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.
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| 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
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!
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
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
- 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
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
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| 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 ParkOnline 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 ParkFerryville'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 ParkDo 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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