Ridge Run County Park - West Bend

Ridge Run County Park
Originally uploaded by WheretogoWisconsin

West Bend (Washington Cty)

for directions and what to see the original post.


Yet another excursion to my little piece of heaven, my slice of serenity, my haven of happiness....*sigh*


It turned out that there was a special event happening this day at the Girl Scout Camp which meant no worries of trespassing and my flickr companion got a free lunch and my undying gratitude for coming with this crazy lady.


A 65 acre easement purchase made by the Ice Age Trail Foundation provided a protected pass through the Girl Scout Camp (ie, Camp Silverbrook) which traditionally was a No Trespassing Zone, which is also traditionally ignored. Reading a bit about the milestones of this hard fought project made this Oshkosh transplant proud


Today, our walk consisted of me trying to photograph the falling leaves, mossy rocks, light rays passing through leaves, and the various flora (alas, no fauna to be seen today) with some limited success. I wore out my hiking partner and returned to Oshkosh energized, and wanting more.


This trip reaffirmed my belief that I need to find those of my ilk who can return multiple times to a place and find different enchantments. My desire to guide is just as strong as the need to be guided and shown new places to explore.

Maybe they are out there, and maybe they are not. I will continue to journal my experiences and report my findings.

Shore Walkers - Lake Geneva

Lake Geneva, Fontana, Williams Bay (Walworth Cty)

Back to relive some very old childhood memories. In 1970-s, there were no posted signs marking the lake path. Shore walkers did not exist as a class of tourists. This post isn't really to advertise that the shore path exists. There are plenty of ways of learning that. But for the sake of being consistent to the Wheretogo viewers I promise to provide such details. This post is a purely selfish move so that I can relive my most recent excursion into reliving this particular time in my life. I am returning again, hopefully later after the Chicagoans have all gone home. While the shore hike was pleasant and relatively bug free (if you don't count the humans, of course), it was too humid and it the clinging haze really effected some of the shots.

This leg of the shore path starts from Linn Rd, heading east towards the Country Club. This headstone is the last remaining piece of a family plot that existed long ago, now gone. To see more details I would recommend reading my Shore Walker Photostream. It doesn't make sense to use up my precious blogger space with photos that also exist on my Flickr page, plus they don't really move the story along.

The Shore Path (or lake path as I always called it) was originally an Indian Footpath and in order for this path to remain for public use a county ordinance was set. For lakefront owners who fought the right of way, the city had historical relevance to rest upon. The shore path is unique to Geneva Lake. I know of no other place that allows unfettered access onto private property. My last visit, about 10 years ago, those cute shore path signs didn't exist. I know that because my oldest, who was 14 at the time would not follow his mother onto the lake.


WheretoFind:The lake path can be picked up at several points around the lake: Big Foot Beach State Park (Park Sticker Req'd) also Big Foot Beach Park same area,different parking lot), Lake Geneva's Library Park, Williams Bay Beach, Fontana Beach, Chapin Road, Linn Pier Road. A list of distances between hiking points on the shore path as provided by silentsports.net:
Fontana to Williams Bay 3.2 miles
Williams Bay to Chapin Road 3.3 miles
Chapin Road to Library Park, town of Lake Geneva 3.3 miles
Library Park to Linn Pier Road 5.3 miles
Linn Pier Road to Fontana 5.2 miles



What to expect: 
If you decide you want to hike the entire tour around the lake, plan about 14 hours, and to choose a starting point beside Lake Geneva's downtown area. I suggest the Linn Rd location, but there are probably better points but that is my preference.  It is isolated from the madness that is part of Lake Geneva every summer.  This location is also a popular boat launch, so arrive early.


Update 04/03/2015:  For the shore walkers that are still in town, there are little boat taxi's called Mouettes that run 4 routes.  These are not the same as the water taxi.

Newspaper articles discussing the history of the City's Name
It is Geneva Lake
Old records tell story of the discovery and naming of beautiful Lake Geneva

Appleton Flickr Wallk 09-14-08

I was apprehensive as I wove my way through downtown Appleton, watching for Drew Street. This was my first blind meeting and knew nothing of what was going to happen. We were to meet at City Park at 10:30 am at the fountain, and that was all I knew. Appleton Flickr Walk 09/14/08
Originally uploaded by WheretogoWisconsin
Eventually I found the Park and right at the fountain stood 5 cameras attached to their owners, so I had no concerns that I was approaching the wrong group, my own EasyShare tucked safely in my back pocket.

I share this experience for others who have never done a blind event such as a Flickrwalk. It is smart to be cautious when meeting people you know from some online group. At some point you judge the situation and either join or decline. Personally I am on a mission to lose my hermit-in-training status.


We wandered the grounds of Lawrence University and surrounding neighborhoods, attempting to stay out of the shots that others were making. It was a tad nippy, but I preferred it to the mugginess as of late. No one complained!

The pace was slow and the conversation easy. The buildings and grounds made for an interesting study, so I am curious to view the uploads and will update the post accordingly. I particularly enjoyed the smiles pasted on various hydrants, waste baskets and one member found one that was on glass. Someone out there knows how to appeal to my mischievous nature.

The whole thing lasted about 2 hours and if it wasn't for the fact that I left my purse in my car we would have had lunch, so I felt bad about that. We agreed that it was a success and made plans to do this regularly and each member is to play host.


Watch the Fox Cities Discussion Group for our next event.

Road Trip - Washington Cty

Lucas Lake
Originally uploaded by WheretogoWisconsin

Ridge Run Cty Park, West Bend

See that building off in the distance? That is the lodge for the Girl Scout Camp, which is a no trespassing zone, as noted by the plethora of signs posted above a heavily traveled path right into it.

