Thursday, June 25, 2026

Let's Get Hiking and Learning - July 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.



Late June Events

 - Friday, June 26,             3:00-4:00pm
- Winona Public Library, 151 W. 5th St, Winona MN
Join Will Sings Songs at Winona Public Library on a musical adventure through the Minnesotan outdoors! An experienced naturalist, Will performs original nature-themed songs, along with some songs that are just plain fun! Driven by audience participation, Will is guaranteed to get kids moving, grooving, laughing, and singing. This high energy performance focuses on positivity, joy, and learning through curiosity. This program is made possible by the people of Minnesota through Minnesota’s Arts and Cultural Heritage Library Legacy fund, in cooperation with our regional library system, SELCO. Sponsor: Winona Public Library

- Saturday, June 27         10 am -11:30 am
 - Forestville Mystery Cave Park, William Morris’s Visitor Center
Caves, disappearing streams and sinkholes make up a landscape called karst. Cherry Grove Blind Valley Scientific and Natural Area is a hidden gem in the story of karst topography. Master Naturalist volunteer, Ann will reveal these unique geologic features up close on this 1 mile hike. Come prepared to cross over a shallow stream on stepping stones by wearing sturdy shoes. Bug spray is recommended too. Meet at the William Morrissey Visitor Center at Mystery Cave for a brief introduction and follow Ann in your own car about 6 miles to the Cherry Grove SNA. From State Hwy. 16, go 4 miles south on Co. Hwy. 5, then follow the signs to Mystery Cave. More Information: Call 507-352-5111.  Sponsor: MN DNR

 - Saturday, June 27                    2:00 - 4:00 pm
 - Vet's Memorial Park, West Salem
Join us at Vet's Park Campground for an immersive reptile education experience filled with fascinating facts, up-close encounters, and plenty of opportunities for hands-on exploration. Whether you’re curious, cautious, or completely snake-obsessed, this family-friendly program is designed to inspire wonder and connection with some of nature’s most misunderstood animals. A heartfelt thank you to La Crosse County Parks for sponsoring this special event and helping us bring wildlife education to our community. Sponsor: Bluff Country Snakes

Nocturnal Animal Hike
 - Saturday, June 27                   4:00 - 5:00 PM
 - Wyalusing (WI) State Park, 13081 State Park Ln, Bagley, WI
This will be a hiking program so make sure to bring good walking shoes, and water with you. During the program, we will be discussing different nocturnal groups such as birds, bats, mammals, where they live and more. This event will be held rain or shine. Location: Paul Lawrence Interpretative Center. If bad weather occurs the program will be moved to Peterson Interpretative Center located behind the concession stand. Event Contact: Allyssa Nash, allyssa.nash@wisconsin.gov, 608-996-2261 Sponsor: Wyalusing State Park

- Sunday, June 28             1:30-2:30pm
 - Iowisota Retreat and Ducation Center, 2472 IA-26, Lansing, Iowa        
Historian Christine Wellman Hall will share insights on the human history of the Upper Mississippi River Valley, from first nations to present time. Light refreshments (tea/coffee and cookies). Optional short hike after session. Cost is by donation. Register here. We will have a free-will donation jar available. We are limiting participation to 30 due to size of room, so reservations are necessary. The program will be provided by Christine Wellman Hall. Christine is very familiar with this landscape; her family lived on the Iowisota property during her formative middle school years (her dad was the Kee High principal), and she did her college senior thesis about Fish Farm Mounds. Christine’s work experiences include the Delta Queen riverboat, Effigy Mounds National Monument, and Norskedalen Nature and Heritage Center. These prepared her well for her current job as a featured History speaker on Mississippi River Cruises by American Cruise Lines! We are excited to welcome Chris back to her childhood “home turf” to share her insights with us.
 - Sunday, June 28              1:30-4:00pm
 - Decorah Community Prairie, 4 Ohio St, Decorah IA
Join us for our free annual Seasons of the Prairie celebration of the plants, insects and natural wonder of prairies. All ages are welcome. No registration is required at this free event.
  • 1:30pm  - “Why the Prairie is Green: How Prairie Plants Defend Themselves from the Animals That Eat Them”, with Eric Baack, Luther College Biology Professor
  • 2:15pm -  “Nature Connections and Wellness Benefits”: a walk with Enya Wallace, Luther College Biology & English major
  • 3:00 pm - Flower Shadow Watercolor, Sara Kuboushek, Art Haus

