WDNR Outdoor Report as of January 29, 2009
Although a few isolated areas of the north received 2 to 3 inches of new snow in the last week, it has been more than a week since most of the state received any more than a dusting of snow. A few scattered snow flurries were falling in southern Wisconsin Thursday, but there was an inch of accumulation expected at most. Despite the lack of snowfall, cold temperatures have allowed most of the snow that is on the ground to remain, with snow depths continuing to range from about a foot, or slightly less in some areas of the south, to about 20 inches in the north.
In general, snowmobile trails across the state are open and holding up quite well, though they are getting compacted and icy in some areas. Snowmobilers should slow down going into corners, where conditions are generally the worst. Cross-country ski trails have also held up very well, with most state parks and forests continuing to report trails in good to excellent condition. The biggest problem has been debris such as oak leaves and pine and fir cones on trails. A brief warm-up with the first temperatures above freezing in more than three weeks is forecast for this weekend, which should provide a good opportunity for a respite from cabin fever.
With the cold weather, ice thickness continues to increase and most lakes have 18 to 20 inches of ice. The sub-zero temperatures and windy conditions have kept ice fishing pressure down and reduced fish activity, with panfish success hasvingdropped off the most. Crappie Northern pike activity has also slowed as the increased ice thickness and snow cover seems to have lessened their feeding activity. The best success has come from walleye and action could be considered fair to good for this mid-winter time. The most productive bait continues to be sucker minnows, and the best success has come from the weed edges and mud flats in 6 to 10 feet of water.
Along Lake Michigan and Green Bay, some northern pike were being caught north of Oconto to the mouth of the Peshtigo River. Perch anglers were having some success at the mouth of the Oconto River. Along Door County, some limited success for perch was reported at Sturgeon Bay off Potawatomi State Park. Some walleye were biting at the Sturgeon Bay ship canal and off Larson’s reef. Whitefish were also being caught at various locations along the peninsula. On the Lake Winnebago system, anglers have had a lot of success jigging for white bass but action for walleye and perch has been slow. At this point, water clarity on the Lake Winnebago System is looking very good for the sturgeon spearing season that opens Feb. 14.
Ice fishing along southern Lake Michigan harbors has been relatively slow, but a few brown trout and northern pike have been caught. There is open water near the power plant in Port Washington, and aerators running in the north slip at the marina are keeping water open, with some open water anglers catching brown and a few rainbow trout
The Mississippi River stage was 7.8 feet at Prairie du Chien this week, with almost the entire main channel frozen over after the last cold snap. Fishing pressure and success also dropped off with the cold snap, but there was some spotty bluegill and crappie action reported.
A few northern shrikes have been showing up at bird feeders in the La Crosse area. Because they lack talons, shrikes use their powerful bills to stun or kill small birds while in flight. They also have the unique habit of impaling their prey on sharp objects such as thorns or barbed wire fences. Their predatory habits have earned this winter visitor the nickname "butcher bird."
Great horned owls are beginning courtship activities. Great horned owls begin nesting by taking over old hawk, crow or squirrel nests. Listen for the characteristic “whoo who who who whoooo” calls after dusk.
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A three-minute audio version of this report can be heard by calling (608) 266 2277.
A new report is put on the line each week.
DNR Northern Region
Superior DNR Service Center area
Brule River State Forest – The After Hours Cross-Country Ski Trail is in very good condition. Winds have caused some debris (pine needles, cones) to blow onto the trail system. Skate lanes a little hard packed but certainly skiable.
Ashland DNR Service Center area
Copper Falls State Park - As of Jan. 24, 15 inches of snow blanketed the landscape. Cross-country ski trails were last groomed and tracked on Jan. 22 and were in excellent condition with a 10 inch base. Ski trails at Copper Falls are groomed for classical skiing only and are very scenic. Park staff talked with several people this week that commented on the excellent conditions and beautiful sunsets as viewed from the ski trails. We are entering the time of year when the sun is back far enough north that a late afternoon ski can offer a spectacular fiery orange sunset. The ski trails at Copper Falls offer a true "Northwoods" experience. Hiking and pets are not allowed on ski trails within the park. Visitors are also reminded that the Cascades trail, the trail around Copper and Brownstone falls, is closed for the season for hiking as a portion of the trail is designated ski trail. For those wishing to hike, walk a pet, or snowshoe; the Red Granite Falls Trail remains open all season for those users. Pet owners are reminded that pets must be leashed at all times. Snowshoeing has been very popular on this trail.
Hayward DNR Service Center area
Tuscobia State Trail – The trail is being groomed for snowmobiling on a regular basis and has been in excellent condition.