A gorgeous day, and I dragged my kids with me. Didn't see or experience anything out of the ordinary. Skipped stones, caught frogs, and made them pose for me.

We also stopped at Riveredge Nature Center in Newburg, which was closed, so we did not spend that much time there. Then the kids were complaining of being bored. They were sick of being around nature and wanted to head home. So after a short battle with pinecones, we nursed our scratches and scrapes and headed to Canton House to get a quick meal to take back home in Oshkosh.

to be continued...

Hoping to develop a hiking group - any interest?

On a whim, I posted a query on a few Wisc Flickr groups to see if a potential hiking/photography group could be developed. Thankfully, I received some responses.

So now I am throwing out another line to see who bites. It's like fly fishing for Wisconsinites. I have no real format decided upon, but I came to the conclusion that my kids won't always be around to be my hiking partner forever, and if I have a desire to share the places I go to, perhaps others do as well.

There are a lot of places I still have never gone to, but can't seem to get the family to actually want to go on a trip (to wherever), because they know my trips are with nature and they seem to have gotten their fill already.

For those who may be interested and are looking for what to expect with this kind of group (a reasonable request I believe), my vision for this kind of group will travel to a planned area and spend the afternoon walking around, snapping photos and enjoying the day. Afternoon could just as easily be mornings (I am a morning person, and oftentimes wake up at 5 am with an itch to go somewhere, anywhere).

Personally, I try to avoid schedules because I know that things should ebb and flow naturally, but I am aware that a timeframe is needed for most people.

Places on my wannagoto list right now are: Door County, Devil's Lake/Palfrey's Glen, Lake Geneva (Lake Path, Big Foot Beach area), Holy Hill/Glacier Blue Hills.

Places on my wannashare list are: Ridge Run Cty Park/Cedar Valley Retreat Center(Washington Cty), Horicon Ledge (Dodge Cty), Barkhausen Waterfowl Preserve (Brown Cty).

*UPDATED 09/06/08*

Most people I have talked to about starting a hiking group agrees that a reasonable travel distance is 1-1.5 hours max.

What would really help me is to get an idea on where you want to go - since you can see where I've been :) -

I am thrilled to show off the places that I've been to and my only concern is to make the trip worthwhile and to always have a backup plan.

Would it make more sense to start a yahoo group on this? Obviously it would be moderated and approved memberships to avoid the spamalot that happens. Something worth pondering, I think....


** Updated 09/14/2008 **


An Appleton Flickr walk was scheduled for 09/14/2008 and that post can be found here

Riggs County Park - Ripon

Ripon (Fond du Lac Cty)

First stop in my Road Trip from Saturday. Fond du Lac County's largest park in the system, it spans 300 acres. I wish I could say I traversed the entire park but it was more like 2/3rds.

This is a great park for birding. Well, I suppose any open prairie land is. My favorite picture was taken within the first half hour. On a grassy path, I approached a bend when a hawk (Northern Harrier according to my Flickr query) was startled into flight. What I didn't expect was to see it come back. It took three passes at me and was at times within 4 feet of tagging me, as I was frantically snapping away. Only three pics were passable. It was probably incredibly stupid of me to be standing there, but I seem to have the tenacity of the paparazzi when all that matters is getting the shot. Side note: based on the description on this site, the hawk has to be a harrier and I was too close to its nest. Originally I thought perhaps a cooper's hawk.

Aside from a number of birds, frogs, garter snakes, curious gophers, and monarch butterflies, there were zero humans. Pondering this I often ask whether I should be out by myself. This is a bit of a problem for me. Hiking is somewhat of a spiritual pilgrimage. I try to access all of my senses and I find it difficult to to really enjoy the moment when others are with me, mainly because my concern is for their experience. This probably isn't a fair assessment, since my hiking partners tend to be one of my kids, and are not always a willing participant.

At one point, I realized that I was probably dehydrated and sunburnt when I took a short break under a shady copse and took stock of my situation. My car was a short hike away, but the shortest route was through marshland, which would've been hell on my shoes. No, I stuck to the grassy trails until I could find some drier prairie land and made my way across. Needless to say, once I arrived at the car, I was more than ready to head to my next destination: Ledge Homestead and Rienzi Cemetery.

Wheretofind: For a map, go to Fond du Lac Cty's website and print off the map page. Forget about Googling it, it's not there. Just west of Ripon on Hwy 23. At Douglas turn north and the park entrance to the right is the bridge with the Historic (yet empty)Tenant House. Second entrance is on Hwy 23, right across from that little beige motel. I came from that direction and completely missed it. The park entrance sign was placed at the trail head, not at the park entrance. Jeeeeez. UPDATE 04/15/2015 - Park has since been loaded onto Google Maps

Incidentally, the man made trail spans between the two entrances, and the rest of the trails are hastily mowed, one having white markers that lead to the observation desk, which is where I found this funny looking set of four hollow markers, which doesn't seem to lead anywhere. The plant growth are really sticking out of the top. If these are trees, they weren't doing very well.

What to expect: Wide Open Spaces. Creature and vermin. Grasses and weeds. This is typical of the new conservation parks that have been cropping up as of late.

Rienzi Cemetery - Fond du Lac

Rienzi Cemetery, Empire/Fond du Lac (Fond du Lac Cty)

Note: THIS PARK HAS AN AUTOMATIC GATE AND ONLY ONE ENTRANCE.

