from Linda Haugen. She and her husband Dennis own Iowisota, a nature-themed retreat and education center located in the Driftless area of Northeast Iowa. Both retired from the U.S. Forest Service, their family has stewarded the almost 200 acres of forested bluffs for over 50 years. They host retreats as well as programs like making wild-crafted pottery, soaps, cordials as well as hands-on foraging workshops, tree identification saunters, hikes and more. They warmly welcome everyone to the retreat center and are fonts of information. To find out more, please stop be their website.
In this beautifully written post, reprinted with permission from their January 31, 2026 Iowisota blog, Linda shares information and muses on the towering Driftless bluff faces and what they mean to us - and to the flora and fauna that inhabit them.

The weathered faces reveal lifetimes of adversity. They aren’t human faces; they are the rocky crags that look out over the Mississippi River. Each face is unique and beautiful, full of character. Their expressions change throughout the seasons and even throughout the day, with the nuances of snow and cloud, shadow and sun.

The rocky faces of the bluffs reveal layers of limestone and dolomite of the ancient Paleozoic Plateau. This plateau of sedimentary rock was not scraped or buried by the last 3 to 4 glaciers, but it also wasn’t untouched. Meltwater floods cut valleys and reorganized the landscape, moving massive quantities of rocks and soil. Meanwhile, the rocky escarpments weathered to the faces that still watch over the now quieter rivers and valleys.



These faces have been present for a very long time, and they hide secrets. Some faces have rock overhangs and nooks forming protected pockets. Other people lived on this land for hundreds of years between when the last glacier left and when Europeans arrived. I wonder what I could find in those hidden cavities or shelters. Petroglyphs? Tools left behind? Other artifacts? I’m sure someone more athletic and braver than I would have long since explored the farthest reaches and removed any treasures, so most likely I would only find a few animal bones and other debris. Still, I do wonder what secrets the faces hide.

The faces are a place of refuge. Deep crevices in the cliffs offer protection from hot and cold extremes, and when fires swept up the hillside prairies, the rock faces escape the flames. The term “refugium” literally means a place that supports an isolated or relict population of an organism. Protected spaces can serve as refugia, and you may find rare and unique plants and animals on these sensitive sites. Words like karst topography, algific talus slopes, Pleistocene snail, and northern wild monkshood come up in conversation about refugia and the Driftless Area, but I don’t know if my local faces are home to any rare plants and animals.

The faces harbor danger, in the form of steep cliffs, unstable rocks, and venomous snakes. Nature doesn’t install guardrails to protect the foolhardy, and the edges are not always stable. There may be a ledge to stop my fall down the steep cliff, or there may not be. So, I keep a safe distance from the edge. The lower slopes of the bluffs are littered with boulders that were once part of a face, until erosion and gravity prevailed and they came crashing down. Rocks may break free at any time, but landslides and rock falls from the faces are more common in Spring (following the freeze-thaw cycle) and after heavy rains. And then there are the rattlesnakes. They shelter in the cracks that extend deep into/under the cliffs and bask in the sunshine on ledges and rock shelves. In fact, they need the deep cracks and fractures that lead back into protected dens where they can overwinter; that’s why we have rattlesnakes here in the Driftless Area, but not in the rest of Iowa. The timber rattlesnakes aren’t usually aggressive, but they don’t really like getting cornered or stepped on. I don’t like to be surprised by them any more than they like to be surprised, so I tread with caution.
At Iowisota, we live between two faces. We call the steep, bold face on the front of the “South Bluff” Cedar Point, because of the ancient, gnarly red cedars (junipers) that have grown protected on the rock cliff for hundreds of years. I’ve never measured the height of the drop from the top of Cedar Point, but my guess is perhaps 75’. The face on the “North Bluff” is less abrupt; this bluff has a east-west oriented ridge above a south-facing hillside “goat” prairie that feathers into a series of short rocky ledges (with snake-harboring crevices) along the southeast face. The ridge above the goat prairie provides amazing unobstructed views over the Mississippi River valley to the south. The east-facing front face is mostly hidden by the trees below but is still a long enough drop that I wouldn’t care to go down that way.