Park Falls DNR Service Center area
Upper Chippewa Basin fisheries report (Price, Rusk, Sawyer Taylor and inland Ashland and Iron counties) - With the cold weather of the last week, ice thickness continues to increase and most lakes now have 18 to 20 inches of ice. There is about 4 to 6 inches of heavy, grainy snow on top and this has made vehicle travel rather tough in undisturbed areas. Most ice traffic is sticking to the packed-down roads as the frozen ruts and deep snow have still been getting some 4 WD vehicles stuck. The sub-zero temperatures and windy conditions have kept fishing pressure down on most lakes across the Northwoods in the past week. The cold weather seems to have reduced fish activity and panfish success has dropped off the most. Crappie anglers have been moving around from spot to spot and most have reported just scattered catches. Some perch and bluegill are still being caught suspend just off the bottom in deep water, but action has also been very sporadic. Northern pike activity has also slowed up in the last few weeks as the increased ice thickness and snow cover seems to have lessened their feeding activity. The best success has come from walleye and action could be considered fair to good for this mid-winter time. Success has been a little erratic with the frigid temperatures, but some decent catches have been made in the late afternoon hours just before dark. The most productive bait continues to be sucker minnows, and the best success has come from the weed edges and mud flats in 6 to 10 feet of water.
Woodruff DNR Service Center area
With the recent cold temperatures vehicular ice travel has increased. Coupled with the lack of snow, ice travel is not too right now. Caution should be exercised as there is still the possibility of slush pockets. Should you decide to venture out onto the lakes please use extreme caution. Walleye action is reported as fair with northern pike also being caught in fairly good numbers over heavy green weeds. The crappies were hanging in about 6 to 8 feet of water and associated with cabbage weeds. Bluegill action is reported to be on the rise and these fish are also being caught in the deep weed edges or associated with some structure. The more remote lakes are said to be the best sources for more abundant catches. Perch action has been slow. Snow conditions for both skiing and snowmobiling remain good with the little snowfall this past week. Please remember to stop and obtain snowmobile trail passes as necessary. Also remember the statewide night time speed limit of 55 for snowmobiles. Of special interest, the whitetail bucks have begun to shed their antlers. Some of these bucks could retain their antlers until into March.
Northern Highland-American Legion State Forest – All cross-country ski trails have been groomed and are in good to very good condition. There is 20 inches of snow in the woods. Escanaba had all loops cut and tracked Jan. 23. Raven yellow, green and blue loops were cut twice and tracked Jan 27. A full track set up firm. Madeline had all loops tracked Jan. 24. The McNaughton skater's loop was groomed and all other loops cut and tracked Jan. 23, with a full track that set firm.
DNR Northeastern Region
Peshtigo DNR Service Center area
Marinette County - Temperatures during the week moderated into the mid 20s, with little wind. Perfect conditions for the ice anglers and snowmobile enthusiast. By the weekend the bitter cold had returned along with brisk winds which made fishing without a shack almost unbearable. Some northern pike were being caught in the flats from north of Oconto Park II to the mouth of the Peshtigo River. Shiners were the bait of choice. There will be a fisheree on the Caldron Falls Flowage Saturday, Jan. 31. Snowmobilers and ATV enthusiasts will compete in a radar run. Temperatures are predicted to be near 30 during the day and in the teens above zero for the evening. Turkeys are flocked up near protected areas and water access. Many furbearers will begin mating activities soon including fox, wolves, coyote and squirrels. In a few weeks the cardinal will begin their spring song.
Oconto County - Geano Beach has anglers both in close and out by the shove fishing both perch and northern pike. Oconto Breakwater Harbor has both pike and perch anglers. The perch anglers range from the marina area to just past the mouth of the Oconto River. The pike anglers are on the flats north of the river mouth.
Sturgeon Bay DNR Service Center area
Door County – At Sturgeon Bay, Most anglers fishing off Potawatomi State Park have been reporting limited success on perch in 10 to 20 feet of water. The perch that were being landed were taking rose reds or wax worms. Northern pike were the main draw for most anglers, with a few nicer fish being caught. Walleye continued to bite on Larson’s reef with oddball jigs tipped with a minnow working the best. People were also reporting whitefish mixed in with the walleye. The whitefish were taking jigs tipped with minnows or waxworks. Walleye were also being caught in the ship channel in Sturgeon bay. Riley’s Bay has produced a few fish over the last week with perch and whitefish being landed in 20 to 30 feet of water. Even with a few fish being caught, most anglers were fishing all day for few fish. The perch action was still very slow at Little Sturgeon Bay, with most people catching five or so keepers every time out. Whitefish seem to be the main draw still with most people fishing at Henderson's. The whitefish were take jigs tipped with a minnow or wax worm. At Dyksville, anglers were having limited successes with the perch. The perch that were being iced were coming in 20 to 30 feet of water. Most anglers were jigging and setting tip-ups for the perch. Minnows and waxworms seemed to be drawing the most fish. Whitefish were being caught in 10 to 15 feet of water. Most anglers were using minnow heads to catch them
Peninsula State Park – There is approximately 15 inches of snow on the ground. Cross-country ski trails are groomed and in very good condition. The sledding hill is open. Snowmobile trails are open. Five miles of marked snowshoe trails are available for hiking or snowshoeing.