Sponsor: Decorah Parks and Recreation Department

July Events

Eagle Bluff Fungi Hunt
 - through October 31, 2026       Dawn to dusk daily
Eagle Bluff Environmental Learning Center, 28097 Goodview Drive, Lanesboro, MN
Eagle Bluff Environmental Learning Center in Lanesboro has launched a free outdoor art experience called the Eagle Bluff Fungi Hunt, which runs through October 31, 2026. Rochester-based fiber and installation artist Lydia Hansen has hand-crocheted dozens of mushrooms inspired by native Minnesota fungi species and hidden them along a 0.75-mile trail loop. Each one is paired with interpretive signage about the role of fungi in Minnesota’s ecosystems. Free and open to the public. Park in the large lot on your left as you arrive. Look for the Fungi Hunt sign and trail entrance on the north side of the lot. Trail maps are available at the Schroeder Visitor Center. [as seen in Rochester Local Facebook page]

 - Wednesday, July 1             10:00am
 - Houston Public Library. 202 Cedar St, Houston MN
Marvel at the amazing creatures of the reptile and amphibian world during this fun, safe and educational program. The program includes turtles, lizards, snakes, and a small alligator. We'll also have some reptile-themed crafts available! Sponsor: Houston Public Library

 - Thursday, July 2                          10:00-11:00am
 - Holzinger Lodge, 925 W Lake Blvd, Winona MN
This program series from Winona Public Library for ages 3-6 and a caregiver is focused on using natural spaces to practice building blocks of early literacy: talk, write, read, and play! We’ll be outdoors for the whole program, so dress for the weather. Sturdy shoes are important, as we’ll spend part of the time on Holzinger Trail. Adults are required to be with children at all times. No pre-registration required. Sponsor: Winona Public Library

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

 - Friday, July 3                  1:00pm (repeats weekly on Fridays-Sundays until October 31)
 - Effigy Mounds National Monument, 151 IA-76, Harpers Ferry, IA
Join us for a free ranger-guided hike along the Yellow River Boardwalk trail. This hike is a 1-mile roundtrip that will take about 1 hour total. This is a wheelchair accessible trail along a recycled-plastic boardwalk to the Yellow River bridge. There will be frequent stops on this hike as the ranger will be providing information about the resources of the park. Please wear weather appropriate clothing and footwear. Bringing bug spray is recommended. Sponsor: Effigy Mounds National Monument

- Friday, July 3                 2:30pm (repeats weekly on Fridays-Sundays until October 31)
 - Effigy Mounds National Monument, 151 IA-76, Harpers Ferry, IA
Free “Pop-Up” programs are ranger-led activities or talks. These programs can be focused on a variety of topics and are ranger’s choice. Sponsor: Effigy Mounds National Monument

Poisonous Plants
- Friday, July 3             4:00-5:30pm
- Whitewater State Park Visitor's Center, 19041 Hwy 74, Altura, MN
Learn about the poisonous, invasive, and otherwise icky plants found along the trail. We'll check out ways to stay safe while exploring the park, and how these plants impact animal and plant habitats at Whitewater. More Information: Contact Jonathan Ismail at 507-312-2301 or by email at jonathan.ismail@state.mn.us Sponsor: Whitewater State Park

Take a Hike with a Naturalist - Eagle Point
- Saturday, July 4                        Noon- 1:00pm
- Whitewater State Park Visitor's Center, 19041 Hwy 74, Altura, MN
Come explore one of the park’s lesser-known overlooks. During our journey we will enjoy some great views and learn about the ecological and historical features that make this trail unique. Distance 1 mile. 200ft elevation gain and stairs. More Information: Call 507-312-2300.  Sponsor: Whitewater State Park

 - Monday, July 6                11:00am
 - meet outside Holmen Public Library, 121 W. Legion St, Homen WI
Enjoy a nature walk, stroies and activities designed to foster eco-literacy and fun for youth and their grown-ups. Explore a local trail as summer marches along at this free, approximately 45 minute program. Weather permitting. For more information, call (608) 526-4198. Sponsor: La Crosse County Holmen Library

Audiobook Walk
- Tuesday, July 7                            5:30pm
- La Crescent Farmer's Market, Veteran's Park, La Crescent
Bring your headphones and your favorite walking shoes and spend some time with the audiobook of your choice as we hit the La Crescent trails together! We’ll meet at a local trailhead and walk together, then stop for refreshments at a local business afterward. Tuesday, July 7th, 5:30pm at Eagles Bluff Park  - meet at the library’s Farmers Market tent. (Limited parking available at the Veterans Park
parking lot behind TimeOut Tavern, 595 Veterans Pkwy.) Refreshments at Swing Bridge Pub after the hike. Sponsor: La Crescent Public Library