I’m rather fond of our faces, even with all their dangers, and sometimes because of their dangers. Sometimes I look out over the view that they have watched for so long and reflect on the changes to the River and landscape. The Mississippi River was once uncontrolled and wild, the Upper Iowa River meandered alongside the Mississippi for several miles and joined in within view of the faces. Influencers of the landscape included fire, floods and beavers. The past 250 years have brought new influencers, including intense agriculture, logging, fire suppression, channelization, fertilizer and chemical pollution, introduction of invasive species, etc. It is sobering to contemplate what we have done, and perplexing to contemplate what we should do now. Ancient rocks, towering trees, and singing birds remind me that nature endures, even though it changes. 

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Saturday, January 31, 2026

I Spy on the Trails - January 2026

I am taking a break from my monthly nature phenology posts to act as observer and witness to what has been happening in Minnesota.

During this frigid and snowy month, I have had time to observe my state -and this country - in a whole different way. The close phenological observations I keep of the natural world turned instead towards what has been going on with the ICE/border patrol surge northwest of me in the Twin Cities. 

What my eyes have seen has been horrific - and strengthening at the same time.

The horror:
  • Unbelievable cruelty by federal agents in tracking and detaining people of color, many of whom are US citizens - and all of whom deserve due process rights and human dignity while being detained.
  • The disappearing of children and parents without due process.
  • The indiscriminate violence of federal agents towards those peacefully bearing witness, filming and protecting their neighbors.
  • Cars of detained people with windows busted out left abandoned by federal agents on the street after seizing their owners.
  • The federal mission creep away from apprehending and deporting the "worst of the worst," to grabbing people off the street, again most often based on skin color, accent and dress.
  • The indiscriminate killing of witnessing community members who are near federal agent "gangs". The federal administration tell us not to believe our eyes as they smear and demonize these victims.  My friends, we are all Renee. We are all Alex. And we are all of the human beings who have lost their lives in federal immigration custody or on the streets so far in 2026: Keith Porter, Parady La, Heber Sanchaz Dominguez, Victor Manuael Diaz, Luis Beltran Yanez-Cruz, Luis Gustavo Nunez Caceres, and Reynaldo Lunas Campos
  • The lying and gaslighting of the the administration and its spokespeople demonizing Minnesotans and immigrants.
January 23, 2026 General Strike March, MN
David Guttenfelder, New York Times, Redux
The strength:
  • The general strikes that are being called and tens of thousands of people coming out in frigid temperatures in solidarity.
  • The rising up of neighbors to witness and protect their immigrant neighbors.
  • The community banding together to help escort neighbors to schools and daycares.
  • The generosity of the community and churches in providing food and support to immigrant families who are living in fear.
  • The many donations being gathered by small businesses and  given by individuals around the country in support of the above.
  • The whistlers, honkers and filmers who let us see with our own eyes what is really going on. 
  • Neighborhood networks tracking ICE in real time.
  • People from around the country and in many different capacities gathering in public to support the Twin Cities community and calling their Congressional representatives to speak firmly against the lawless behavior of federal agents.
  • People thinking - really thinking  - about what the first, second, fourth and tenth amendments mean in a time when their communities are being overrun by gangs that resemble slave patrols and not trained federal agents. 
Minnesota author Douglas Wood puts it succinctly when he asks if we will believe our eyes or lies. I keep hearing and thinking of the quote from George Orwell's book 1984: "The Party told you to reject the evidence of your eyes and ears. It is their final, most essential command."

Let's all believe our eyes and keep resisting efforts to dehumanize us and look for ways to create kindness, community and solidarity in resistance to this madness. Our close watch will help to keep democracy strong. Now is the time to stand up before it is too late.

Marge

If you are looking for ways to provide support to the community efforts to deal with the overwhelming incursion of federal agents terrorizing communities, the Stand With Minnesota website has an excellent directory.




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Wednesday, January 28, 2026

Let's Get Hiking and Learning - February 2026

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

I will be updating this post 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.