Potawatomi State Park –Cross-country ski trails were groomed Jan. 28 and were in good condition. Snowmobile trails are in very good condition after being groomed this week by the Door Drifters Snowmobile Club. Anglers report slow perch activity in Sawyer Harbor. Whitefish and northern were being caught in Sturgeon Bay and along the southern Door shoreline of Green Bay.
Wautoma DNR Service Center area
Beaver, squirrels and great horned owls should be mating by now. Deer are quite bunched up now because of deep snow and cold temps and are not traveling very far from food sources. Lake Poygan anglers were still having success catching northern pike. Snowmobile trails are in good condition. On Jan. 31, people can head out to the Hancock Lions' Fisheree from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Hancock Lake. There will be tournaments, food, beverages, games and raffles.
Oshkosh DNR Service Center area
Anglers have had a lot of success jigging for white bass. The walleye and perch catch has been pretty slow. Horseshoe hole on Lake Poygan has been the only reported hot spot for walleye activity. Ice depth is 20-24 inches. Anglers not familiar with Lake Winnebago should stay on well traveled areas of ice due to large cracks that are hard to see. Sturgeon spearing on Lake Winnebago and the Upriver Lakes will open at 6:30 a.m. on Saturday, Feb. 14. Ice holes may be cut anytime within 48 hours of the opening of the season. Water clarity on the Lake Winnebago System is looking very good. From High Cliff to Oshkosh visibility is clear to the bottom in most locations that were tested. Brothertown, Quinney and Stockbridge had clarity up to 16 feet in water depths of around 18 feet. Sturgeon spearers can to listen to daily harvest counts by calling the Lake Winnebago Sturgeon Hotline number 920-303-5444. Winnebago and Fond du Lac County snowmobile trails are open and in fair condition at this time.
DNR Southeast Region
Kettle Moraine State Forest –Lapham Peak Unit – As of Jan. 28, it has been 11 days without new snow and the lower trails are starting to show a bit of wear. There are a few thin areas starting to show on the lower lighted loop, and the plan is to haul out some man-made snow Wednesday or Thursday to those spots. While the lighted lower trails are in generally good condition, the upper trails are in better shape. Crews did a quick groom of the lower loop before the Wednesday night ski races. Ski rentals are now available at the park daily from 5 to 9 p.m. and on Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Sundays 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. The ski trail lights are lit until 10 p.m. nightly, except Sundays.
Kettle Moraine State Forest – Southern Unit - The current plan is to completely re-groom all trail systems at the Southern Unit on Friday, Jan. 30. Skiing conditions as of Jan. 28 continued to be good and should be very good for the weekend. This weekend is a "Quiet Weekend" at the McMiller Sports Center. This provides an opportunity for skiers to enjoy the great trail system at McMiller without the background sounds of the shooting ranges. The Biathlon course and range is open for use on Quiet Weekends.
Kettle Moraine State Forest - Northern Unit - As of Jan. 26, cross-country ski trails were in good to excellent condition. A dusting of snow Tuesday night did wonders for the trails, especially in the striding track where debris was considerably less than two days earlier. Only part where debris was a problem was under the denser pines, but track was excellent and skating lane looked pristine. Greenbush skate lanes and classical tracks are groomed on a regular basis by the Northern Kettle Moraine Nordic Ski Club volunteers. Zillmer Trails skating lanes were touched up and the classical track reset on Jan. 23. The snowmobile trails are currently open; however, conditions are generally rated as fair to good. Because of the drifting snow, some sections of trail have little snow cover with some segments reporting some bare spots. For more information call the snowmobile trail hot line for Sheboygan County and the State Forest at (920) 892-7455.
Kettle Moraine State Forest - Pike Lake Unit - Cross-country skating lane was groomed Jan. 23 and was in excellent condition. The existing classical track was left and was in very good condition. Call (262) 670-3400 for the most current trail conditions. As a reminder, the only groomed trail that hikers, snowshoers, and dog walkers are allowed on is the red trail, south of the beach area.
Lake Michigan fisheries team report
Sheboygan County - Ice fishing in the Sheboygan marina has been relatively slow, but a few brown trout and northern pike have been caught on shiners.
Ozaukee County - In Port Washington ice anglers in the marina have been catching a few brown trout on spawn sacs. There is open water near the power plant, and aerators are running in the north slip. Open water fishing in Port has been hit-or-miss, but decent numbers of browns and a few rainbows have occasionally been hitting spawn near the power plant discharge.