Local genealogy site has a wealth of information including the care of copying headstone inscriptions, and a link to civil war letters.

A nondenominational cemetery, it holds all the elements of a site worth visiting. I am continually impressed with what I find during research because it illustrates our need to preserve and pass on the knowledge of our families.

It also happens to be my favorite place for driving lessons.  I fondly remember an occasion where my aunt let me drive in a cemetery when we were attending a reunion in Michigan.

Where to find: Outskirts of Fond du Lac. Heading east on Hwy 23, follow it halfway up hill, then take Cty Hwy K right. You will pass my Ledge Homestead haunt, and also the ginormous Lutheran Church. Continue through the 4 way stop and it will be on your left. You can't miss it. It looks like a cemetery.


What to expect: Classic tombstones of the 1800s, veteran site, pet cemetery, pauper's section and also one devoted to the Jewish Holocaust victims. A diverse collection of headstones and a parklike setting. On my Flickr site you will see some headstones that are in the language of that person's homeland, which I have never seen before. Have you?

Road Trip

Took another road trip yesterday, this time to explore some of Fond du Lac County Parks.

It did not go as planned.

My first stop was at Riggs County Park in Ripon, and I only planned to stay there a short time, not three hours. But rarely am I ever on a real schedule, and the experience is always better when I take my time. Most things are.

The hardest part was keeping my eyes on the road. My eyes were constantly scanning for Rural Decay and because of the cirrus clouds drifting above us I was hoping to get a glimpse of the rare circumhorizon arcs.

Then I traveled to Rienzi Cemetery and my old Death Watch Ledge Homestead. Rienzi was a busy place, and I witnessed at least one person wandering the grounds with camera in hand, just like I was. When I left for my Road Trip it was around 11 in the morning, and when I left Rienzi it was 5-ish. The Ledge Homestead had a surprise in store for me. Someone is mowing the lawn there. As I wandered the grounds I found the riding mower inside a decrepit barn.

Whether it is out of cowardice or presence of mind I won't explore an empty building alone. Maybe it's from watching Lassie or Little House on the Prairie, or Texas Chainsaw Massacre. Either way, a part of me is convinced that someone is watching from inside and is just waiting for me to turn my back. I felt this BIG TIME at this barn (pictured here).

Petrifying Springs County Park - Kenosha

Petrifying Springs County Park
Originally uploaded by WheretogoWisconsin

Kenosha (Kenosha County)

Spent part of my weekend in Racine/Milw for a reunion, and in all the years I have been coming to visit in Racine, I've never had a chance to stop here. Due to a lack of mosquito spray and time constraints, I did not spend much time there. I will have to return in fall for a more thorough exploration.

*ahem*
There are a few restored buildings that were of some historical note for the area and also includes an Old Indian Trail at Hawthorn Hollow, which traverses just to the east of where the historical buildings are now located, is on the map of a government survey made in 1835 by engineers Mullet, Brink, Hathaway, Lyons, and Silby (cited from Hawthorne History page)

This is no camping at this park (some county parks do, only Horicon/Dodge CountyLedge comes to mind at this moment) But there is a county run 18-hole golf course, which I believe is accessed from Cty Hwy A (or 7th Street). It is also home of Hawthorn Hollow Nature Center, 880 Green Bay Road (Hwy 31) in Kenosha. NOTE: Google nabbed the hawthornhallow.org as an origin of malware and blocked my access to it. since then I've removed the link.


Because I do not know of any incidents that happened in the past with lone hikers, I insist that you travel with someone. I mention this only because of the parks proximity to the university, and they seem to attract wierdos.

What I really enjoyed was a high 'come hither' quality created by bridges, stairs, shelters and quaint buildings.

Where to find: Petrifying Springs Park is located between the cities of Kenosha and Racine, just East of Highway 31 (Green Bay Road) with park entrances on either County Road A or County Road JR. There are signs at the entrances.

What to expect: Plenty of available parking, trails of varying difficulty, bathrooms!, very well cared for grounds, unique bridges and rentable shelters and plenty of picnic areas. As mentioned on Kenosha County Park's website, this park, along with Fox River, Silver Lake, Old Settlers and Brighton Dale Parks are open from 7:00 a.m. until 10:00 p.m; and is locked up by the sheriff's dept. The golf courses are open from about March through November, weather permitting. To contact call (262) 857-1869.

Cedar Valley Retreat Center - West Bend

West Bend (Washington Cty) ** UPDATED POST **

photo credit: cedarcommunity.org/retreat-center-cedar-valley

I was always curious about this place, and found that it was part of a HUGE retirement community that also included Ye Olde School House right on the main campus grounds (The main campus located on Hwy Z). Note: To clarify, this retreat center is not located in the same area. I used to live in Kohlsville, and when traveling to town would have to pass here and always assumed it was a church. Eventually my curiosity bested me and I began to plot my trespassing strategy. If the parking lot is empty, I would roam freely. If there is a car, I will go in and ask to wander the grounds . Once I was told that a $5 donation was appreciated for a such a visit. At times I have discovered other trespassers and we respectfully kept our distances while eyeing each other warily and relaxing as only trespassers can. I suspect that with this post I am breaking some trespassing code of secrecy.

