Be sure to check often during the month with local hiking groups, universities, naturalist-interest groups, nature conservancies, nature centers and their Friends groups, state parks, US Fish and Wildlife centers and others in your area to see what's new to help you understand the natural world around you better.
- Friday, July 5 8:30-9:30pm
- Whitewater (MN) State Park
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. For more information, Contact Jeremy Darst at 507-312-2301 or by email at Jeremy.Darst@state.mn.us. Sponsor: Whitewater State Park
- Friday, July 5 3-3:30 pm
- Whitewater (MN) State Park
Worried about getting lost in the woods? Feeling a little directionally challenged? This is the program for you! During this short program we will show you how to utilize the free Avenza Maps app to navigate any state park like a pro. We will walk you through installing the app on your phone and how to use it step by step. We'll also look at some of the apps more advanced abilities. Sponsor: Whitewater State Park - Saturdays July 6, 13, 20, 27 10-11:00am (ish)
- Frontenac (MN) State Park
Take a short, guided hike with volunteer naturalist, Bruce Ause! Bruce will lead visitors along trails through the upland area of the park pointing out a variety of natural features as they are encountered. Dress for the weather and bring sun and tick protection. Binoculars and cameras are nice accessories, but not necessary. The hike will last about an hour. This event is free. Vehicles entering the park are required to have a State Park vehicle permit. Permits are $7 per day or $35 for an annual sticker. Meet at the Campground Kiosk at 10 a.m. Sponsor: Frontenac State Park
-Saturday, July 6 10:00am-1:00pm
- Sugarloaf Bluff
Don't miss out on this chance to try something new at our upcoming community rock-climbing days! We've heard from some folks that they feel like they're not "outdoorsy" enough for climbing, but we want to assure you that we have options for everyone, from total beginners to those looking for a bit more of a challenge. And don't worry if you've never climbed before! We'll provide all the gear you need, and our awesome guides (who are SPI-certified, by the way) will be right there with you every step of the way. You don't need to bring a partner either - we'll belay you ourselves so you can focus on having fun and enjoying the climb. If you’ve never been to the bluff, don’t fret—we’ll have guided hikes to the top twice throughout the morning, at 10 and 11:30. If you're new to hiking or feeling nervous, this is a wonderful chance to meet some friendly faces and enjoy a leisurely hike to the top. Our volunteer guide will provide some interesting tidbits about the environment and answer any questions you might have. Check this link for more details to this free program. Sponsor:Winona Outdoor Collaborative - Saturday July 6 8:30-10:30 pm
- Frontenac (MN) State Park
Join the Rochester Astronomy Club in the picnic shelter at 8:30pm for a presentation about public sky observation. The viewing event will take place at 9:45pm in the picnic area of the park. Club members will set up their telescopes in "stations" which will allow visitors to observe and learn about different celestial phenomena. Visitors can come and go as they please. More information can be found here. Important note: This event may be cancelled last minute in the event of bad weather or severely limited visibility. Check the above website or call the park (651-299-3000) for the latest updates. This event is free, but vehicles need to display a valid MN State Park permit upon entering the park ($7 for a one-day permit, $35 for a year-round permit). Permits may be purchased at the park office before or during the event, or online anytime. Meet at the Picnic Shelter. Park in the overflow parking area. Sponsors: Frontenac State Park & State Park Association and Rochester Astronomy Club
Preschool Nature Explorers
- Tuesday July 9 10-11:00 am
- Frontenac (MN) State Park
Join us for this free monthly program series for preschool children to learn about nature in the Lake Pepin area. We'll read stories, make nature crafts and explore outdoors. Children must be accompanied by an adult. As part of the program, state park vehicle permits will be provided when you arrive at the picnic shelter. Additional dates: Aug 13; Sept 10; Oct 8. Sponsors: MN DNR, Project Get Outdoors; Frontenac State Park Association, Lake City and Red Wing Public Libraries
Guided Forest Bathing Walk
- Monday, July 8 5:30-7:30pm
Nature Place, Myrick Park, La Crosse
