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: Spring is Coming!
As the days grow longer and the sun feels a little warmer, it’s tempting to believe spring has finally arrived—until winter reminds us otherwise. Even so, the snow is melting quickly, the ground is beginning to thaw, and daytime temperatures are staying above freezing. Signs of the season are already here: water flowing beneath Hidden Brook, frogs calling on warm afternoons, and sandhill cranes returning overhead. Spring is on its way—winter just insists on one last dramatic goodbye.
Nature Notes: Lessons from the Forest
Nature Notes: Snowy Owls on the Prowl
The Swale Tale