Where to Find: 5349 County Road D, West Bend. From Hwy 41 - take Cty Hwy D exit and head east through Kohlsville (towards West Bend), and watch for the entrance on the right (exact distance is not known, feels like it's about a mile). At the entrance is also a hobby farm - which may or may not be open to the Cedar Valley public. I know it was at one time, that was many moons ago. Note that it is missing from the amenities list on the retreat centers website. For those who use Hwy 45 - take the Hwy D exit and head west, this road will go up a hill and then snake around (slow down, the turn is surprisingly sharp), and it will be on the left in about a mile. To call in advance: 262-629-9202, or email: cvcinfo@cedarcommunity.org

What to expect: Both paved and unpaved trails, with interesting sculptures along the way, bridge, gazebo, pond w/paddle and rowboat. From the main parking lot there is a paved trail that heads up a hill, it will lead you to a cement teepee structure that is a tiny church used for paying respects.

Hobbs Woods County Park - Fond du Lac

Fond du Lac (Fond du Lac Cty)

A large patch of woods surrounded by farm fields. Don't be fooled by the vague description. It is worth the 1/2 hour trip from Oshkosh. I like this park because I can let my kids roam without a huge concern that they will get lost. On that note, before letting your kids roam, run the trail a few times with them. We have had the 'how to find the car' discussion and thankfully that is one conversation that stuck with them.

This trip was especially buggy, so we did not spend a whole lot of time there. My next trip will be when it is cooler. We did cross a creek, ate some black rasperries, and snapped a few pics.

The jewel of Hobbs Woods is actually Parson's Creek that winds it way around the 3 acre area and in any season lends itself to tons of subjects to photograph.  The photo to the upper right is my daughter taken in 2008.

Wheretofind: Hwy 41 to Hickory Road Exit, head west (away from Fondy) and you will be going through an industrial park. Continue following this road until you reach the stop sign which is the corner of Hickory and Larsen. Ahead of you is a farm to the right, and right across from that is the entrance to Hobbs Woods.

What to expect: Shallow creeks, natural trails, steep hills with some rest benches, cross country ski trail. No bathroom unless you count the privacy provided by trees and shrubbery.

Ridge Run County Park - West Bend

West Bend (Washington Cty)

This has to be my most favorist park to go a-wondering (misspelling intentional). These days it is an hour drive, but it's worth every mile I traverse to get there. It is the first park that reawakened the explorer in me and every time I return it is a fond reunion.

There are a few warts; mainly the big ugly drainage tubes in one section. Some sections have pondscum and sludginess, traffic noises from the highway, but that really is the worst of it. The minute you hit the trail, all is forgiven. Trust me.

Wheretofind:
There are two entrances to this park, the most common is to take Hwy 45 to Hwy 33 west, then turn left onto University (Mobil Station on corner), park entrance is on the right before UW extension campus. Second entrance is on Scenic Dr. The Google map shows a connecting road through the park -- it is only for pedestrians and county park workers.

West Bend is also very near to Sunburst, which technically is in Kewaskum, which is really where you start when trekking the Kettle Moraine (note County Hwy S on your map). From here you can get to Parnell Tower, Long Lake, Mauthe Lake, Dundee, and some of the most beautiful scenic roadways in the area. Trying to find a map of scenic drives? Good Luck. DNR Page is utter crap. What I call crap is a 2-pg pdf scenic drive breakdown. For Pete's sake, someone had to write all that down. I feel sorry for that poor chap.

For you Gentle Reader, I have found a map from a Milw Journal (JSOnline) article written by Cliff Christl that shows a route from Milwaukee around the Northern Unit and also a route around the Southern unit.

What to expect: Popular for fishing, natural trails with rest benches, cross country ski trails and also for its sledding hill. West Bend actually has lots of sledding hills, being on the edge of the Kettle Moraine area. Nice shelters for large picnics, one with a fire pit, modern playgrounds, heated bathrooms. **Trail leads to Girl Scout Camp Ground and/or the Ice Age Trail, depending on which entrance you take. GS Camp is flagged with 'no trespassing signs' which is often ignored if you notice how worn the trail is.

O'Hauser Park - Menasha

Neenah-Menasha (Winnebago Cty)

O'Hauser Park
Originally uploaded by WheretogoWisconsin

This is where I eat my lunch when the day is fair.

Just looking at this brings me peace. Some days it's pretty tough to see the beauty in anything, and when I arrive I know it will be a quiet place to reflect.

Today it was pretty buggy. Imagine a small swarm of bloodthirsty mosquitoes following me in their haphazard way. I left my sweater on for the added protection, but my face and neck didn't fare so well.

There seems to be some misunderstanding as to whose park this belongs to, and the winner is the Town of Menasha (not the city, and not the county as I've experienced).

You may or may not have read other posts of mine, but to reiterate: my main resource to the parks I have gone is by thumbing through the city's phone book. I used to live in West Bend, so I have gotten to know that area quite well, and now in the past decade it's been the Fox Valley that I have been exploring.

Just a light warning, this is not the kind of park to visit if you live more than 15 minutes away. If you are willing to do some park-hopping, then I would indeed have suggestions to plan an afternoon.

The reason I like this park has to do with the 'come hither' quality in so many areas. I fell in love with the bench swings, I have followed the wooded trails and have found little hidden alcoves and traversed a small brook. It somehow has stuck a balance between a public park and a private escape.

Wheretogo: O'Hauser is on 1987 O'Leary Rd, which is located off of Irish Rd and is between Winchester (Cty Hwy II) and Jacobsen Rd (map). Note: Entrance to park is found when travelling down Irish, go over the tracks and the first left is O'Leary and you will follow that to the stop sign. Go left and you will find the start of their 18-hole Disc Gold Course, go straight and the entrance to either North and South is right past it.

What to expect: There is a South and a North O'Hauser Park. South is the cool park, and the North is where the big fancy playground is. Not to worry, they are right across the street from each other.