The Nature Place partners with Char Peterson and Kati Thompson, certified Forest Therapy Guides, for a guided Forest Bathing walk. This event is an immersive experience that is designed to relax and recharge both the body and mind. Our walk will be less than a mile on relatively level ground and is appropriate for ages 16+. Modifications can be accommodated for all physical abilities.To learn more about Forest Bathing visit: www.anft.earth. $15 per participant - cash or check in advance or at time of event. Contact: Steph@natureplacelacrosse.org to register or ask any questions about the event. 25% of the proceeds go towards youth programming at The Nature Place. Sponsor: The Nature Place
- Friday, July 12 9am-11am
- Whitewater (MN) State Park
Come join us for an early morning hike off the beaten path. During this hike we will be leaving the trail system behind and visiting a place that most people have never seen. We will be traveling over uneven terrain and through underbrush, so hiking boots and pants are recommended. Meet at the Visitor's Center Bring Transportation, Registration is required - contact Jeremy Darst at 507-312-2301 or by email at Jeremy.Darst@state.mn.us. Distance: 2.5 Miles, Elevation Gain: 250ft Sponsor: Whitewater State Park
- Saturday July 13 9-11am
- Frontenac State Park
Meet at the Frontenac State Park campground shower building at 9:00 AM. and walk through a mixed habitat of prairie and woodland looking for resident birds that specialize in these areas. The trail is mowed grass and is well maintained. Bring your binoculars or borrow some from the park office. No need to register. If you have any questions, email janetmalotky@gmail.com. This event is free. Vehicles entering the park are required to have a State Park vehicle permit. Permits are $7 per day or $35 for an annual sticker. Sponsors: Frontenac State Park and the Frontenac State Park Association.
Wilderness Weekends with Emily - Saturday, July 13 9:30-11:30 am
- Location TBD
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. Sponsor: Winona Outdoor Collaborative
- Saturday, July 13 7-8:00pm
Wildcat Mountain State Park
Join Abbey Krumrie from River Valley Raptors for an 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. WI Vehicle admission is required. Sponsor: Friends of Wildcat Mountain State Park
- Saturday, July 20 6:00-7:30am
- Whitewater (MN) State Park
Join us on an early morning hike up the bluffs. We will travel to a rarely visited spot in the park and soak in the morning sunshine while enjoying an amazing view. Along the way we will enjoy the sights and sound of nature, as the animals wake from their nighttime slumber. Meet at the Visitor's Center. Long Pants and Hiking Boots are recommended. Registration is required - contact Jeremy Darst at 507-312-2301 or by email at Jeremy.Darst@state.mn.us. Distance: 2 Miles, Elevation Gain: 300ft. Sponsor: Whitewater State Park
- Friday, July 26 9-10:30 am
- Whitewater (MN) State Park
The trails in the park all have unique historical and ecological tales to tell. During this hike we will learn about some of the unique stories this section of the park's trail system can tell. Come join us for some great views and enhance you appreciation for this wonderful trail. Distance: 1 mile. 200ft elevation gain and stairs. Contact Jeremy Darst at 5073122301 or by email at Jeremy.Darst@state.mn.us for more information. Sponsor: Whitewater State Park
What Are Mussels?
The trails in the park all have unique historical and ecological tales to tell. During this hike we will learn about some of the unique stories this section of the park's trail system can tell. Come join us for some great views and enhance you appreciation for this wonderful trail. Distance: 1 mile. 200ft elevation gain and stairs. Contact Jeremy Darst at 5073122301 or by email at Jeremy.Darst@state.mn.us for more information. Sponsor: Whitewater State Park
- Saturday, July 20 7-8:00 pm
- Wildcat Mountain (WI) State Park
Join Scott Lee as he presents about various critters that people aren’t real comfortable with. The ones we don’t want to hug. The program will include a live ball python as well as a wolf, skunk and several other pelts, an owl mount, skulls and other “hands-on optional” animal props. Please meet at the Amphitheater. WI Vehicle admission is required. Sponsor: Wildcat State Park - Saturday July 27, 9-11:00 am
- Frontencac (MN) State Park
Walk through the riparian forest and along the beach to Sand Point. Look and listen for resident forest birds such as warblers, orioles, thrushes, wrens, and sparrows, as well as gulls and raptors. Bring binoculars. The trail is well maintained and flat. The full loop is approximately 2 miles long, but you can head back whenever you need to. No need to register. If you have any questions, email janetmalotky@gmail.com. This event is free. Sponsors: Frontenac State Park and the Frontenac State Park Association.
