2023 Field Trips

Catch the birds as they sing their morning chorus. This walk will emphasize migratory and resident birds that rely on the coastal forests of Door County. TNC Conservation Ecologist Mike Grimm  will lead this hike in The Nature Conservancy’s Shivering Sands  Preserve. Suitable for ages 8 and up.

Friday, May 26, 8-11am

Rieboldt Creek is the outlet for Mud Lake and flows nearly two  miles as it meanders its way to Lake Michigan. Rich aquatic  diversity abounds and will be on display as paddlers experience  this Door County gem nestled within the Mud Lake State Natural  Area. We will enjoy a relaxing paddle up the creek and into  Mud Lake. You’ll glide through diverse beds of aquatic plants,  including bur-reed, coontail, wild rice, and maybe catch a  glimpse of the trout that use this stream as a spawning run.  Bring your binoculars — this site is excellent for viewing migrating  waterfowl and songbirds, alike. Easy paddle, bring your own  canoe/kayak, paddles and PFDs. You may also call Bay Shore  Outfitters to rent a kayak. *Length of trip may vary, based on  wind conditions.

Friday May 26, 9-10:30am

In 2018, Horseshoe Bay Farms, Inc., a 501(c)(3) non-profit, was established. Originally constructed between 1917-1919 on the beautiful shores of Green Bay in Egg Harbor, several barns and structures of this historic farm still stand today. Because of its prominence in the development of Door County, both in agricultural industry and as a civic landmark, it is listed on the National & State Register of Historic Places. Spend the morning with a guide walking the property, experiencing the iconic barns up close, and learning about its extensive history as well as its long-term vision. Suitable for ages 8 and up.

Friday May 26, 9-11am

“Be present in nature, and discover what nature has to present you.” Refresh your mind, body, and soul with a slow guided walk-in nature, accompanied by a certified nature and forest therapy guide. A standard sequence of invitations (activities that you choose to participate in or not), help awaken your senses, encourage you to slow down, be present, and connect with your surroundings. This is a 1 1/2 - 2-hour walk covering about 1-2 miles. Refreshments and conversation complete the walk. Doorway to Nature LLC is here to promote wellness, harmony, community, and environmental stewardship, by partnering with nature and connecting you with nature’s offerings. Suitable for ages 16 and up.

Friday, May 26 9-11am

Listen to the story of wetland restoration and management at this important Hine’s Emerald Dragonfly breeding site. We will discuss the ecology and hydrology of these alkaline headwaters of Peil Creek, and the importance of this site in the context of the surrounding landscape. We’ll also be on the lookout for wildlife and migratory and breeding birds that utilize this site. Suitable for ages 12 and up.

Friday, May 26, 9-11am

Hundreds of millions of years ago, Door County was covered by a shallow sea that was teeming with life. Evidence of these prehistoric creatures remains as fossils in the exposed rock beds. Join Dave Bultman, local fossil hunter and expert, as we identify various prehistoric critters and unearth local fossils. The program will start with a brief lecture and then we will carpool to Appel’s Bluff, just north of Baileys Harbor. Light hiking is involved, and no digging required! Suitable for ages 16 and up.

Friday, May 26, 9-11:30am

Learn about Traditional Ecological Knowledge of Three Sisters gardening with Kathleen Ratteree. This program will provide the foundation of knowledge of Three Sisters agriculture, as well as ideas for starting your own Three Sisters Garden. Suitable for ages 16 and up.

Friday, May 26, 9-11:30am

Explore the unique geology of this community treasure. In 2019, the Door County Land Trust assisted the Village of Sister Bay in acquiring this 16-acre nature preserve along the shore of Green Bay. According to state geologists, this site contains the best example of post-glacial shorelines in all Great Lakes. This property hosts a beautiful old growth white cedar forest, 600 feet of undeveloped shoreline, and a series of 13 post-glacial beach ridges. Discover the unique geology of this beach with geologist Thomas Stasiak. Hiking will be easy to moderate with some inclined terrain along the rocky beach and will cover approximately .5 mile. Sturdy shoes are recommended.

Friday, May 26, 9-11:30am

Here’s an opportunity to visit a privately-owned property, protected as a Door County Land Trust conservation easement not usually open to the public! The Miller property contains a variety of habitats and landscapes including dense cedar swamps and meadows. In addition to hiking the property, you’ll learn about the North Bay/Mud Lake area, its inclusion as a Ramsar property, and the Miller’s sustainable lifestyle. The terrain is relatively flat and hiking is easy to moderate, but some areas may be wet and muddy. Bring along waterproof footwear. Suitable for ages 12 and up.