1000 Islands Environmental Center - Kaukauna

1000 Islands
Originally uploaded by WheretogoWisconsin

Kaukauna (Outagamie Cty)

The title of this really should be 'Looking for those #@$%! Pelicans' and my search has taken me to KAK-Kawna. I have to laugh when I say that town's name; sounds like someone's choking. Who knows what the town's real name was.

Anyhoo....the Fox River has overrun her banks as you can clearly see at the 1000 Islands Environmental Center due to last weeks storm, the very same storm that days before ripped through a boy scout camp in Iowa. The riverbank trails are the wooded plank type (seen in other pics), and several of those trails were blocked off.

Unfortunately, that barricade didn't stop me, though I have no real desire to gamble my life I couldn't help but try see why the trail was closed. If it didn't stop me imagine a couple of kids or drunken college students.

My review of this park was somewhat handicapped due to the amount of mud I had to navigate when hiking the upper woods portion of the park, which lie across the highway. However, there was much more activity on the main section, experiences which have imprinted itself upon my memory of this place. Like this fawn, for instance. He/she scampered towards me, bleating. I could go on, explaining every detail, but I grieve that it will not be able to convey the wonder I felt. It was a rare occurrance and I believed I was honored by its grace.

HOW TO FIND: The nature center is found on Dodge Street, tucked between the baseball and football park. The easiest way to take Hwy 41 North all the way round Appleton, Little Chute, to Cty J exit. You are coming into Kaukauna from the north on Hwy 55 and this will turn into Lawe, which you will follow into town, over the bridge and when you see Dodge, turn Left and watch for the sports park. You can also come up from Hwy 57, taking Cty Hwy Z west, which turns into Dodge in Kaukauna. Easy Peazy.

What to expect: A better review. Frankly I did not stay long enough to go into the nature center itself. This park has some nice winding trails along the Fox River. There are connecting trails from the main section to the upper wooded one. There is an eagle's nest there somewhere.

Oh, and there's Pelicans.

circumhorizon arc @ 58 degrees

How about some geeky science facts.

First, I learn about sundogs which appear @ 22 degrees above the horizon, which I do see from to time, though for all the years that I have been aiming my face towards the sky it's only been the last 4 or 5 years that I have seen these appear.

Circumhorizon arc, as reported on SpaceWeather.com, are also called summer arc's and fire rainbows, "appear only when the sun is more than 58-degrees above the horizon--in short, during the hottest part of long summer days." My photo was taken June 28th and I think we hit 75-80 that day in Appleton.

Not to be confused with Circumzenithal arcs which appear @32 degrees above the horizon. From what I can see the zenithal is an an actual arc, but the horizon is more smudgy. Check out the different photos from spaceweather site; simply gorgeous.

This source shows what the difference is between the two types, plus what is and is not a rainbow.

Quarry Lake in Redgranite

Quarry Lake in Red Granite
Originally uploaded by WheretogoWisconsin

Red Granite (Waushara Cty)

Photo Credit: www.redgranitewisconsin.com

On a recent Road Trip I stopped at this popular quarry park. This park is right off of Hwy 21 and I  didn't see ANY signs that identified it as a park - just a tiny GREEN sign (no bigger than a No Parking sign) announcing 'QUARRY'.

This is a pretty popular place, people were fishing and I watched a few people walking with scuba gear (reading later that they have lessons here).

When I take these Road Trips I leave with the hope of finding a nice trail. That didn't really happen, and I will continue my hunt online until the price of gas drops.

What I did experience was a battle between 2 crows and a hawk in pretty close proximity to where I was standing, that I almost stepped on two eggs that were on the ground. Judging from the bird sites I visited, these were hawks' eggs.


Now it may be early enough for baby hawks to hatch, but because of the way the hawk was screeching and refusing to leave the area I believed I was witnessing a hostile attack versus the typical harassing to drive a unwanted bird from claimed territory.

This is the closest I have ever gotten to such a battle, and I was mesmerized.


As I was driving out of Red Granite on Hwy 21 (west) I saw a MT MORRIS COUNTY PARK sign and followed it on Cty S. There is a entrance to a State Fishery, but no Mt Morris County Park. Even Googling it took me nowhere. So I concluded that what they considered to be Mt Morris County Park is NORDIC MOUNTAIN.

Here is the 2nd most interesting thing I saw on my Road Trip, I call it a gaggle of cattle.

Wheretogo:  Travel time is approximately 30-40 minutes west of Oshkosh or 15 minutes east of Wautoma on Hwy 21.

What to expect:  A quarry lake. A tiny trail system.

Weather Anomaly

Menasha (Outagamie Cty)

Perhaps someone out there has seen this before. I will show a few pictures that I took Wednesday afternoon. This is NOT a rainbow, and it did not dissipate like smoke, so my assumption was cloud/vapors of some sort, but not of
a natural sort.



I am hoping that maybe someone will see this and understand.


*** UPDATE: see Circumhorizon arc post. ***

Rocky Arbor State Park - Wisconsin Dells

Rock and Wood
Originally uploaded by jw_creations

West of Wisconsin Dells (Sauk Cty)

I didn't expect to blog about this park until I had a chance to check it out. Since my introduction to Flickr I have come to appreciate the talents of others to reveal the beauty of Wisconsin in a way that I never could. What I liked most about this picture was the timeless quality - one could just as easily expect to see a wooly mammoth as a couple of American hikers.

This park is only open for camping starting Memorial Day (May) to Labor Day (Sept) with day use available year round. There is a short nature trail and wild raspberries are free for the taking. What information I was able to find on the internet, the description reminds me of what Roche-a-Cri State Park is like. Heavy on the camping, and not much of anything else.