Preschool Nature Explorers: Pond Critters
Wednesday, July 8                10:00am
 - Frontenac (MN) State Park,  - Frontenac (MN) State Park, 29223 County 28 Blvd, Frontenac, MN
Nature Explorers program for preschoolers (ages 3-6) with Project Get Outdoors interpretive naturalist Sara Holger and FSPA volunteers: Pond Critters. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Meet at the park’s main picnic shelter. Sponsors: Frontenac State Park Association/Project Get Outdoors

Nature Knowledge - Slithering into Your Heart
 - Thursday, July 9               10:00-11:00 am
 - Windom Park, 260 Harriet St, Winona, MN
During this program we will discover some of the common snakes found in southeastern Minnesota. We’ll learn about our local rattlesnakes and the copycats trying to trick us into thinking they are rattlesnakes too. We’ll even have a chance to meet the real thing! Join Winona Public Library and naturalists from Whitewater State Park at Windom Park to interactively learn about the plants & animals in our beautiful driftless area. We’ll start with a brief nature education piece, followed by activities and crafts related to the topic. This is great for ages 6 and up. Children under age 8 must be accompanied by an adult.  Sponsor: Winona Public Library/Whitewater State Park

 - Thursday, July 9               11:00am
- meet  at Great River Landing, 101 Irvin St, Onalaska WI
Enjoy a nature walk, stroies and activities designed to foster eco-literacy and fun for youth and their grown-ups. Explore a local trail as summer marches along at this free, approximately 45 minute program. Weather permitting. For more information, call (608) 781-9568. Sponsor: La Crosse County Onalaska Library

 - Thursday, July 9               5:00 - 6:30 pm
 - La Crescent -Hokah Elementary  School, 440 S. 6th St
 Join us for a Garden Party at the La Crescent-Hokah Elementary School Garden.  Ms. Amy will lead hands-on garden-themed activities and garden exploration throughout the event.  You can meet the NEW Elementary Principal, Ms. Cassellius! Emily from the La Crescent Public Library will have a station with special summer reading program information, a book giveaway and a garden themed story time at 5:30. The party is open to the public and FREE to attend. We will see you in the garden!  Sponsors: Grow La Crosse/ La Crescent-Hokah School District
See also  July 16 - Spence School Garden Party
               July 21 - Northside/Montessori School Garden Party
               July 22 -Northwoods International School Garden Party
               July 23 - Emerson School Garden Party 
               July 30 - Summit School Garden Party

 - Saturday, July 11             10:00am-2:00pm
 - Pettibone Park, La Crosse WI
Kids will enjoy hands-on activities like: Fishing; Archery; Casting a fly rod; Identifying furs, fish, and birds; Kayaking; Playing games; Interacting with live animals; Log Rolling Demonstrations …and so much more—all in one day, completely FREE! Sponsors: U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service – Midwest Fisheries Center/La Crosse Parks, Recreation & Forestry/Fox 25/48/Genoa National Fish Hatchery/Friends of the Upper Mississippi.

 - Saturday, July 11                   8:30- 10:30pm
- Wyalusing (WI) State Park, Huser Observatory, , 13081 State Park Lane, Bagley, WI
Star Splitters host free monthly programs during warm months with presentations and telescope viewings. Contact: www.starsplitters.org, starsplitterswsp@gmail.com Sponsors: Star Splitters of Wyalusingwith presentations and telescope viewings. 

  - Saturday, July 11       9:30-11:30am
  - Farmer's Park, Cty Rd 120, off Hwy 14, Winona MN
Bring your family out to Farmers Park on Saturday, July 11th, to enjoy the summer weather and explore the local streams of Stockton! This program focuses on collecting and observing the various aquatic macroinvertebrates that inhabit this local water source. Grab your water shoes and put on some sunscreen before you head out to the park to join us for a morning of fun! 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. nFree to Attend! Registration is required. Sponsor: Winona Outdoor Collaborative

Bluff Country Snakes
 - Saturday, July 11         10:00 am -noon   - Clearwater Farm, 760 Greens Coulee Rd, Onalaska
 - Saturday, July 11         2:00-4:00pm    - Goose Island Campground, La Crosse WI
Join us  for an immersive reptile education experience filled with fascinating facts, up-close encounters, and plenty of opportunities for hands-on exploration. Whether you’re curious, cautious, or completely snake-obsessed, this family-friendly program is designed to inspire wonder and connection with some of nature’s most misunderstood animals. A heartfelt thank you to La Crosse County Parks for sponsoring this special event and helping us bring wildlife education to our community. Sponsor: Bluff Country Snakes