Friday, May 26, 9-11:30am

Door County’s Lake Michigan coastal landscape comprises of a matrix of sand formations, dolomite bedrock outcroppings, and organic muck soil settings. This field trip will look at this landscape from a broad to fine scale in an effort to understand the development of these landforms and their effect on the various plant and animal assemblages that live there. Suitable for ages 8 and up.

Friday, May 26, 9-11:30am

Join us for a morning of exploring stream health and citizen science in Door County. This event will begin with a demonstration of stream monitoring protocols at a local stream, including macroinvertebrate collection and identification, habitat assessment, and taking water quality measurements. We’ll then visit other sites within the watershed to more broadly discuss the current state of Door County’s hydrology and the important role that citizen science has in the conservation of our natural resources. Suitable for ages 18 and up.

Friday May 26, 9-11:30am

Join scientific illustrator Kathleen Garness, for a two-part dive into the world of nature illustration. In the Friday morning

workshop, we will learn to draw plants of your choice at the Ridges, using graphite pencils. If weather permits, we will work along the trails, to observe, learn, share, and illustrate. No experience necessary - we want you to see plants with a fresh point of view! On Saturday we will explore the Sanctuary trails and have time to work in color if you feel comfortable doing so. You are welcome to bring your own supplies, but supplies will be provided for the duration of the class, with the handouts and artwork itself yours to take home. Participants are encouraged to participate in both workshops, however, you are welcome to participate in individual sessions. Suitable for ages 16 and up

Friday, May 26, 9am-12pm

Representatives of the Friends of Plum & Pilot Islands and the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service are your guides for this tour. Visit Plum Island and view the natural beauty of this part of the Green Bay National Wildlife Refuge. The hiking tour, along established trails, will focus on the natural and maritime history aspects of the island and its plant and animal communities, including a bald eagle nest site, a small wetland complex, and a multitude of migratory birds. The hike will be about 1 mile in length. Transportation by boat (Shoreline Charters) from Gills Rock is included in the cost of the trip. Suitable for ages 16 and up.

Friday, May 26, 9:30-11:30am

Take a look behind the scenes at Open Door Bird Sanctuary – the only facility of its kind in Door County! Besides the rare opportunity to see the ODBS raptors up close and personal in their sanctuary mews, this tour will also feature actual feeding of the raptors, a photo op with one of the sanctuary birds, and a guided trail hike highlighting the Sanctuary’s various ecosystems. ODBS is a nature center devoted to raptor and environmental education. Suitable for ages 8 and up.

Friday, May 26, 10am-12pm

Head out into the sparkling waters of Lake Michigan on “Ranger,” a retired U.S. Navy boat. Ranger was built tough to meet high military safety standards and skipped by knowledgeable and experienced captains so you can be assured of a safe trip. Ranger will navigate the rustic shoreline of Lake Michigan while the narrator/first mate will share stories of the near and distant past, of shipwrecks and lighthouses, ancient geology and current geography, and of changes to the local landscape, fauna and flora. This trip is designed to be an overview of this most beautiful and amazing peninsula! Suitable and encouraged for families with kids age 5 and above.

Friday, May 26, 10am-12pm

Join the Peninsula Park Superintendent, Eric Hyde, and Naturalist, Krista Lutzke, on a bike ride through Peninsula State Park. Learn about upcoming trail projects and habitat restoration projects. You’ll also learn about the different microhabitats along Sunset Trail as we traverse along the shore of Green Bay and the Niagara Escarpment. Bring your own bike. Suitable for ages 16 and up.

Friday, May 26, 12:30-3pm

The Baileys Harbor area includes six State Natural Areas that are part of the Door Coastal Wetlands, a Ramsar Wetland of International Importance. On this trip, you’ll be able to visit: Baileys Harbor Boreal Forest, Moonlight Bay Bedrock Beach, Mud Lake and North Bay. You’ll learn about the ecology of the coastal wetlands, and discover access points and little-known hiking trails. Highlights of the trip include rare and native plants, cedar forests, blooming Indian Paintbrushes and Dwarf Lake Iris. Easy hiking. Suitable for ages 16 and up.