February Events

 - Course Dates: Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays, April 20 - May 1 (10am-3:30pm), with one field day Saturday April 25 (9am-4pm)
 - National Eagle Center, Wabasha MN
 MN Master Naturalist volunteers assist with stewardship projects in their local communities. To become a Master Naturalist Volunteer, a 40-hour training course offered through the UM-Extension Service is required. The Wabasha course is sponsored by Project Get Outdoors and will introduce participants to the natural history of the Driftless area through hands-on activities and filed trips. Topics include geology, wildlife, native plant communities, ecology, watersheds, human history and ways to share nature with children. Each sessions begins at the National Eagle Center and ten move outdoors for immersive tours of local nature areas. The fee for the course is $295 which includes course materials and supplies. Scholarships are available. Sponsors: UM-Extension Services, Project Get Outdoors.
[On a personal note - I took this course and received my certification in 2022 and it literally changed my life. Since that time I have contributed over 600 hours of volunteer work for communities in the Driftless including doing presentations and interpretive hikes, participating in stewardship projects, serving on local natural resource committees and publishing this blog. I highly recommend this instructor and Master Naturalist certification courses to expand your understanding of and knowledgeable dedication to nature and the outdoors.]

The Wisconsin Master Naturalist program is a network of well-informed volunteers dedicated to conservation service, leadership, and lifelong learning. The Master Naturalist training provides 40 hours of education in a variety of natural history topics and Master Naturalist service areas. Through expert-led trainings, Master Naturalists are equipped to address challenges facing the state by making positive impacts through stewardship, citizen science, and educational activities. Trainings have an emphasis on outdoor field experiences with some classroom instruction and are taught by professional natural resources educators and scientists. Once trained, Wisconsin Master Naturalists record 40 hours of service and 8 hours of advanced training each year to maintain certification and receive a recognition pin. Nearby certification trainings:
 - Kickapoo Valley Reserve, S3661 State Rd 131, La Farge WI
 - Cost: $300        Registration deadline: April 13, 2026
The Kickapoo Valley Reserve (KVR) is an 8,600-acre tract of land located in Vernon County, between the villages of La Farge and Ontario. Join KVR staff and regional experts to learn more about and experience topics such as the effects of climate change, the indigenous cultures, and ornithology. This training will be held two days in a row (Thursday/Friday) at various times from May to October to capture the phenological variation of the area. Each day will be on the Kickapoo Valley Reserve and may require short (<10 minutes) travel in personal vehicles. This training will require moderate physical stamina and may include hiking on and off trail in varied terrains, paddling a canoe, and learning in remote/backcountry spaces. 
  - Course Dates : 
Thurs, April 3, 3 pm - 8 pm and Fri May 1, 9 am - 4 pm
Thurs, June 4, 3 pm - 8 pm and Fri, June 5, 9 am - 4 pm
Thurs, Aug 13, 3 pm - 8 pm and Fri Aug 14, 9 am - 4 pm
Thurs, Sept 10, 3 pm - 8 pm and Fri, Sept 11, 9 am - 4pm
Sponsors: UW-Extension/Kickapoo Valley Reserve

 - Cost: $300        Registration deadline: October 5, 2026
The Outdoor Recreation Alliance (ORA Trails) is excited to bring the Master Naturalist program to La Crosse. The majority of the training will be held at the Community Trail Farm, a 290 acre sustainable recreation project just a few miles from downtown. Participants will explore the bluffs, streams, and prairies of this unique area, and experience firsthand what it takes to work toward ecological balance. Through the lens of land stewardship and sustainable recreation, ORA will connect with local and regional guest experts, modeling the interconnected sections of the Master Naturalist training. Using place-based experiential education, activities include best practice in trout stream restoration, rewilding of forests and prairies, sustainable trail design, and the power of storytelling. Accessibility and inclusion are pillars of the Community Trail Farm project, though there will be several 1-4 mile hikes on uneven terrain. Participants are responsible for their own transportation and/or coordinating ride shares to field locations. Come join us during a beautiful time of year in the Driftless and become a Master Naturalist!
Course Dates:
Mon, Oct 12 - Friday, Oct 16, 8:30 am - 4:30 pm
Sat, Oct 17th -  8:30 am - 1:00 pm