- Saturday, July 27 1-2:00 pm
- Frontenac (MN) State Park
Learn about unique and interesting freshwater mussels and why they are an important part of healthy streams and lakes in Minnesota. Also learn about what the Minnesota DNR is doing to help restore freshwater mussel populations across the state. Meet at the picnic shelter. This program is free. Vehicles need to display a valid MN State Park Permit upon entering park. Please stop by the office or purchase beforehand. $7 one-day permit, $35 year-round permit. Sponsors: Frontenac State Park, Lake City Mussel Lab and the Frontenac State Park Association.
Learn about unique and interesting freshwater mussels and why they are an important part of healthy streams and lakes in Minnesota. Also learn about what the Minnesota DNR is doing to help restore freshwater mussel populations across the state. Meet at the picnic shelter. This program is free. Vehicles need to display a valid MN State Park Permit upon entering park. Please stop by the office or purchase beforehand. $7 one-day permit, $35 year-round permit. Sponsors: Frontenac State Park, Lake City Mussel Lab and the Frontenac State Park Association.
- Saturday July 27 5:30 workshop; 7-9:00 pm performance
Perrot (WI) State Park
Kings, queens, fairies, lovers and sprites all collide in an enchanted forest one midsummer night, proving that “the course of true love never did run smooth.” One of Shakespeare's most popular comedies takes us on a beguiling odyssey full of mistaken identities, misguided passions, love potions and magic spells. The Summit Players Theater is a traveling theatre company that presents free, accessible Shakespeare workshops and performances to audiences at Wisconsin state parks. The workshop is at 5:30 p.m., recommended for ages 8 and up. The show is at 7 p.m. Location: Nature Center. Bring a blanket or chairs! Contact: Justin.Wershofen@wisconsin.gov Sponsor: Perrot State Park
Perrot (WI) State Park
Kings, queens, fairies, lovers and sprites all collide in an enchanted forest one midsummer night, proving that “the course of true love never did run smooth.” One of Shakespeare's most popular comedies takes us on a beguiling odyssey full of mistaken identities, misguided passions, love potions and magic spells. The Summit Players Theater is a traveling theatre company that presents free, accessible Shakespeare workshops and performances to audiences at Wisconsin state parks. The workshop is at 5:30 p.m., recommended for ages 8 and up. The show is at 7 p.m. Location: Nature Center. Bring a blanket or chairs! Contact: Justin.Wershofen@wisconsin.gov Sponsor: Perrot State Park
- Wednesday, July 31 4-8:00pm
- Kellogg Weaver Dunes SNA, Kellogg MN
Join us in collecting native prairie seed at Kellogg Weaver Dunes SNA, an ancient sand prairie near the confluence of the Mississippi, Zumbro, and Chippewa Rivers. Volunteers will help search for and collect native plant seeds. Tools, instructions, and good camaraderie will be provided. Bring water, lunch, and dress for working in the weather. If you have your own gloves you'd like to use, please bring those as well. Footwear appropriate for outdoor work/hiking is recommended. Events will be led by naturalist Sara Holger, Footwear appropriate for outdoor work/hiking is recommended. There are no maintained trails, public restrooms nor access to drinking water on these sites. From Kellogg 5.5 miles E and S on Co Rd 84. E on Twp Rd 141 about 0.2 mile, stay left at fork and continue about 0.375 mile to parking at end of field road. For more information, contact Sara Holger, SNA Contract Naturalist at 507-951-5885 or by email at driftlessnaturalistllc@gmail.com.
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