 - Thursday, July 16                      10:00-11:00am
 - Holzinger Lodge, 925 W Lake Blvd, Winona MN
This program series from Winona Public Library for ages 3-6 and a caregiver is focused on using natural spaces to practice building blocks of early literacy: talk, write, read, and play! We’ll be outdoors for the whole program, so dress for the weather. Sturdy shoes are important, as we’ll spend part of the time on Holzinger Trail. Adults are required to be with children at all times. No pre-registration required. Sponsor: Winona Public Library

 - Friday, July 17              10:00am
 - Trempealeau National Wildlife Refuge, Outdoor Wonders Learning Center, 28488 Refuge Rd, Trempealeau, WI
Summer Storytime at the Trempealeau National Wildlife Refuge
Storytime at the refuge, sounds super fun! We have partnered together with the Shirley M. Wright Memorial Library to join the "Unearth a Story" Summer Library Program. The statewide Summer Library Program focuses on discovery, dinosaurs, nature, and community. Join us as we read, ‘Skunk's Spring Surprise’ by Lesleìa Newman, illustrated by Valeri Gorbachev. We will be incorporating music and movement and will also have an activity for participants to learn about skunks. Participants will have the opportunity of touching a skunk pelt and seeing a skunk skull.Sponsor: Trempealeau National Wildlife Refuge/Shirley M. Wright (Trempealeau) Memorial Library

- Saturday, July 18         10 am -11:30 am
 - Forestville Mystery Cave Park, William Morris’s Visitor Center
Caves, disappearing streams and sinkholes make up a landscape called karst. Cherry Grove Blind Valley Scientific and Natural Area is a hidden gem in the story of karst topography. Master Naturalist volunteer, Ann will reveal these unique geologic features up close on this 1 mile hike. Come prepared to cross over a shallow stream on stepping stones by wearing sturdy shoes. Bug spray is recommended too. Meet at the William Morrissey Visitor Center at Mystery Cave for a brief introduction and follow Ann in your own car about 6 miles to the Cherry Grove SNA. From State Hwy. 16, go 4 miles south on Co. Hwy. 5, then follow the signs to Mystery Cave. More Information: Call 507-352-5111.  Sponsor: MN DNR

 - Saturday, July 18               10:00-11:00 am
- Frontenac (MN) State Park,  - Frontenac (MN) State Park, 29223 County 28 Blvd, Frontenac, MN
Take a short, guided hike with Ranger Jake! He will lead visitors along trails through the upland area of the park pointing out a variety of natural features as they are encountered. Dress for the weather and bring sun and tick protection. Binoculars and cameras are nice accessories, but not necessary. The hike will last about an hour. This event is free. Sponsors: Frontenac State Park 

Bluff Country Snake Day
- Saturday, July 18                     10:00am-noon
- Hillsboro Public Library, 819 High Ave, Hillsboro WI
Welcome Bluff Country Snakes! Explore the fascinating world of snakes and other often misunderstood animals through our mobile animal shows. These immersive educational experiences focus on animal education, promoting curiosity while helping to reduce fear of snakes. Sponsors: Hillsboro Public Library/Bluff Country Snakes

 - Saturday, July 18                          11:00am -12:30pm
- Frontenac (MN) State Park,  - Frontenac (MN) State Park, 29223 County 28 Blvd, Frontenac, MN
Volunteer Master Naturalist Pam Miller will lead a walk to talk about fungi that grow in the park in mid-summer and their relationship to trees. Summer mushrooms include chanterelles and chicken of the woods. We'll hope to find some! Wear closed shoes and socks, long pants and long sleeves, and bring tick and mosquito protection. Questions? Email pamelamarianmiller@gmail.com. Meet at the campground shower building kiosk.This event is free. Sponsors: Frontenac State Park, Frontenac State Park Association

 - Saturday, July 18                6:00-7:00pm
- Whitewater State Park - meet at North Picnic Pavilion, 19041 Hwy 74, Altura, MN
On this hike, we will travel through time to learn about the geologic processes that formed the beautiful Whitewater River Valley. Find out how oceans, glaciers and raging rivers have shaped this landscape. Distance - 0.7 Miles, Elevation Gain 200 ft. Uneven surfaces. More Information: Contact Jeremy Darst at 507-312-2301 or by email at Jeremy.Darst@state.mn.us. Sponsor: Whitewater State Park