 - Monday, February 2                   6:30pm
 - Luster Heights Unit, Yellow River State Forest, 481 Luster Heights Rd, Harper's Ferry IA
The hike will be approximately 2 miles with views of the Mississippi River. Participants should meet at the Luster Heights Unit parking lot at 481 Luster Heights Road, Harpers Ferry. The Moonlight Snowshoe will be a guided trail hike taking place after dark to enable the participants to see the stars and moon like they have never seen before. The event requires preregistration for those wishing to use snowshoes provided by the ACCB and is open to all ages. However, anyone under 16 years of age must be accompanied by an adult. In the case of inclement weather or poor snow conditions the Moonlight Snowshoe may be postponed or cancelled and will be announced via the ACCB’s Facebook page.
Appropriate sized snowshoes and trekking poles will be provided to individuals who do not have their own equipment with preregistration. If snowshoes are not needed, participants are welcome to attend without registering. Participants should dress for the weather with appropriate layers including outerwear, winter hats, gloves, and waterproof boots. A headlamp or small flashlight is also recommended, but not required. A full schedule of upcoming events hosted by the Allamakee County Conservation Board is available by following the ACCB on Facebook. To register or to receive more information on this event or any event you can call the ACCB at (563)538-0403. Sponsor: Allamakee County Conservation Board (ACCB)

 - Wednesday, February 4             6:30am - 7:30am
 - Lower Palisades Parking Lot, 2566Ice Cave Rd, Decorah, IA
Who says the best part of winter is staying under the covers? Decorah Public Library and Decorah Parks and Recreation Department are inviting early risers and aspiring morning people alike to discover the quiet magic of winter with Winter Wonder Walks, a program that celebrates the season's cozy darkness and spectacular sunrises. Folks can join free walks on the first and third Wednesdays of each month from 6:30 to 7:30 AM. Each walk will explore a different scenic route through town, parks, and trails, allowing walkers to experience the peaceful beauty of winter mornings while watching the world wake up. After, walkers can head to a coffee shop for warm up drinks. On February 4, we’ll walk from the Palisades parking lot to Dunning’s Springs and back on Ice Cave Road and then head to Lefse Lodge when they open at 7:30. "We wanted to create something that gets people moving during a season when it's tempting to hibernate," said Zach Row-Heyveld, DPL Assistant Director. "Winter Wonder Walks is about embracing the season instead of just surviving it." Sponsor: Decorah Public Library


 - Saturday, February 7       8:45 am - noon
 - Genoa National Fish Hatchery, S5631 Hwy 35, Genoa, WI
Join the Genoa National Fish Hatchery staff, the Midwest Fisheries Center, and Friends of the Upper Mississippi for our Kids Ice Fishing Day! This event is for children ages 5-12, accompanied by a parent or guardian. Participants can try their hand at snowshoeing! Volunteers will be onsite to talk to folks about winter recreational opportunities and will have snowshoes for folks to try out.
This event is weather and ice condition dependent
Event schedule:
8:30 a.m. to 9:00 a.m. Registration
9:00 a.m. to 9:15 a.m. Ice Safety and Ice Fishing Tips
9:15 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Open Fishing for Kids
9:00am to 12:00 p.m. Snowshoes available
Fishing poles, bait, and tackle will be provided by the Genoa NFH, Midwest Fisheries Center, and Friends of the Upper Mississippi. A warming tent will be onsite, and a light lunch will be provided for participants, courtesy of Friends of the Upper Mississippi. Due to limited space and biosecurity concerns, no outside ice fishing tents or bait will be permitted. In order to provide ample time for kids to get equipment and catch their fish, children must be registered no later than 11:00 a.m. Where to go: This event will be held at the Genoa National Fish Hatchery, S5631 State Highway 35, Genoa, WI, on the east side of the highway at Pond 11. Traveling 3 miles south of Genoa, WI, drive past the office sign on the right and take a left by the rearing buildings on the east side of Highway 35. Follow the signs and please park in the designated areas. Questions? Call 608 689-2605. Sponsors: Genoa National Fish Hatchery staff, the Midwest Fisheries Center, and Friends of the Upper Mississippi