Friday, May 26, 12:30-3pm

The spring wildflowers at Logan Creek are not to be missed! We will walk at a leisurely pace along the wildflower path taking our time to discover the hidden beauties and to ID those flowers we don’t know. After enjoying the wildflower display, we will hike the remainder of the Logan Creek trails which pass through various habitats on the way to Clark Lake and Logan Creek. The hike is a leisurely 2 miles. Sections of the trails are likely to be muddy. Wear shoes appropriate for hiking. Suitable for ages 16 and up.

Friday, May 26, 12:30-3pm

Explore the Toft Point State Natural Area and learn about the natural wildlife community as well as the Toft family history. This will be an easy hike on level terrain, however, the path has rocks and some tree roots, so sturdy hiking shoes and a walking stick may be needed. It is also suggested to wear long pants rather than shorts. If deer flies are out, you may also want to wear a hat. Suitable for ages 16 and up.

Friday, May 26, 1-3pm

The Mink River Estuary is a dynamic coastal wetland and forest landscape that provides habitat for a number of important

plants and animals including Great Lakes fish, many species of migratory and breeding birds, and mammals representative of Wisconsin’s mixed conifer hardwood forests. This 2.5-mile, moderate loop hike will meander through the upland and lowland forests surrounding the east side of the Mink River Estuary with brief views of the marsh and springs that feed the river. We’ll look for birds and learn about TNC’s work to protect and restore these forests. Suitable for ages 16 and up.

Friday, May 26, 1-4pm

With thousands of acres protected by the Door County Land Trust and The Nature Conservancy, North Bay State Natural Area is one of Door County’s ecological gems. Paddle along with us and we’ll explore it all from the water! Along the way, pending lake levels, we’ll visit the mouth of Three Springs Creek where it empties into North Bay and cross the bay to take a short hike into the towering white pines and sea caves of the Door County Land Trust’s Walt’s Woods Natural Area. North Bay’s stretch of largely undeveloped Lake Michigan shoreline is home to a host of bird species including; Bald Eagles, Osprey, Goldeneye Ducks, Sandhill Cranes, pelicans, Great Egrets, and Caspian Terns and its streams and bay are critical spawning areas for northern pike, white suckers and whitefish. All participants must provide their own 14’ or longer kayak with a spray skirt (no exceptions) and have previous open water kayaking experience. Tour will cover 4-5 miles. You can rent kayaks from Bayshore Outdoor Store in Sister Bay that meet these safety requirements. Suitable for ages 18 and up.

Friday, May 26, 1-4pm

Want to expand your ability to find and identify birds? Come and learn the “listen and look” approach. It’s easy. Jan is a life-long summer resident of Door County, an environmental educator, and author of Land Stewardship for Birds in Central Texas. Join her for a colorful PowerPoint presentation that includes at least 20 local species, listen to these birds, and learn the basics. For essential practice in the field, we invite you to follow this class with the Saturday morning Birding by Ear field trip at Bay Shore Bluff Lands. Suitable for ages 18 and up.

Friday, May 26, 1-4pm

Representatives of the Friends of Plum & Pilot Islands and the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service are your guides for this tour. Visit Plum Island and view the natural beauty of this part of the Green Bay National Wildlife Refuge. The hiking tour, along established trails, will focus on the natural and maritime history aspects of the island and its plant and animal communities, including a bald eagle nest site, a small wetland complex, and a multitude of migratory birds. The hike will be about 1 mile in length. Transportation by boat (Shoreline Charters) from Gills Rock is included in the cost of the trip. Suitable for ages 16 and up.

Friday, May 26, 1:30-3:30pm

Take a look behind the scenes at Open Door Bird Sanctuary – the only facility of its kind in Door County! Besides the rare opportunity to see the ODBS raptors up close and personal in their sanctuary mews, this tour will also feature actual feeding of the raptors, a photo op with one of the sanctuary birds, and a guided trail hike highlighting the Sanctuary’s various ecosystems. ODBS is a nature center devoted to raptor and environmental education. Suitable for ages 8 and up.

Friday, May 26, 1:30-4pm

We grow flowers mostly because they’re pretty, but they’re really all about reproduction. Learn about the different flower parts and their function and how you can use that knowledge to identify different plants. Suitable for ages 18 and up.