My own trips to the Dells usually entails finding the least expensive way to wile the day without bringing home unwanted visitors. Specifically, ticks. When I make my way to Sauk County my purpose would be to review Rocky Arbor and hopefully find some county parks.

Wheretofind: Located 5 minutes northwest from Wisconsin Dells, travel time from Oshkosh 1 hour, 45 minutes (from Fond du Lac you can follow Hwy 23 west,southwest to Wis Dells).

Kohler-Andrae State Park - Sheboygan

Sheboygan (Sheboygan Cty)

Used to be called Terry Andrae State Park.   I have mixed feelings about this park. It is right on the lake which is great for those who want to avoid the crowd at any other beach and you don't have to go far to get a snack or go to the bathroom. It has a very nice Interactive Nature Center; however you wouldn't know that as I could not find any mention of it anywhere except for the Wildernet.com site I stumbled onto, which I now have bookmarked. It is called The Sanderling Nature Center,

You know, one shouldn't have to work so hard to get information....which confirms yet again why I should continue putting this blog together. Well, enough about me for now.

On a humorous note, the DNR page boasts it being ' naturally air conditioned'.

Typically there is about a 10-degree difference lakeside (don't quote me on this, I'm using my 'feels-like' barometer, though I will accept the credit if I am correct). On most days that means, bring a jacket, just in case.

Where to find: From I-43 take Cty Rd OK/V (exit 120) east, turning right onto Cty Rd V about 2 miles. Cty Rd V will curve left (north) to the northern trail head and P1 Parking, but you to reach the nature center,continue straight on Beach Park Ln. It will fork in a few places but you want to be going south and P3 Parking is the nature center. (map)

What to expect:   * Park Permit required (day passes can be purchased).  Sand, and lots of it everywhere. Lots of camping available, though in reading the reviews on the WILDERNET site, there is a mention about ANTS. Also, there is Looping and Non-Looping, specifically: Creeping Juniper Nature Trail, and Woodland Dunes Nature Trail (ADA segment) -- I don't know if this trail is linked with WOODLAND DUNES NATURE CENTER (Manitowoc-Two Rivers area), that part I am still researching and will update accordingly (at this point I'm thinking there's no connection).

One final note: I am totally thrilled to have found the Wildernet.com site. To be honest, it is exactly what I envisioned this blog to be, but even more technical than what I have the patience for. When surfing, you will have to scroll down to find more information and the Trip Reports which is the the area for reading the reviews, just like my site. And you have to be registered, just like my site.

Pinecrest Historical Village - Manitowoc

Manitowoc (Manitowoc Cty)

Just a short blurb about this quaint village.

When we arrived, it was during their German Fest celebration in September and we enjoyed live demonstrations, wagon rides, live music, food, festivities, I cannot say for certain what you will see any other time that is not a scheduled event. I will try to contact someone to find more information.

The road to this village is also on the way to Lower Cato Falls County Park.

Manitowoc has made it possible for others to find where their great parks are located, so I was well pleased with their efforts.

Manitowoc/Two Rivers Visitor's Guide
Manitowoc's Historical Society
Wheretofind:  Travel time is approximately 15 minutes west of Manitowoc off of Hwy JJ, a bit over an hour from Oshkosh.

What to expect: Open daily May 1st - October 24th, 9:00 am - 4:00 pm $6 per person, $4 for children, $15 for families, MCHS members receive free daily admission. Located  924 Pinecrest Ln Manitowoc, WI 54220. ph:920-684-5110 or em: mchistsoc@lakefield.net

Self-guided tour around the 60 acre outdoor museum to explore and learn about Wisconsin folk and how they lived during the 1850-early 1900s. Buildings such as Blacksmith, General Store (Gift Shop), Church, dance hall, railroad passenger car, the Cheese shop (sample cheese curds and making butter), seamstress shop (free homemade necklaces), schoolhouse, and also furnished homesteads.

**Update**
It did not take long at all to hear back from the Manitowoc Historical Society. Mike Maher was kind enough to say that on non-event days they provide a cassette player that will walk the observer through the site describing the buildings and events as they might've happened on a typical day. I imagine that the buildings are locked up, so access is obviously limited, though having the place to oneself could be wonderfully creepy.

Lower Cato Falls County Park - Clark Mills

Clarke Mills (Manitowoc Cty)

Here is another example of places I discover while on my way to 'elsewhere' during a Road Trip. I whizzed past the sign and drove in to just check things out. Click here for the gloogled map. What I was attempting to show on the lovely photo wasn't just the size of the rapid but the huge limestone shelf on the other side that appears to be unclimbable for regular folk - great fun for those with no fear. I can try to get another shot of it but with my current camera status I know it will be utter crap.

Wheretofind: This Road Trip started at Kohler-Andre State Park (Sheboygan Cty), ended at Pinecrest Historical Village (Manitowoc Cty), and I was heading west on JJ and a bit before you reach the Clark Mills intersections is where this park can be found on the right.

This park is listed on the American Whitewater site, and the link I've provides a great deal of information for kayakers as far as starting/finishing point, length, rapid classification and a fair warning on the quality of the water should you fall in.

What to expect: Upper/Lower section with stairs leading to the rivers edge at each end (Manitowoc River, that is). Picnic and playground areas and short trails as seen on this map. Actually this link says there are 4 stairways and I only found 2, which means I still haven't fully explored this park yet.