 - Saturday, February 7                  9:30-11:30 am
 -  Holzinger Trails, 925 West Lake Blvd, Winona, MN
Join us for a snowy winter hike and hunt for animal tracks & signs of animal activity! We will explore the rolling Holzinger Trails and search for evidence with a scavenger hunt while enjoying the winter weather. This free family friendly programming is a great way to get outdoors during this chilly month. Grab your boots and see you on the trail! 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.  Please register here. Sponsor: Winona Outdoor Collaborative

 - Saturday, February 7           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

 - Saturday, February 7             1:00-7:00 pm
 - Hixon Forest Park, 792 Cty Rd FA (by the weatherball), La Crosse WI
Join for a free and cozy community winter event in the bluffs! This event is designed to celebrate winter recreation, community connection, and getting outside during the colder months. No registration required. Please note, there will be no alcohol. Come and go as you please. There will be optional fundraising activities hosted by partners. What to expect:
• Casual hiking, biking, and running on the trails
• Family scavenger hunt with geocache-style exploration bins
• Kids pump track area
• Hot cocoa, s’mores, and fireside chats
• Games and snowman making (weather permitting)
• Door prizes
• A cozy candlelight hike at sunset 
1:00-5:00 PM - Community and family activities hosted by ORA Trails and 50/50 raffle hosted by Beer by Bike Brigade
2:00-5:00PM  - Cup of Love chili-style tasting and voting hosted by BLACK 
5:00-5:30 PM - Door prizes and Cup of Love awards
5:30-7:00 PM - Candlelight hike on the Prairie Loop hosted by ORA Trails. This event is family-friendly, inclusive, and welcoming to all ages and experience levels. Bundle up, grab your favorite winter layers, and come enjoy an afternoon and evening outside with your community. We can’t wait to see you there! Sponsors: ORA Trails, BLACK, Beer by Bike Brigade, and La Crosse Adventure Films

 - Saturday, February 7           5:00 -7:00pm
 - Upper Hixon Trails, 709 County Rd FA, La Crosse WI
A crowd favorite! ORA will again host a series of candlelit walks! These are free, all-ages events that begin at 5pm, and last until 7pm, or until we run out of fire wood! This hike utilizes a path that is considered "easy to moderate" to navigate. Candles will light the route, but if you'd like to see clearly where you're stepping, consider wearing a headlamp or bringing a flashlight. These walks are self-guided. Snacks and beverages will be on site, including fire pits with s'mores! Additional date: March 3 - Gateway Trailhead. Sponsor: ORA (Outdoor Recreation Alliance)

The Arctic is Burning - Why It Matters.  Canceled
 - Wednesday February 11         10:00am -noon
- Whitewater State Park Visitor's Center
Join us for our monthly A.L.P.'s at Whitewater program (Advanced Learning Program) hosted by the Friends of Whitewater State Park! This month we welcome Whitewater State Park manager Jimmy Fox. Jimmy will be talking about an innovative project he was involved in as manager of Yukon Flats National Wildlife Refuge. Increasing wildfires in the Far North, and their impact on permafrost, is one of several climate tipping points. The project he worked on attempted to avoid and minimize this trend to protect Pleistocene-era permafrost known as Yedoma. Sponsors: Friends of Whitewater State Park

Beginners Snowshoeing
 - Saturday, February 14            10:-11:00 am
 - Whitewater State Park  Visitor Center, 19041 Hwy 74, Altura, MN 
Looking for a way to stay active in the winter? Come join us and learn about the outstanding outdoor activity of snowshoeing. We'll walk you through the basics and then hit the trail for a short trip through the woods. During the program participants are welcome to bring their own snowshoes or borrow a pair of the parks. If we don't have enough snow, we will hike instead. In the event of poor weather, check the on-line calendar for program cancellations. For more information, email jeremy.darst@state.mn.us or call 507-312-2301. Sponsor: Whitewater State Park