 - Saturday, July 18           8:00 pm 
 - Clear Creek Park, 1972 South Rd Dr, Lansing IA
Fireflies are one of the most captivating kinds of insects that Iowa has to offer. However, not many people know that firefly populations have declined over the past few decades. We will celebrate these bright bugs by learning ways to protect fireflies in Iowa and practicing safe catch-and-release. Sponsor: Allamakee County Conservation Board/Driftless Area Education and Visitor's Center

 - Saturday, July 18        8:30-9:30pm
- Whitewater State Park - meet at Chimney Rock Trailhead, 19041 Hwy 74, Altura, MN
Learn about Minnesota's bat population and the dreaded White Nose Syndrome that threatens their world. We will separate fact from fiction about these fascinating little animals. Program participants will aid in ongoing scientific research at the park by counting bats emerging from their daytime slumber. More Information: Contact Jeremy Darst at 507-312-2301 or by email at Jeremy.Darst@state.mn.us.  Sponsor: Whitewater State Park

 - Wednesday, July 22                    10am
 - Hurricane Hub, 202 S. Sheridan St, Houston MN
Hey kids, have you ever seen a vulture up close and personal? Now is your chance, as the Eagle Bluff Learning Center comes to town with a live vulture ambassador for kids to meet and learn about. Sponsor: Houston Public Library/Eagle Bluff Environmental Learning Center

Read with Bernice and Bluff Country Snakes
 - Wednesday July 22
    - 12:30pm   West Salem Public Library, 702 Industrial Dr, West Salem WI
    - 3:30 pm    Holmen Public Library, 121 W. Legion St, Holmen WI
    - 6:30pm     Campbell Public Library, 2548 Lakeshore Drive (French Island), La Crosse WI 
Join Bluff Country Snakes to learn more about reptiles and explore the wonderful world of snakes. You'll have the chance to ask questions and get as close to their gentle ambassador animals as your comfort allows. And you can read to a snake! No registration required | All ages welcome. Children under age 8 must be accompanied by an adult. Sponsor: La Crosse County Library



Fameflower Field Trip on the Lower Sand Prairie 
 - Thursday, July 23                   4 - 7:00pm
 - Kellogg MN Kwik Trip and caravan to this site on the Lower Sand Prairie
We will be looking for the Phemeranthus rugospermus Rough-seeded Fameflower which blooms from 4-7:00 pm on sunny days. Sometimes there are flowers blooming close to the parking area without having to hike. The majority of the Fameflowers are further into the prairie requiring hiking the sand dunes and hills, uneven terrain, through poison ivy and tall grass. Long pants, socks, and shoes are advised. In case of rain or heavy cloud cover we will meet the next day, Friday July 24 th same time 4 – 7 PM. This event does require advance registration, and only ten participants can attend. To register contact Nancy Falkum at 651-764-5605 or email guthrie55981@gmail.com

 - Saturday, July 25           9:00 am 
 - Paint Rock trailhead, Paint Rock Road, south of Harpers Ferry, IA
Participants in this hike can expect to see a variety of flowers in bloom typical of the unique “goat prairie” ecosystems found on area bluffs, and timber rattlesnake sightings are also possible. We will focus on the summer mushrooms that we can find fruiting along the trail. The hike will be about 2.5 miles round trip, with about 400 feet of elevation gain. Water, snacks, and sun protection highly recommended. Sponsor: Allamakee County Conservation Board/Driftless Area Education and Visitor's Center

 - Saturday, July 25             8:00-10:00 pm
 - Wildcat Mountain State Park, E13660 Hwy 33, Ontario, WI 
University of Wisconsin- Madison students will be presenting an astronomy program. A telescope will be available for viewing the night sky. Programs may be canceled due to inclement weather. Meet at the Amphitheater. This event is weather-dependent. Event Contact: Emily Alf, emily.alf@wisconsin.gov, 608-337-4775. Sponsors: Wildcat Mountain State Park/Badger Talks

 - Friday, July 31           1:30 pm 
 - Driftless Area Education and Visitor's Center, 1944 Columbus Rd, Lansing IA
Let the sun bring your creativity to life! A cyanotype is an old-school photographic technique that uses UVA radiation (sunlight) to print a blue-and-white image. In this program, we will use objects found in nature as the subject of our print. This program is open to all ages. All materials provided. Registration required, limited to 20 participants. Call 563-538-0400 to register. Sponsor: Allamakee County Conservation Board/Driftless Area Education and Visitor's Center

Do you know of other July 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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