Friday, May 26, 1:30-4pm

Invasive species are one of the greatest threats to Door County’s biological diversity. On this hike through the Door County Land Trusts Oak Road Preserve, you’ll learn what invasive plants and animals are problematic to this managed landscape, and what tools practitioners use to replicate natural disturbances to sustain these prairies. This hike will cover prairie and invasive plant ID, tools homeowners can use to manage invasive populations and prairies, and gain an ecological insight to prairie ecology. This approximate 2-mile hike will include areas off-trail with uneven terrain and potentially lowland wet areas. Knee boots or waterproof hiking boots recommended. Suitable for ages 16 and up.

Friday, May 26, 1:30-4pm

The surface water is long gone from this Door County Land Trust preserve, but this beautiful area provides evidence of ancient glacial drainage paths for the Plum Bottom area south of Egg Harbor. Caves and enlarged rock crevices, coupled with springs that outlet below the escarpment, provide a great example of the classic sinkhole/spring complexes that are so prevalent throughout Door County. Descend the Niagara Escarpment and enjoy Door County’s seasonal wildflowers as well as intriguing discussion on glacial geology, karst features and challenges of protecting water quality in sensitive areas. Hiking boots are recommended, as we will face a stretch of moderately rocky terrain on the trip. Moderate hiking. Suitable for ages 16 and up.

Friday, May 26, 1:30-4pm

Climate change. We are each part of the problem. But what can we do about it? Actually, a lot. Let’s look at how bad our impactis. Let’s discuss and brainstorm all the things we can do about it, individually and collectively, including how we live at home, how we transport ourselves, and how we work and communicate the actions with our community. And let’s explore which climate mitigation and climate resiliency actions also have co-benefits related to ecosystem, community, and human health. This is a presentation and workshop with an optional trip to Boreal Preserve to discuss composting and tree-planting afterward. Suitable for ages 16 and up.

Friday, May 26, 2-4pm

We are excited to partner with Kinect M1 to offer Trackchair Open Houses. Come learn about an accessible way to access nature at The Ridges. Demo the all-terrain, motorized Trackchair to experience the Family Discovery Trail and learn about future opportunities to utilize the Trackchair at The Ridges.

Friday, May 26, 8-10pm

Travel on the Birdie Van to select roadside venues to capture nature’s sights and sounds of spring’s evening air. Dress for weather. The trip fee includes transportation. Easy walking. Suitable for ages 18 and up.

Saturday, May 27, 6:30-11:30am

Leave the driving to us, and ride in comfort in a late model, hot top, walk-in van for birders! We’ll visit birding hotspots like Lake Michigan’s beautiful shorelines, hardwood forests, open fields, and wetlands teeming with waterfowl. Themes for this tour include birding by habitats and bird song identification. All levels of birders welcome, short walks, multiple birding sites, walk-on boarding, and a comfortable ride! Trip fee includes transportation, birding guide(s), instruction, and use of spotting scopes. Easy walking. Suitable for ages 18 and up.

Saturday, May 27, 7-9am

Deb Ford is a lifelong birder with years of practice identifying birds by their sounds. Jan Wrede teaches the Festival of Nature’s Birding by Ear class. Join them at Door County Land Trust’s Bay Shore Bluff Lands Nature Preserve for a Birding by Ear field trip, which is especially designed as an outing to recognize birds in a new way. Enjoy early morning bird songs and calls. Enhance your listening skills, “un-wax” your ears, and practice. We’ll walk, listen, look, and identify birds in the beautiful old field and upland hardwood habitats common in Door County. Participation limited to beginning and intermediate birders. Suitable for ages 18 and up.

Saturday, May 27, 8:30am-12pm

Nature can be experienced through many different lenses. How do you translate it through the camera lens? Join Tom Turriff for a lesson on the basics of nature photography, and the ethics of photographing in natural, wild spaces. We will begin in the classroom at the Cook-Albert Fuller Nature Center, then travel to Logan Creek to put your knowledge to practice with an abundance of spring wildflowers to photograph. This program is suitable for beginning and intermediate photographers. 

Please review the following information before choosing to register for this program: 

Tom will be teaching techniques for this program specific to DSLR (or equilivent) cameras. Please plan to bring this type of camera with you. We also request bringing a quality, sturdy tripod for this program. If you have questions about the type of camera needed for this program, please contact us at katie@ridgessanctuary.org. 