La Crescent Lions Frozen Apple Candlelit Hike  canceled due to poor trail conditions
- Saturday, February 14           5:30-8:30pm
- Veteran’s Park, 595 Veteran’s Parkway, La Crescent
Eagle Bluff Access Trail will be lit with over 450 candle luminaries. Start at Veterans Park (595 Veterans Parkway) for this out and back walk along our cozy wooded trail. Fire pits at each end of the trail will help keep you warm, along with hot chocolate and hot cider at Veterans Park. See the MAP in comments and under the discussion tab for details. Distance out and back is less than a mile. Well-behaved leashed dogs are allowed. Winter conditions are unpredictable, so please dress appropriately - ice cleats are encouraged. Note: There are no restrooms in Veterans Park. This is a Free Event, but donations are appreciated for future events. Pray for snow and invite your friends! Sponsor: La Crescent MN Lions Club

Wisconsin Neighborhood Weekends for La Crosse, Vernon and Trempealeau county residents
 - February 14-15
 - International Owl Center, 126 E Cedar St, Houston, MN
Residents of local WI counties, including college students, are specially invited to visit the International Owl Center for FREE on Neighbor Weekends. Come see live owls in person, check out our hands-on displays, and stay for our live programs at 11 and 2 each day. Please bring a driver license, student ID or other form of identification to verify your place of residence. Visitors from elsewhere are also welcome, but will be required to pay the regular admission fee of $9 for adults, $8 for seniors/veterans/military and $6 for children aged 4-17.There will be an additional program at 12:30pm on these days.  Sponsor: International Owl Center

 - Sunday February 15                  11:00am - 2:00 pm
 - 389 Lansing Harpers Road, Lansing Iowa
Registration for youth aged 15 and under will begin at 11a.m.
and fishing will go until 2 p.m. Due to low water conditions at Nobles Island Access, the 2026 Harpers Ferry Youth Ice
Fisheree will take place at Village Creek Boat Access, 389 Lansing Harpers Road, Lansing Iowa. Youth participating in the free clinic may use their own equipment, but ice fishing equipment will be available to youth who do not have their own. Food and drink will be available for those participating in the clinic. Prizes will be awarded to participants in each of 3 age groups. In case of inclement weather, all cancellations and delays will be posted on the Allamakee County Conservation Board Facebook page the day of the event. For more information on this program or any program offered by the Allamakee County Conservation Board, contact the office at (563)538-0402 or follow us on Facebook.
Sponsors: Harpers Ferry Booster Club/Allamakee County Conservation Board


 - Wednesday, February 18            6:30am - 7:30am
 - Lower Palisades Parking Lot, 2566Ice Cave Rd, Decorah, IA
Who says the best part of winter is staying under the covers? Decorah Public Library and Decorah Parks and Recreation Department are inviting early risers and aspiring morning people alike to discover the quiet magic of winter with Winter Wonder Walks, a program that celebrates the season's cozy darkness and spectacular sunrises. Folks can join free walks on the first and third Wednesdays of each month from 6:30 to 7:30 AM. Each walk will explore a different scenic route through town, parks, and trails, allowing walkers to experience the peaceful beauty of winter mornings while watching the world wake up. After, walkers can head to a coffee shop for warm up drinks. On February 18, we’ll start at the library and head to Pulpit Rock Campground on Dug Road and end up at Coffee Break. "We wanted to create something that gets people moving during a season when it's tempting to hibernate," said Zach Row-Heyveld, DPL Assistant Director. "Winter Wonder Walks is about embracing the season instead of just surviving it." Sponsor: Decorah Public Library

 - Friday February 20           5:30-7:30 pm
 - Norskeledalen  Nature and Heritage Center, N455 O. Ophus Rd, Coon Valley WI
 - $10/person ages 12 and older; $5/person ages 4-11; free with current membership card.
Come experience one of Norskedalen’s trails in a whole new way! Formerly known as the Candlelight Snowshoe Hike, we want you to know that walking in boots or skiing are also great choices for this winter evening event. Regardless of what’s on your feet, you’re sure to be astonished by the captivating views and magical atmosphere as you hike a trail lit by luminaries. Afterwards, enjoy some hot cocoa by the fireplace in the shelter or get cozy by the bonfire! The Candlelight Hike typically takes place on a Friday evening in February or March, depending on weather conditions. Please check the rotating home page of this site for details each February. Sponsor: Norskedalen Nature and Heritage Center