Sidenote: I left off the hiking label on this post -- the trails did not seem long enough to warrant hiking status in my book. Meaning, that I would not make a Road Trip solely for the purpose of hiking, which is what I use to classify the label.

Lakeview Cemetery - Stockbridge

Stockbridge, Calumet Cty

Only a few will catalog their visit to a cemetery, for good reasons I suppose. Not every one will understand the allure of walking amongst those whose bones have been resting as long, if not longer than Wisconsin's statehood was declared.

A coworker mentioned this small plot and on my first try I didn't find it. As a matter of fact, I completely missed a HUGE county park on a road I swore I drove on. Oy vey, what does it matter anyhow.

A ginormous tree guards the entrance to the cemetery. We don't see too many trees that last this long 'fore weather or disease lays it to waste. Incidentially, this tree is a DNR registered Champion Tree and can be found by searching their database by county name (Calumet).

During my investigation, there are a number of headstones that are broken, felled, and in one corner appears to be several that collided in a great upheaval of sorts, by natural forces or otherwise. If you follow the image link you will see a better image of how many stones there are. It's disturbing to see this in a cemetery. I have always taken for granted that someone is acting a caretaker, and at Rienzi Cemetery, there is actually an effort within the community to volunteer their time and materials to maintain the site.

Road Trip

Saturday's weather shore was beautiful. The rumble of a motorcycle lifts my spirits. Last weekend I was inspired to go on a road trip to the Quiet Side of the Lake and drove around Calumet County with a short stop at Rienzi Cemetery in Fondy before snapping a few photos of an abandoned home I now title Death Watch.

On Friday (04/04/08) I had business to take care of in West Bend and stopped at Lac Lawrann Conservancy, a 136 acre preserve that in all the years I have lived in this town have never been to. I snapped a few photos and when I looked at them at home realized that my camera was unable to pick up the color contrasts (due to the lighting perhaps,or my camera is utter crap) The pine to the right is tipped with yellow-green and to my eyes should have stood out from the winter washed kettle below.

While I drove around my old town, I discovered a new piece of land named Fellenz Woods, purchased by the Ozaukee Washington Land Trust (OWLT) in 1999. This is found on County I, east of West Bend High School -- Decorah Ave turns into Cty I incidentally. I am immensely proud of the town I came from and continue to applaud its caretakers for having the vision to preserve the land that will only improve the value of its lands and also the quality of life for its residents, something that Oshkosh is currently struggling with. If there is a bright spot for Oshkosh it was the development of Menominee Park, and Little Oshkosh where I took my daughter yesterday.

I wrap up my blog entry before 8 am with the intention of taking a road trip back to the Quiet Side of the Lake, to snap some photos and expand my knowledge of the area.

It promises to be in the 50s today,the sun is trying to be seen between the breaks in the clouds, and that is enough for me.

Parfrey's Glen State Natural Area - Baraboo

(Sauk Cty) see also Devil's Lake State Park

Anyone else misspelling the name of this park? It took me a while to realize that it's Parfrey not Palfrey. Not to mention that it is frustrating when the Baraboo area's websites take you to dead links. I'd rather be rickrolled. At any rate, since it is a State Natural Area, a sticker is required. If you plan to make the trip, make a day of it and get as much use out of that $18 that you had to spend (unless you have a spare $5 for a daily pass).

If being surrounded by rocks makes you a bit squeamish this place is not for you. When I was climbing around Horicon Ledge (Dodge Cty Ledge), the thought occurred to me that the forces of nature will eventually make these rocks unstable and today could be that day.

My curiosity of course won out, and I lived to see another day.



Flickr seems to be the only place online to find the best photos of the places I love to visit, and until I get a decent camera (or learn how to take good pictures, that might help) I will pay my due diligence by paying homage to the author of these wonderful images.


Wheretofind: Travel time is about 1 hour, 50 minutes from Oshkosh, only a 1/2 hour from Wisconsin Dells and 15 minutes from Devils Lake State Park.

What to expect: Rocks, slippery moss, jutting rocks, and boulders that kids will have a tough time staying away from. * Park Permit required (day passes can be purchased). 

If you are a parent and are worried that you kids may hurt themselves, let me just say that they can get hurt here, but unlike Horicon Ledge, there is no Ledge because they hiking at the bottom of the ravine as opposed to having free access to the top of the ledge. If I am wrong, please let me know.

High Cliff State Park - Sherwood

Sherwood,(Calumet Cty)

On the northeast shore of Lake Winnebago, this beautiful hunk of rock was once a working limestone quarry where Hungarian immigrants were housed during the excavations from 1895 to 1956. At the base of the hill (can't miss it) is the only standing building from that operation and tells the story of the miner and laborers and how they fared during this time period.

Apparently there is a 12 foot statue of Winnebago Indian Chief Red Bird. Right now I am racking my brain as to where it is located. I am thinking it is on the upper section by the ranger tower (it's not). On the DNR site, the statue has the power to give us pause to consider the past....(wait for it)... and the future. Was the statue Wisconsin's gift to the Ho-Chunks for allowing their Chief to die a common prisoner? History is strangely mute on the subject.

Wheretofind: Travel time from Oshkosh area is about 40-45 minutes from Hwy 41 North to Cty Hwy 10/114.  From Fond du Lac it's almost an hour from Hwy 55 North to Cty Hwy 114.  Entrance is at Pigeon Road.

What to expect: * Park Permit required (day passes can be purchased). Upper/Lower sections that have natural and paved trails (see map), ranger tower, camping and picnic areas, ruins of limestone kiln, Indian effigy mounds and letterboxing locations!. And there's cliffs.  On the lower section there is a General Store/museum that sell candy and ice cream. I seem to recall also an independently owned shop that sells concession type foods like hot dogs, burgers, ice cream and soda.  This is also on the lower area, nearby a small cemetery.  