Milwaukee County - In Milwaukee, the river under the Hoan bridge is unfishable due to large ice floes, but there is open water in the Menomonee River near the post office. Anglers there have been catching browns and northerns on shiners. McKinley Marina is frozen over, and although fishing has been slow overall, occasional browns have been taken while jigging through the ice or on spawn under a tip up.
Racine County - In Racine upstream portions of the Root River remain frozen over. Ice anglers have been out in downstream stretches of the river, as well as in the Racine harbor. Some browns and northerns have been hitting both shiners and spawn, and water clarity is generally good in the area.
Kenosha County - The Small Boat Harbor in Kenosha is frozen over, and ice anglers have been catching a few brown trout on tube jigs or spawn.
Inland fisheries team report
DNR South Central Region
Dodgeville DNR Service Center area
Nelson Dewey State Park - As of Jan. 26, winter has set in along the Mississippi River Valley. The backwaters have iced over and snow covers the ground. No trails are groomed for cross-country skiing at Nelson Dewey State Park, but visitors are welcome to hike or snowshoe. Eagles have arrived for their winter stay along the river. Nelson Dewey State Park is an excellent place to view eagles throughout the winter.
Wyalusing State Park - All trails are snow covered, with approximately 8 to 12 inches of snow. The forecast for this weekend has temperatures reaching in the upper 20’s into the low 30’s with sunny skies. This weekend should be a perfect time to ward off cabin fever with a winter hike or to do some cross country skiing or snowshoeing. Cross country ski trails should be in good condition for the weekend. Colder temperatures again this week affected number of ice anglers this week at the boat landing. Weekend ice fishing activity remains high. Recent bird sightings this week include: gold finches, purple finches, chickadees, nuthatches, juncos, tufted titmice, blue jays, cardinals, mourning doves, tree sparrows, downy woodpeckers, hairy woodpeckers and red-bellied woodpeckers. This week the purple finches outnumber the gold finches. Bald eagles are frequently seen in the park and surrounding area. Small areas of open water near St. Feriole Island in Prairie du Chien provide excellent eagle viewing opportunities. Great horned owls are beginning courtship activities. Great horned owls begin nesting by taking over old hawk, crow or squirrel nests. Listen for the characteristic “whoo who who who whoooo” calls after dusk. The mating season has begun for red fox, wolves, beaver and fox and gray squirrels.
Fitchburg DNR Service Center area
Lake Kegonsa State Park - Cross-country ski trails were last groomed and tracked Jan. 23 and were in good condition. Hiking, snowshoeing and pets are prohibited on all designated ski trails.
Governor Nelson State Park - All cross-country ski trails have been groomed and track as of Jan. 27. Trail conditions are good to excellent except for the Oak Savanna Trail which parallels Hwy. M; this section has a few grassy spots on the hill tops.
Mirror Lake State Park - All cross-country ski trails were in good condition as of Jan. 29, with an 8- to 12-inch base. With recent high winds over the last few days skiers can expect some leaf litter/pine needles on the trail. The next candle light ski/hike will be held on Saturday Feb. 7 from 6 to 8 p.m.
DNR West Central Region
"400" State Trail - As of Jan. 27, the trail is in fair to good condition for snowmobiling. Snowmobilers may use the trail when snowmobile trails are open in Sauk and Juneau Counties. For the most up-to-date trail conditions, call the Sauk County Parks and Recreation Department, (608) 546-5011, or Juneau County Trails Hotline, (608)-562-5737.
Elroy-Sparta State Trail - As of Jan. 27, the trail is in good condition for snowmobiling. Snowmobiling is allowed whenever the Monroe and Juneau county snowmobile trails are open. For the most up-to-date snowmobile trail conditions call the Monroe County Snowmobile Coordinator, (608) 269-3375, or Juneau County trails hotline (608) 562-3737.
La Crosse River State Trail - As of Jan. 27, the trail is in good condition for snowmobiling. Snowmobiling is allowed when snowmobile trails are open in La Crosse and Monroe counties. For the most up-to-date snowmobile trail conditions for La Cross County, call (608) 782-4500 ext. 1083; for Monroe County call (608) 269-3375.
Baldwin DNR Service Center area
Willow River State Park – Cross-country ski conditions are excellent for skating and good for classic, with a few washed out areas. Most of the lower trails were re-groomed Jan 27. The classic tracks are still holding up fairly well with only a few shallow or washed out spots. Lots of leaf and twig debris in the tracks, however.
