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-
Fall Sanctuary Guided Hike
Monday-Saturday -
Bat Chats Guided Night Hike
October 11, 2024 -
Bat House Building Workshop
October 18, 2024 -
Get to Know Wisconsin’s Bats Presentation
October 18, 2024 -
Boos & Brews
October 24, 2024 -
Halloween Hike on the Boardwalk!
October 26, 2024
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: Helping Wisconsin Bats
The Ridges Sanctuary offers a unique opportunity to explore nature in its purest form through programs like Sanctuary Night Hikes. These immersive experiences engage all the senses, helping participants connect with the surrounding boreal forest in a deeply personal way. From identifying trees by touch to observing bats under the night sky, these events foster both awareness and appreciation for Wisconsin’s wildlife, including its vital but often misunderstood bat populations. Through educational programs, bat house workshops, and habitat conservation efforts, there are many ways to help protect and support Wisconsin’s bats.
Nature Notes: Human-Wildlife Interactions
Nature Notes: Finding Sanctuary in the Swales
In the News: The Ridges Documents Small Mammals