Before I forget, there is non-profit organization called Friends of High Cliff whose members help support the park by fundraising events in order to pay for a year round naturalist to provide educational workshops and are responsible for the efforts in preserving it's history.

State Parks

I have a major blindspot for state parks, probably because I hate shelling out money for a park sticker that I may use maybe 1-2 times a year. That being said, there are state parks here that deserve acknowledgment and I would be remiss if I avoided posting those places.

Wisconsin Dells

(Adams Cty)

Who doesn't know about the Dells? Like State Parks, I avoid this place because of the traffic and the tourists... natural enemies of the hiker.

Many moons ago, when my kids were smaller I trekked there for an air balloon show. We left at 4 in the morning and when we arrived there found that it was canceled due to strong winds. We spent the day roaming the dells, splashing on the shores of a public playground, wandering the state park there ogling the does that approached cars expectantly, and picking up ticks along the way. I spent a total of $40 including gas and even went to a waterpark for a few hours.

It was a good day, despite the ticks.

US Nationals - Snow Sculpting Competition

Winterfest 2008, Lake Geneva (Walworth Cty)

This is last years winner. Don't have time to delve into this post...just wanted to share an interesting event in a place I really want to spend time visiting.

Wisconsin hosts a lot of World/National events...that makes us a pretty popular place..last year the World Disc Golf Tournament was at Whitecap. If you visit donniepick.com the photo was taken during this event. And of course Oshkosh has the EAA every year.

Horicon Ledge County Park - Horicon

Horicon/Mayville (Dodge Cty)

Photo credit: Horicon Chamber.

Also goes by Dodge Cty Ledge Park. Not a place for small kids. Wear good,sturdy shoes. The main link to trail map page) that run the edge where the Overlook is and winds around wooded camp area. The main attraction to this park are the trails that take you around and through the rocky outcroppings.

Wheretofind: Off of Highway 33 to Cty Rd TW North Travel time is a 1/2 hour east from Beaver Dam or west from West Bend.  N7403 Park Road, Horicon. There is an upper and lower section. Ranger station is located in the upper, which is also where the firewood can be purchased.

What to expect: Cliffs, ledges, mossy crags,slippery hills and rocks. This park is a popular campground, but one of the bennies to this park are the public picnic areas on the upper and lower levels that has its own firepit, one large, and 2-3 smaller sites and split wood for sale.  NOTE FIREWOOD BAN NOTICE.  This park is gated, ranger controlled and visitors not camping have to leave at closing (7pm?). I recommend calling first: (920) 387-5450.

Other Horicon related activities, here is the link for the Horicon Chamber of Commerce, showing Marsh Boat Tours/Canoe Rentals, their Aquatic Center, The HORICON WILDLIFE REFUGE, and the Horicon Marsh Education and Visitor Center.

Dodge County does offer some great parks that also has public firepits.  In fact, Dodge County has one of the best managed county park systems. 

Lake Geneva - Geneva Lake

The lake of Geneva is Geneva Lake.

This is where my wanderlust was awakened, and I would be remiss if I didn't note it somewhere. The 70's was the best time to be a kid. Early summer mornings would start when the front screen door slams and I was gone til suppertime, barefoot and pine sap in my hair. We lived in this summer home year round for four years. Rent back then was $150/mo. There was no basement and I know there was no furnace but a large unit that sat in our living room and a wood burning stove we put in ourselves. I really don't know how we didn't freeze to death in that home as a few of the chickens we raised had.

Heading down Linn Rd there is a small boat ramp, pier and grassy spots and one of the entrances to the Lake Path, such as the one I mentioned in cemeteries. Several years ago I took my kids down to show them where I used to live, and made it down to the lake path entrance and my oldest,then 14 would not go. He was worried about trespassing, and at the time I knew the lake path was well worn from use but did not know that the city owns a sidewalk-size strip around the lake until I looked it up after coming home. To be honest, trespassing is a moral grey area for me. I'd like to think that God and I have struck a bargain, but I really won't know until we meet I suppose.

Old Red Mill - Waupaca

Waupaca (Waupaca Cty)

I literally wandered into this place at 6 am in the morning many,many years ago while looking for a place to pee and directions to Twin Lakes Camp Ground for my son's Cub Scouts day camp.

Along the front you will find the entrance to the back and this is what I found, the most beautiful secret garden I had ever accidentally trespassed onto. It had led me to search for other secret gardens in Wisconsin but really have not found anything that had captured my fancy as The Old Red Mill.  In my opinion it is THE most romantic place, and typically it is not in my nature to find places romantic. Really.  Seriously.


Wheretofind:  Since the date of this original

post, the reconstruction of Highway 10 has been completed. Travel time from Oshkosh is about 45 minutes. It's almost the midway point between Oshkosh and Stevens Point, where my daughter is currently going to college.  FROM Highway 10, take the Cty K/Hwy 22 South Exit for approx 2 miles to the first set of lights. Turn left onto Cty K and follow the winding road just over a mile.  Just over a small bridge, the road will and the shop is at the curve, to your left.


What to expect: Covered bridge, Crystal River, occasional canoers (there is canoe launch right before the shop) gift shop with cafe, house cat, tiny chapel with pet cemetery. Beauty, splendor. 
Phone: 715-258-7385 
Hours: M-Sat 7a-pm, Sun 8a-5p.
For more information, visit their facebook page.