La Crosse DNR Service Center area
Tree sparrows, juncos, cardinals, chickadees, woodpeckers, horned larks, nuthatches, blue jays, and tufted titmice are the majority of songbirds currently active in the area. A few northern shrikes have been showing up at local bird feeders. The increased winter activity around bird feeders is very attractive to shrikes. Because they lack talons, shrikes use their powerful bills to stun or kill small birds while in flight. They also have the unique habit of impaling their prey on sharp objects such as thorns or barbed wire fences. Their predatory habits have earned this winter visitor the nickname "butcher bird." This is the time of year to watch for migrants from further north that usually do not reach Wisconsin. Cold, snowy winters like this one seem to increase their numbers. There are also distinctive, arctic breeding birds like snow buntings that show up every year. Snow buntings seem to almost always occur in groups of 10 or more. They look almost completely white from below and so are usually fairly easy to identify.
Crawford County - As of Jan. 26, snowmobile trails in Crawford County were still open. Non-resident snowmobile trail passes are now available at the Holiday Gas Station in Prairie du Chien. The Crawford County clerk’s Office also has them for sale. The snowmobile trails are groomed, for the most part, and in pretty good shape. A few bumpy and bare areas exist. The Mississippi River stage was at 7.83 feet. Last week the river slowly rose a couple tenths of an inch. Only daily water level readings are available throughout the winter, so no forecast is available. Another cold snap entered the picture last week, and 95-plus percent of the main channel is frozen over. All the back waters of both the Mississippi and Wisconsin rivers were also frozen over. Generally speaking the ice conditions are in pretty good shape with a few exceptions. Most of the back water areas with no current flowing through them have around 18 or more inches of ice. Sloughs with current flowing under the ice vary in thickness and can change daily. Caution must we used while traveling on the ice and safety precautions should be taken. Ice fishing wasn’t very good this week. Fishing pressure on Sturgeon Slough declined because action slowed there. It was producing some decent bluegill and crappie but again this past week was slow. Ice conditions there are pretty good. McGregor Lake (aka Sturgeon or Horseshoe) has been very quite too. A few more anglers have ventured out there and report slow action. Cold Spring’s ice conditions improved this week but caution is advised around the boat landing. Most anglers were still accessing Cold Spring from the southern lobe at the handicap access site. Some anglers are now starting to walk in from the boat landing and crossing the creek near the rail road bridge. Again, caution is advised in the area near the rail road bridge. Bluegill and crappie action at Cold Spring has been spotty to very slow and most anglers are targeting the south lobe’s east shore line and northern end. A reminder to all anglers fishing at Cold Spring. Cold Spring is considered inland water, not boundary waters. Different fishing regulations are in effect there and non-residents must possess a non-resident fishing license. The Ambro Slough was unusually quiet this week. Anglers are crossing over the Ambro Slough from the DNR boat landing. The USFWS boat landing on North Ambro Road is still very dangerous because Mill Coulee Creek enters there and open water or very thin ice exists. This area should be avoided. Mud Slough and Tilmont Lake have been very slow. Like last week, not many anglers were fishing there. Some anglers were fishing on the Ambro Slough and No-Name Slough across from Ambro Road. There has been some spotty bluegill and crappie action reported there. Anglers have been avoiding Gremore Lake because it too has been very slow. The “bottom end” of Gremore Lake near the Ambro Slough/Big Lake area anglers had been finding some decent bluegill and crappie action, but this week it was very spotty. Fish Lake and Little Missouri have been pretty slow this week. Many anglers are venturing up to Big Missouri and the Upper Doubles. Big Missouri has been producing decent sized bluegill and crappie. The Upper Doubles has produces lots of bluegill, but the size of most of the fish caught have been on the small size. Those using ATVs or other vehicles to travel on the ice are reminded that USFWS law prohibits operation on any shoreline, island, or upland area within the Refuge boundary. The Fennimore cut has shown improvement. Some decent crappie and bluegill have been taken there but action was spotty. Spring Lake was slow this week. Generally speaking ice fishing action on the Ambro Slough complex was slow and ice conditions are pretty good. Sauger have been biting below the Lynxville dam. A variety of baits have produced fish to include jigging Rapalas, One-Eyes, and lead head jigs tipped with minnow. Some decent walleyes have been taken there too. There isn’t much ice below the dam and that ice changes daily due to the heavy current. Fishing below the dam is extremely dangerous especially near the center of the channel where only an inch or so of ice exists. Coyote and rabbit hunters are finding fair hunting conditions. Drifted snow makes hunting difficult. Rabbits have found ample hiding places under snow filled tree tops. Avid coyote hunters are finding plenty of hunting opportunities this time of year. Rabbit and squirrel hunters are also doing well on warmer days as those critters are more active. Bald eagles have dispersed from the Mississippi River after another cold front froze much of the remaining open water. The flock of bald eagles that had been hanging around the Tourist Information Center on Highway 18 have moved elsewhere. A few eagles have been hanging around the open water of St. Feriole Slough. Song birds like chickadees, juncos, goldfinches, and several species of wood peckers are actively feeding at bird feeders.