 - Saturday, February 21       10:00am-noon
 - McIntosh Memorial Library, 205 S. Rock Ave, Viroqua WI
Mississippi Valley Conservancy invites community members to a special presentation, Winter Feeder Birds of the Driftless Area, led by naturalist and wildlife photographer Dan Jackson. As part of the Conservancy’s Linked to the Land educational outreach program, this presentation offers a fun and accessible way for nature lovers to deepen their connection to the outdoors—right from their own backyards. Winter is an active season for feeder birds in the Driftless, and learning to identify and understand these species inspires stewardship and appreciation for the habitats that support them year-round. Dan Jackson’s talk will feature photos of common—and a few uncommon—winter birds that visit feeders in our region, along with engaging insights into their behavior, biology, and ecology. Whether you’re new to backyard birding or a seasoned observer, this presentation will offer tips, visuals, and stories perfect for winter nature watching. Dan Jackson is a Wisconsin Master Naturalist, long-time birder, and dedicated conservation volunteer with experience in wildlife photography and citizen science. He has led hundreds of field trips in search of birds and Odonata, and regularly does presentations on dragonflies, butterflies, birds, bumble bees, and nature photography. As a wildlife photographer, Dan has spent countless hours in the field and has taken pictures of hundreds of species of birds, dragonflies, damselflies, butterflies, bumble bees, river mussels, and many other species of insects, plants, and animals.  The event is free and open to the public, with donations welcomed to support the Conservancy’s work protecting more than 27,000 acres across the Driftless Area. Please register here. Sponsored by Mississippi Valley Conservancy, WXOW News 19.


 - Saturday, February 21          3-5:30pm
 - Duck Egg County Forest, Lower Parking Lot, Viroqua WI
*Please note LOWER Duck Egg for meeting spot.
The Friends of Vernon County Parks and Forests will be hosting guided Winter Walks exploring two Vernon County parks! These winter walks are to bring awareness to our county parks in the winter season as well as allow the greater community to come together! The winter walks and bonfire are for friends and families of all ages and at Lower Duck Egg Feb 21 - A few reminders about Duck Egg. There are NO public restrooms at Lower Duck Egg, you can do your best to go before you come, use the restroom at UPPER Duck Egg or pee in the woods. If you have never been to Lower Duck Egg, drive right on past the sign that says "Duck Egg County Park" and continue down the hill. Once you get to the bottom of the hill the lower parking lot will be on the left side. Walkers are to meet in the park parking lot. All walks will begin promptly at 3pm and will be approximately 1 hour long, with a bonfire and beverages to immediately follow. The Friends of Vernon County Parks encourages walkers to always dress appropriately for the walk and the weather and invite your family and friends!Sponsor: Friends of Vernon County Parks

 - Saturday, February 21         Noon -2:00pm
 - Kickapoo Valley Reserve, S3661 WI 131, La Farge WI
$10 per person with KVR annual pass/$15 per person w/o pass
We will caravan to a trailhead and hike with a guide up to 2 miles (depending on ice conditions) to view ice formations that form over rock shelters and on rocks, on the Kickapoo Valley Reserve. Ice hikes can traverse steep, slippery and varied terrain, both on and off trail. This hike should be considered strenuous and require some hiking experience and proper gear, especially the proper footwear. Suggested Gear: Hiking boots or waterproof winter shoes (depending on temperature, winter hiking boots are suggested); Wool or wool blend socks; Foot Chains/foot traction (like Yak Traks highly recommended); Hiking poles (optional but suggested); Outdoor clothing for active pursuits - (wicking layers); Gloves and hats - balaclavas work well if it is cold - loose scarves are discouraged because they can get hung up on trees and branches.; Personal pack with water bottle; Phone or packable camera. Contact us at 608-625-2960 or kickapoo.reserve@krm.state.wi.us. Register here. Sponsor: Kickapoo Valley Reserve

