Photo by Andrew Pirrung
More than a walk in the woods
Experience one of the Midwest’s most biologically diverse ecosystems, where kids hike for free, and trails are open from dawn til dusk.
Always something to do
All Events-
Winter Sanctuary Guided Hike
Fridays & Saturdays, January – March -
Walk & Talk with Ridges Research Team
Monday, March 23 -
Illustrating the Natural World
April 03, 2026 -
Natural Dye Workshop
April 10, 2026 -
Midwest Crane Count
April 18, 2026 -
Crane Nest Habitat Hike
Saturday, April 18 and Sunday, April 19 -
Crane Symposium Keynote Presentation – Cranes: A True Wetland Wonder *Virtual*
April 18, 2026 -
Chick Chats Story Hour
April 19, 2026 -
Kids Birding 101 Hike
April 19, 2026
There’s magic when land preservation, education, and research come together.
What started as 30 acres has grown from a local gem to a national treasure – with international appeal and members in all 50 states.
1,700+
Acres preserved
2,600
Boardwalk feet (ft.)
30
Ridges and swales
29
Unique orchid species
News from the Ridges & Swales
Nature Notes: Lessons from the Forest
The forest teaches us many things; we just need to know where to look and how to listen. The winter season brings the lesson of life and allows us to see movement of animals in a way that no other season can. While most animals are elusive and not always seen while hiking, the ground cover of snow allows us to understand activities of active, resident animals in our area through deer beds, middens, scat, and tracks.
Nature Notes: Snowy Owls on the Prowl
Nature Notes: Season of Change – How Nature Prepares for Winter
The Swale Tale