Eau Claire DNR Service Center area
Brunet Island State Park - The cross-country ski trails are groomed and in very good condition. The trails are quite firm, providing moderate to fast conditions. Snowshoe conditions on the island trails are excellent. Fishing action in the north campground bays has been good with crappies and a few small bluegills being caught. Anglers are reporting generally good ice conditions in the backwater areas. The park does not monitor ice conditions. The Cornell flowage water levels fluctuate throughout the year and we urge caution when venturing onto the ice. Vehicle passes are required year round. Species of birds seen or heard include: bald eagles, goldfinches, ravens, crows, phoebes, northern juncos, chickadees, nuthatches, red headed and pileated woodpeckers, great horned and barred owls, and blue jays.
Wisconsin Rapids DNR Service Center area
Buckhorn State Park - Cross-country ski trails are still in good condition and were last groomed/tracked on Saturday, Jan. 17. There are many deer, turkey and other animal tracks all over the ski trails. Remember, snowshoers, pets and hikers must stay off the groomed portion of trails. There have been a few winter campers so far this winter. Many people ice fishing are accessing the lake from the launch in the park. Several roads are now closed to vehicles as the snowmobile route goes through the park. Applications for the handicapped accessible cabin can be mailed, faxed or dropped off at the park. There are openings in May, a few nights in June-August, and days in Sept and Oct. Please call the park at 608-565-2789 for more information. Applications and a calendar of open dates are also available online on the DNR website. Applications for the 2009 Youth Deer Hunt are available now from the park or online. Small game and trapping are allowed in the Yellow River Wildlife Area and in Buckhorn Wildlife Area only, not in the park.
Roche-A-Cri State Park - The main gate is now closed. Parking is allowed in the Czech Ave lot. A volunteer is plowing the parking lot and grooming the cross country ski trails. The new pit toilet building at the parking lot is also being cleaned by a volunteer. Please thank them if you see them! Park stickers are required for parking in the winter lot. Please fill out a self-registration envelope. If you pay for an annual sticker it will be mailed to you. Camping is now closed for the season. Winter is a great time to take photos for the annual photo contest.
UPCOMING EVENTS AT STATE PARKS, FORESTS, AND TRAILS
WATCHABLE WILDLIFE OPPORTUNITIES AND INTERPRETIVE PROGRAMS
Check with the park or forest of your choice for additional activities and special events not listed. Most events are free of charge; park admission sticker required unless otherwise noted. Events and times subject to change.
Friday, January 30, 2009
• Willow River State Park, Hudson, (715) 386-5931 or e-mail - Candlelight Ski and Hike. Ski 2 miles of candlelit trail or hike half a mile on the lighted Hidden Ponds Nature Trail. Refreshments will be available at the Nature Center, a bonfire will be at the boat launch, and hot air balloons are expected for a moon glow in the beach area. Events begin at the Nature Center. This event is weather dependant, please call ahead. 6-9:30 p.m.
Saturday, January 31, 2009
• Havenwoods State Forest, Milwaukee, (414) 527-0232 or e-mail - Adult Program: Leopold Bench Workshop. Spend the morning making a Leopold bench (28 inches tall and 51inches long) and learning about Aldo Leopold's conservation philosophies. The design is taken from a bench which still leans against Leopold's shack more than 50 years after his death. The class size is limited. Please register and pay by January 16. 10 a.m. - noon. No admission sticker required.
• Interstate State Park, St. Croix Falls, (715) 483-3747 - Guided Snowshoe Hike. Never been on snowshoes? Would you like to give it try? Or has it been a long time? Don’t have snowshoes of your own? Take advantage of an opportunity use snowshoes free of charge at beautiful Interstate State Park. Snowshoes are available for participants 6 years of age or older, but a Wisconsin State park sticker is required to enter the park. Meet at the Ice Age Center for a brief introduction to basic snowshoeing skills before exploring Interstate’s winter wonderland with Naturalist Julie Fox as your guide. 1:30 p.m.
• Richard Bong State Recreation Area, Kansasville, (262) 878-5600 - Tracking 101. Join us as we hike the trails in search of animal tracks, homes and other signs. Discover what the park’s animals have been up to this winter! Visitor Center. 10-11 a.m.
Sunday, February 1, 2009
• Brule River State Forest, Brule, (715) 372-5678. Free Cross-country Ski Lessons. Free lessons for both children and adults in both the classic and skate styles will be offered at the After Hours Ski Trail. Children must be registered by a parent or guardian, and children eight and under should be accompanied by an adult. Youth groups, such as scouts and 4-H, may participate by pre-registering. No memberships or trail passes are required. Ski lessons start at the trailhead at 12:45 p.m. Sponsored by the Brule Valley Ski Club, the Brule River State Forest, and the Brule Lions Club. The After Hours trailhead and parking lot are just south of Highway 2 on After Hours Road.