 - Thursday, February 26                10-11:00 am
 - Effigy Mounds National Monument, 151 Hwy 76, Harper's Ferry IA
Join a park ranger for a mindfulness walk on the Yellow River Boardwalk. This is one in a winter series offering weekly programing for our new Golden Eagles Club at the park. These programs are intended for mature adults but open to anyone. Programs may be a variety of activities and topics and will run weekly until April. For a full schedule of the weekly presentations (book  discussions, hands-on work and presentations), please visit their events website .Sponsor: Effigy Mounds National Monument

 - Saturday, February 28         11:00am -3:00pm
 - Kickapoo Valley Reserve, S3661 WI 131, La Farge WI
 - $20/per person with KVR Annual Pass/$25 per person without an annual pass
We will caravan to trailheads and hike with a guide up to 8 miles (depending on ice conditions) to view a variety of ice formations that form over rock shelters and on rocks, on the Kickapoo Valley Reserve. There will be opportunities to opt out of the Trek a couple of times during the day. Ice hikes can traverse steep, slippery and varied terrain, both on and off trail. Hikes should be considered strenuous and require previous hiking experience and proper gear.
Suggested Gear: Hiking boots or shoes (depending on temperature, winter hiking boots are suggested); Wool or wool blend socks; Foot Chains (like Yak Traks); Hiking poles (optional but suggested)
Outdoor clothing for active pursuits - (wicking layers); Gloves and hats - balaclavas work well if it is cold, loose scarves are discouraged because they can get hung up on trees and branches; Personal pack with water bottle and snack; Phone or packable camera; Change of socks.
Each person should register separately. Contact us at 608-625-2960 or kickapoo.reserve@krm.state.wi.us.  Register here Sponsor: Kickapoo Valley Reserve

 - Saturday, February 28                6-8:00 p.m.
 - Frontenac State Park, 29223 County 28 Blvd, Frontenac, MN

Come enjoy an evening in the park by candlelight! Snowshoe, ski, or hike the trail along the bluff top with beautiful views of the Mississippi River Valley, lit by dozens of luminaries and the light of the full moon. Warm up at campfires at either end of the trail or enjoy some light refreshments by the wood stove in the warming shelter. Refreshments provided by the Frontenac State Park Association volunteer group. Vehicles entering the park are required to have a State Park vehicle permit. Permits are $7 per day or $35 for an annual sticker. Skiers 16 and older will need a MN Ski Pass to participate. Ski passes are $10 for a day pass, $25 for the year, or $70 for three years. A limited number of snowshoes will also be available for rent for $6 per pair. Severe weather or other factors may cause this event to be changed or canceled. For updates, or if you have questions, call Frontenac State Park at 651-299-3000. Sponsor: Frontenac State Park Association and Frontenac State Park

Winter Blufflands Hike - Lower Hixon Forest rescheduled to Sunday March 1, 1:30PM.
 - Sunday, March 1         1:30 pm
 - Lower Hixon parking lot

Hixon Forest - Regarded by many, the outdoor gem of La Crosse, known for its extensive trail network.
Split into two regions, Upper and Lower, Hixon Forest offers activities for hikers, mountain bikers, runners, birdwatchers, etc. We will enjoy hiking LOWER HIXON in this event. We will have an easy 3 mile option and for those who want a little more a 5.5 mile option. What they include: 3 Mile Option: The lower Bicentennial/Hickory Trails Loop. Includes exploring the Flury Farmstead ruins. 5.5 Mile Option: We will begin on the same route as the 3 Mile, but will climb the bluffs via Savanna Trail to connect with Vista before descending back to our cars. Also includes Flury Farm, Lookout Prairie Overlook and Vista Prairie Overlook. DIFFICULTY: 3 Mile Option: Easy. 5.5 Mile Option: Moderate. Both start at the Lower Hixon Forest Trailhead Parking Lot  (https://maps.app.goo.gl/sm3ixXjTLxnR6ook8) Sponsor: Blufflands Hiking Group



Do you know of other February 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.
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