Saturday, May 27, 9-11am

We are excited to partner with Kinect M1 to offer Trackchair Open Houses. Come learn about an accessible way to access nature at The Ridges. Demo the all-terrain, motorized Trackchair to experience the Ridges Beach and learn about future opportunities to utilize the Trackchair at The Ridges.

Saturday, May 27, 9-11:30am

Join us for a moderate walk through forests with a history of logging, retired farm fields and coastal marshes at the Door County Land Trust’s Three Springs Nature Preserve. You will learn why this critical habitat is part of one of the most highly ranked conservation corridors on the Great Lakes. Three Springs Nature Preserve is a parcel in a grand landscape that encompasses 17,000 acres along coastal Lake Michigan. Numerous cold-water springs meander through this property and give this 515-acre preserve its name. But more importantly, it provides critical habitat for a number of endangered and threatened species such as the Hine’s emerald dragonfly, dwarf lake iris and a summer maternity roost for hundreds of little brown bats. Three Springs Nature Preserve’s undeveloped stretch of Lake Michigan shoreline is home to uncommon birds, such as Bald Eagles, and its streams that empty into North Bay are critical spawning areas for fish species, including the locally famous whitefish. Suitable for ages 12 and up.

Saturday, May 27, 9-11:30am

The Ellison Bay Bluff County Park is known for its spectacular scenery. This unforgettable tour will start with geologic history, but once on the trails, the group will examine a plethora of spring wildflowers, such as white and pink trillium, and yellow lady slipper orchids, to make this an unforgettable trip. Moderate hiking. Suitable for ages 16 and up.

Saturday, May 27, 9-11:30am

Ever wonder why forests are so green? Snowshoe hares change color? Or why butterfly wings shimmer? For this trip we’ll start by reviewing some of the basic biology, evolution and adaptation of different species and physics of color production and vision, then head out to look for examples of the startling array of colors in nature. Suitable for ages 16 and up

Saturday May 27, 9am-12pm

Representatives of the Friends of Plum & Pilot Islands and the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service are your guides for this tour. Visit Plum Island and view the natural beauty of this part of the Green Bay National Wildlife Refuge. The hiking tour, along established trails, will focus on the natural and maritime history aspects of the island and its plant and animal communities, including a bald eagle nest site, a small wetland complex, and a multitude of migratory birds. The hike will be about 1 mile in length. Transportation by boat (Shoreline Charters) from Gills Rock is included in the cost of the trip. Suitable for ages 16 and up.

Saturday, May 27, 9am-12pm

Do you have trouble telling one conifer from another? Here’s a chance to learn to identify both our native and common nonnative conifers. We’ll begin in the cabin, learning important features of each conifer then head out on the Ridges Sanctuary trails to practice identifying various species. By the end of the hike, you will be able to distinguish black from white spruce, balsam from hemlock, red from white pine and more. The hike will be a leisurely two miles. Hand lenses will be supplied or bring your own. Wear shoes appropriate for hiking. Suitable for ages 16 and up.

Saturday, May 27, 10am-12pm

Join us for a late morning walk and talk to learn about the unique natural history of the Door County Land Trust Heins Creek Nature Preserve. Discover the succession of Native American tribes that lived here after the last glaciers melted. Hear stories from a family member of the early settlers who endured the hardships of a wilderness to make this their home. Hike the trail through open sand dunes and into the forest on your way to the creek. Listen to the relaxing sound of flowing water as you learn about the spawning season for trout and suckers. You might even spot a juvenile trout while you hear the fascinating story of how everything in the county flows together to make this preserve a perfect outdoor classroom. Wear good hiking shoes, bring a sun hat, water and bug repellent. Suitable for ages 12 and up.

Saturday, May 27, 10am-12pm

Head out into the sparkling waters of Lake Michigan on “Ranger,” a retired U.S. Navy boat. Ranger was built tough to meet high military safety standards and skipped by knowledgeable and experienced captains so you can be assured of a safe trip. Ranger will navigate the rustic shoreline of Lake Michigan while the narrator/first mate will share stories of the near and distant past, of shipwrecks and lighthouses, ancient geology and current geography, and of changes to the local landscape, fauna and flora. This trip is designed to be an overview of this most beautiful and amazing peninsula! Suitable and encouraged for families with kids age 5 and above