• Yellowstone Lake State Park , Blanchardville, (608) 965-3639 or (608) 523-1543 - Fisharee. Youth Ice Fishing Seminar 1 p.m. (poles furnished; prizes donated by 4 Seasons Resort). Spudding Contest (4 types) 1:30 p.m. BB Gun Shoot (3 classes) starting at 9 a.m. Venison Tasting Competition. Prizes for largest fish--entries must be turned in by 2:30 p.m. Raffle. Open house day at the park--vehicle admission sticker not required. Snow date Sunday, February 8. Sponsored by Sportsmen’s Clubs of Lafayette County.
Thursday, February 5, 2009
• Interstate State Park, St. Croix Falls, (715) 483-3747 or e-mail - Nature Storytime. Naturalist Julie Fox will share a story and activity with preschoolers and their parents at the Ice Age Center. A short activity following the story will reinforce the story's nature-related theme. Nature Storytime will generally last between 30-45 minutes, depending on the participants. Participants will spend time indoors and outdoors, weather permitting, so parents should dress their children accordingly.10 a.m.
Friday, February 6, 2009
• Chippewa Moraine Ice Age State Recreation Area, New Auburn, (715) 967-2800. Snowshoeing By Moonlight. Join Naturalist Rod Gont on 1 hour (2 hour option available) night time snowshoe hikes by moon light, starting at the Chippewa Moraine Ice Age Visitor Center. Forty-plus pairs of snowshoes for all ages are available for those without them (please call ahead to reserve, no charge-donation accepted). Visitor Center will be open and we’ll have a fire going in the fireplace. Cocoa and hot water will be available (but bring your own tea, soup, cups, etc.). Two outside fires for sitting by, roasting hot dogs (bring your own), making s'mores, etc. A program about snowshoes will be presented at 6:30 p.m. hikes begin at 7 p.m.
• Kettle Moraine State Forest--Northern Unit, Campbellsport, (920) 533-8322 or e-mail - Nature Storytime: Pretty Red Cardinals. Cardinals are a splash of color in the white of winter. We'll investigate the world of the cardinals to find out how they are adapted to survive winter's hardships. This hour of nature fun awaits 3- to 6-year-olds with accompanying adults. Ice Age Visitor Center. 9:30-10:30 a.m.
Saturday, February 7, 2009
• Black River State Forest, Black R. Falls, (715) 284-4103 - Candlelight Ski. There will be a 1.5-mile lit trail starting from the warming cabin at the Smrekar parking lot. A bonfire, raffle for several prizes, hot dogs, hot chocolate, and other beverages will be available. Smrekar parking lot, 4 miles east of Millston on County Highway O and north .5 mile on Smrekar Road. 6-9 p.m.
• Blue Mound State Park, Blue Mounds, (608) 437-5711 or e-mail - Candlelight Ski/Hike/Snowshoe. Ski the John Minix or Willow Springs trails or take the snowshoe/hiking trail that meanders a maple forest. Enjoy a fire at the warming shelter. Roast marshmallows and have hot chocolate while supporting the Friends of Blue Mound. Sponsored by Friends of Blue Mound State Park. The candlelight events will start at the trailhead in the pool parking lot. 6-9 p.m.
• Brule River State Forest, Brule, (715) 372-5678. Winter woods Snowshoe Hike - Grab your snowshoes and gather at the Historic Bayfield trail for a guided hike through the winter woods. Walk with the Forest Educator and discover how the many plants and animals make it through the Northwood’s winters. Remember to dress for the weather. You will also need a water bottle and your snowshoes. Historic Bayfield Tail is 3 miles north of highway 2 on Clevedon Road west of the town of Brule. 10 a.m. Candlelight Ski. Afterhours Ski Trail. Two miles cross-country ski trails will be lit by candles and moonlight. After skiing come sit around the warm bonfire and have some hot cocoa or cider and that will be provided in the warming house. A grill will be also be provided for cooking whatever you would like to bring. Trail passes not required for this event, which is sponsored by the Brule River State Forest with volunteer assistance from the Brule Valley Ski Club. 5-9 p.m.
• Flambeau River State Forest, Winter, (715) 332-5271 - 17th Annual Candlelight Ski Starting at 5 p.m. that Saturday all day-use fees at the trailhead will be waived. The Flambeau Hills trail head is located on County Highway “W” 20 miles west of Phillips and 15 miles east of Winter. A 1.8 kilometer loop of trail will be groomed, tracked and lit with over 600 candles. The trail is for skiers or hikers and winds through the heart of the forest. The trail is wide enough for diagonal striders and skate skiers. Picnic tables and a large barbecue grill will be available near the trail head for persons who wish to cook their food. Large warming fires will also be built and maintained throughout the night. 6-9 p.m.
