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.


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.

An illustration of tall grasses and seeds

1,700+

Acres preserved

An illustration of a plank path over water

2,600

Boardwalk feet (ft.)

An illustration of a ridge with different layers of rock

30

Ridges and swales

An illustration of a purple orchid

29

Unique orchid species

News from the Ridges & Swales

The Ridges hosts bat programs and workshops to spread awareness of Wisconsin bat species and White Nose Syndrome. The acquisition of an acoustic monitor in 2023 allowed us to conduct bat surveys during the 2024 summer season. On the evening of June 18th, Ridges staff unexpectedly captured twelve recordings of the northern long-eared bat in the Sanctuary!