Saturday, May 27, 10:30am-12:30pm

Learn about the historic organic Waseda farm on an exploratory tractor & wagon ride. Formerly farmed by the Catholic Priests of the Sacred Heart, Waseda Farms is home to cattle grazing on more than 500 acres of beautiful perennial grass pastures in Baileys Harbor. The certified organic farm raises cattle, pigs, chickens and grows fruits, vegetables, and herbs in their 2-acre garden. Waseda Farms was the first in Wisconsin to implement a cattle handling system developed by world-renowned animal behavior expert Temple Grandin. Through improved farming practices that are better for people, animals, and the earth, Waseda Farms works to inspire better eating and better living. Suitable for ages 8 and up

Saturday, May 27, 1-2:30pm

Was Darwin the first to suggest species evolve? Did he actually explain the theory of evolution in his famous work Origin of Species? Does natural selection really make species the best they can be? Join us for answers that may surprise you as we cover some basics of evolutionary biology by exploring these and other questions. Finally, we’ll take a walk to identify hypothetical adaptations in nature and discuss how we might test our hypotheses. Suitable for ages 16 and up

Saturday, May 27, 1-4pm

Representatives of the Friends of Plum & Pilot Islands and the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service are your guides for this tour. Visit Plum Island and view the natural beauty of this part of the Green Bay National Wildlife Refuge. The hiking tour, along established trails, will focus on the natural and maritime history aspects of the island and its plant and animal communities, including a bald eagle nest site, a small wetland complex, and a multitude of migratory birds. The hike will be about 1 mile in length. Transportation by boat (Shoreline Charters) from Gills Rock is included in the cost of the trip. Suitable for ages 16 and up.

Saturday, May 27, 1:30-4pm

Not mosses. Not baby conifers. They’re fern allies! In this class you’ll learn what that means and how to identify 5 or 6 species of this ancient family. We’ll begin in the cabin, learning important features of these spore producing plants then head out on a leisurely 2-mile hike to find and identify the different species. We’ll end the class with a spore explosion. Expect to spend time on your hands and knees. Hand lenses will be supplied or bring your own. Wear shoes appropriate for hiking. Suitable for ages 16 and up.

Saturday, May 27, 1:30-3:30pm

Learn about the historic organic Waseda farm on an exploratory tractor & wagon ride. Formerly farmed by the Catholic Priests of the Sacred Heart, Waseda Farms is home to cattle grazing on more than 500 acres of beautiful perennial grass pastures in Baileys Harbor. The certified organic farm raises cattle, pigs, chickens and grows fruits, vegetables, and herbs in their 2-acre garden. Waseda Farms was the first in Wisconsin to implement a cattle handling system developed by world-renowned animal behavior expert Temple Grandin. Through improved farming practices that are better for people, animals, and the earth, Waseda Farms works to inspire better eating and better living. Suitable for ages 8 and up.

Saturday, May 27, 1:30-4pm

Have you ever wondered how birds use the Door Peninsula as they migrate through the Great Lakes region each year? Join us at The Ridges Sanctuary for an event where we’ll explore the migratory routes of several key species, discuss what makes a good stopover habitat, and witness a drone demonstration of a Motus tower. As time allows, we’ll hike down to the beach to see what species we can observe on Baileys Harbor. Suitable for ages 18 and up.

Saturday, May 27, 1:30-4pm

Fairy shrimp, salamanders and marsh marigolds! A rare chance to visit a private wetland gem protected by a Door County Land Trust Conservation Easement. Our hike will visit a stream, cross a 500-foot boardwalk through a large ephemeral wetland, and visit a sedge meadow and shrub-carr via boardwalk. We’ll look at the teeming life in the wetland with minnow traps, identify spring wildflowers in the woods, and discuss impacts of climate change on these systems. This moderate hike requires sturdy hiking shoes. Suitable for ages 16 and up.

Saturday, May 27, 1:30-4pm

Take a hike through the dunes to Europe Lake and the rocky headlands of Newport State Park in search of wildflowers and birds. You’ll also learn about the geology of this unique and fragile area. Bring binoculars. Some hills. Suitable for ages 16 and up.

Saturday, May 27, 1:30-4pm

Help answer this Research Question: How is climate change affecting plant phenology? By monitoring plants and recording their life-cycle, we can figure out how seasonal patterns are changing and make predictions for the future. What scientists don’t know is exactly how or where the cycles are changing — or how fast the changes are happening. Through Project BudBurst, citizen scientists are collecting valuable information about seasonal plant cycles in a consistent way across the country. We can use the data to learn more about the responsiveness of individual plant species to changes in climate locally, regionally, and nationally. By comparing the results to historical data, researchers can detect some of the long-term impacts of climate change. This program will introduce Project Budburst, including instructions on how to participate in helping to answer the Research Question. Suitable for ages 16 and up.