• Harrington Beach State Park, Belgium, (262) 285-3015 or e-mail - Candlelight Ski/Hike. A candlelight ski/hike through the woods and around Quarry Lake. Refreshments served by the Friends of Harrington Beach State Park. Sponsored by Friends of Harrington Beach and Northern Cross Science Foundation. Trail head at Adolph and Marie Ansay Welcome Center. 6-9 p.m.
• Havenwoods State Forest , Milwaukee, (414) 527-0232 or e-mail - Family Hike: Shh! Listen. During our hike, we'll listen for the sounds of nature--wind through the trees, the crunch of our feet through the snow, even the rustle of the dried grass. It's amazing what we can discover if we are quiet and we listen. New in 2009! Spend an hour on a family-friendly hike through Havenwoods. We'll use magnifiers, binoculars, and super-duper outdoor lookers to spend the morning in nature. 10:30-11:30 a.m. No admission sticker required.
• High Cliff State Park, Sherwood, (920) 989-1106 or e-mail - Candlelight Ski/Hike. Bring on the snow! The Forest Management trail is torch-lit for skiers and hikers alike. Stop by the bonfire to warm up along the trail and visit the Friends of High Cliff concessions booth for some hot beverages and snacks. Forest Management Trailhead. 5 - 8 p.m.
• Kettle Moraine State Forest--Northern Unit , Campbellsport, (262) 626-2116 or (920) 533-8322 or e-mail - Candlelight Ski/Hike. Cross-country ski or hike in the Kettle Moraine State Forest-Northern Unit by candlelight. At the bonfire join fellow hikers and skiers for hot drinks and snacks provided by the Friends of the Kettle Moraine. The trail is perfect for novice skiers with no steep hills or sharp turns. Sponsored by Friends of the Kettle Moraine. Zillmer Trail Area. 5:30-8:30 p.m.
• Lakeshore State Park, Milwaukee, (414) 274-4281 - Winter Activity Day. Meet the park staff, snowshoe and cross-country ski at Lakeshore State Park. Complimentry refreshments are available. Snowshoes are available at no charge. Skis/boots can be rented for $25. Children's sizes are available. Meet at the north end of the park or in the Discovery World lobby. 1-4:30 p.m.
• Lake Wissota State Park, Chippewa Falls, (715) 720-2069 or e-mail - Night Hike and Ski. There will be lighted ski, snowshoe and walking trails. A Naturalist led snowshoe hike will be held from 6-7 p.m. Hike will occur regardless of conditions. Bring your own provisions and hot dogs to cook over the fire and don’t forget the marshmallows! Hot chocolate and cider will be available. To reserve snowshoes, call (715) 967-2800. For more information or to volunteer to help light or pick up candles that night, please contact the park at (715) 382-4574. State Park admission fee required. Sponsored by the Friends of Lake Wissota State Park. 5-8 p.m.
• Mirror Lake State Park , Baraboo, (608) 254-2333 or e-mail - Candlelight Ski/Hike/Snowshoe. There will be 2 miles of trail lighted for skiing and 1 mile for hiking and snowshoeing. Come and join us for a fun-filled, relaxing night! The friends group will have food and beverages for sale and two roaring bonfires to relax and warm by. Sponsored by Friends of Mirror Lake State Park. 6-8 p.m.
• Peninsula State Park, Fish Creek, (920) 868-3258 - Candlelight Ski. Ski an easy 1-mile candlelit trail groomed through the woods. Bonfire and refreshments at the warming shelter. Not enough snow will change the ski to a hike. Sorry, no hikers or pets are allowed on ski trails. Event will be cancelled if weather is severe. Call the day of the event. Meet at Lot 5, Highland Road. 5:30-8 p.m.
• Perrot State Park, Trempealeau, (608) 534-6409 or e-mail - Winter Fest. Activities will vary depending upon snow conditions: horse-drawn rides (sleigh or wagon), snowshoeing, cross-country skiing,sledding, winter tree and animal track identification, orienteering, nature bingo, and nature crafts. Meet at the Nature Center. 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
• Richard Bong State Recreation Area , Kansasville, (262) 878-5600 - Nature Journals. Resolve to tune into nature more this year! Keeping a journal is a great way to do just that. Join us to make your own beautiful journal then learn the basics of nature journals. Weather permitting we will go out to practice your first entry! Please call to preregister. Visitor Center. 1-3:30 p.m.
Wisconsin DNR Outdoor Report
Edited by Paul Holtan
Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources
PO Box 7921
Madison WI 53707-7921
(608) 267-7517
Fax: (608) 264-6293
E-mail: paul.holtan@dnr.state.wi.us
http://dnr.wi.gov/org/caer/ce/news/or/