Saturday, May 27, 1:30-4pm

Join scientific illustrator Kathleen Garness, for a two-part dive into the world of nature illustration. In the Friday morning

workshop, we will learn to draw plants of your choice at the Ridges, using graphite pencils. If weather permits, we will work along the trails, to observe, learn, share, and illustrate. No experience necessary - we want you to see plants with a fresh point of view! On Saturday we will explore the Sanctuary trails and have time to work in color if you feel comfortable doing so. You are welcome to bring your own supplies, but supplies will be provided for the duration of the class, with the handouts and artwork itself yours to take home. Participants are encouraged to participate in both workshops, however, you are welcome to participate in individual sessions. Suitable for ages 16 and up.

Saturday, May 27, 6:30-8:30pm

Head out into the sparkling waters of Lake Michigan on “Ranger,” a retired U.S. Navy boat. Ranger was built tough to meet high military safety standards and skipped by knowledgeable and experienced captains so you can be assured of a safe trip. Ranger will navigate the rustic shoreline of Lake Michigan while the narrator/first mate will share stories of the near and distant past, of shipwrecks and lighthouses, ancient geology and current geography, and of changes to the local landscape, fauna and flora. This trip is designed to be an overview of this most beautiful and amazing peninsula! Suitable and encouraged for families with kids age 5 and above.

Saturday, May 27, 8-10pm

Bats and salamanders and frogs, oh my! Join Ridges staff on a nighttime adventure through the Sanctuary. Explore the Sanctuary trails in the dark, stopping to observe and learn about some of the unique nocturnal species that roam The Ridges at night. Flashlights will be provided. Suitable for ages 8 and up.

Sunday, May 28, 9-10:30am

Join Fish Creek Scenic Boat Tours and Ridges Sanctuary Naturalists for a narrated tour navigating the waters north along Peninsula State Park’s 7-mile shoreline. Learn about the Park’s cultural and natural history, including the story of the Niagara Escarpment. You’ll also cruise past the 145-year-old Eagle Bluff Lighthouse. Be sure to bring your camera! You won’t want to miss the activity of flora and fauna on this trip! Suitable for ages 12 and up.

Sunday, May 28, 9-11:30am

This field trip lifts up voices of those who came before us, especially early members of The Ridges Sanctuary. We will start inside a pioneer cabin on the Sanctuary’s original property, examining archival documents written by the likes of Jens Jensen, Phoebe Erickson, George Sieker, and Virginia Eiefert. After 30 minutes or so, we’ll walk Winter Wren Trail, sharing quotes from people who established The Ridges, discovering how they viewed this landscape and envisioned its future. Suitable for ages 16 and up.

Sunday, May 28, 9-11:30am

Experience your park with the Park Manager of Newport and Rock Island State Parks. Newport State Park’s wilderness features over 2,300 acres of protected forest, shoreline, sensitive ecosystems, and more. Explore the shoreline, traverse the evergreen and hardwood forests, dive into the history, and experience the park as you never have before. *Park vehicle admission stickers will be required for this field trip. Suitable for ages 12 and up.

Sunday, May 28, 9-11:30am

As you are enjoying a leisurely stroll along Hidden Brook boardwalk, you will observe many wonderful aspects of the natural world; white cedars, red squirrels, Labrador tea, and goofy looking white “trees” held together with black duct tape. These are the HOBOs of The Ridges! An explanation of these critters will be provided and the role that electronic monitors play in the overall Orchid Restoration program. An overview of orchid research at The Ridges Sanctuary will include a visit to research plots, explanation of the HOBOs and data collected, the goals and components of a restoration process, and a trip to the lab in an attempt to germinate orchid seeds. This experience will include a short hike down the boardwalk, brief slide presentation, and roll-up-the sleeves lab work. Suitable for ages 16 and up.

Sunday, May 28, 9am-12pm

Representatives of the Friends of Plum & Pilot Islands and the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service are your guides for this tour. Visit Plum Island and view the natural beauty of this part of the Green Bay National Wildlife Refuge. The hiking tour, along established trails, will focus on the natural and maritime history aspects of the island and its plant and animal communities, including a bald eagle nest site, a small wetland complex, and a multitude of migratory birds. The hike will be about 1 mile in length. Transportation by boat (Shoreline Charters) from Gills Rock is included in the cost of the trip. Suitable for ages 16 and up.

Sunday, May 28th 9-11:30am

This is a rare opportunity to explore one of the few remaining diverse lowland forest wetlands in the lower Door Peninsula. The landowner of this 400+ acre site is allowing tours of the property for another special year of exploration. Made up largely of hardwood and coniferous characteristics representative of both northern and southern parts of the state. This property is designated a Wetland Gem by the Wisconsin Wetlands Association. Suitable for ages 16 and up. 

Sunday, May 28, 10am-12pm

Head out into the sparkling waters of Lake Michigan on “Ranger,” a retired U.S. Navy boat. Ranger was built tough to meet high military safety standards and skipped by knowledgeable and experienced captains so you can be assured of a safe trip. Ranger will navigate the rustic shoreline of Lake Michigan while the narrator/first mate will share stories of the near and distant past, of shipwrecks and lighthouses, ancient geology and current geography, and of changes to the local landscape, fauna and flora. This trip is designed to be an overview of this most beautiful and amazing peninsula! Suitable and encouraged for families with kids age 5 and above.

Friday, June 2, 9-11:30am

Stroll through a boreal forest, explore the rock ledge shoreline, watch for warblers and eagles, explore a limestone cobble beach, and enjoy the beauty of the plants on this hike through the Toft Point State Natural Area. The hike is a leisurely 2 miles. Wear shoes appropriate for hiking. Bring binoculars or we can provide some. Suitable for ages 16 and up.

Friday, June 9, 9-11:30am

A mile of shoreline, ancient ledges, coniferous forest, a stave church - Bjorklunden has it all! We’ll hike along the water’s edge, explore the ledge formed 4,500 years ago by Lake Nippising, visit a wind turbine, and finish with a 30-minute tour of Boynton Chapel, a stave church built right on the property. Suitable for ages 16 and up.

Experience your park with the Park Manager of Newport and Rock Island State Parks. Rock Island State Park’s wilderness features over 900 acres of protected ecosystems. Explore miles of rustic trails, Pottawatomi Light House, pristine shoreline while on this adventure. During this tour we will dive into the rich history and experience the park as you never have before. We will explore the pristine beaches, traverse the beautiful mixed hardwood forest, and take in the views of northern Lake Michigan. 

PLEASE CLICK HERE TO REVIEW MORE INFOMRATION BEFORE REGISTERING FOR THIS FIELD TRIP

Saturday, June 10, 9am-12pm

Come and learn about the mosses and liverworts of The Ridges Sanctuary! We’ll walk the trails and boardwalks, learn to identify some common and uncommon species, and talk about their life history traits such as life cycles and ecological niches. Hike is a slow, 2+ mile walk. Expect to spend time on hands and knees. Hand lenses will be supplied or bring your own. Wear shoes appropriate for hiking. Suitable for ages 12 and up.

Sunday, June 11, 10am-12pm

Join several partners of the county-wide “Big Plant” project to discuss the goals of this annual effort that has been planting 10,000 trees in Door County each year. Explore at least one restoration site(s) as well as help with tree maintenance such as watering or staking/fencing and help analyze the survivorship of the trees that have been planted. (https://www. climatechangedoorcounty.com/door-county-big-plant). Suitable for all ages.

Friday, June 16, 9-11:30am

A mile of shoreline, ancient ledges, coniferous forest, a stave church - Bjorklunden has it all! We’ll hike along the water’s edge, explore the ledge formed 4,500 years ago by Lake Nippising, visit a wind turbine, and finish with a 30-minute tour of Boynton Chapel, a stave church built right on the property. Suitable for ages 16 and up.

Friday, June 16, 9-10:30am

In 2018, Horseshoe Bay Farms, Inc., a 501(c)(3) non-profit, was established. Originally constructed between 1917-1919 on the beautiful shores of Green Bay in Egg Harbor, several barns and structures of this historic farm still stand today. Because of its prominence in the development of Door County, both in agricultural industry and as a civic landmark, it is listed on the National & State Register of Historic Places. Spend the morning with a guide walking the property, experiencing the iconic barns up close, and learning about its extensive history as well as its long-term vision. Suitable for ages 8 and up.