Treehaven Fall Hike Series

Experience Treehaven's 14 miles of trails during these weekly adventures beginning on Sunday, September 7th! Recurring every Sunday from 1-5 PM until the 12th of October, each experience features a multi-hour guided hike with a different route each week. We'll take many opportunities to look, listen, and learn about the diversity of life surrounding us as we explore a variety of Northwoods habitats including northern hardwood forests, bogs, sedge meadows, old growth pines, and more. With each consecutive week, fall colors will become more vibrant—and the "grand finale" on October 12th will lead us to the Ridgetop High Point Vista for a spectacular view of (estimated) peak color!

Schedule:

Sept 7, 1-5 PM: Beaver Beginnings

Our main focus this week will be the Beaver Meadow loop, which winds around an open meadow and riparian habitat surrounding Pickerel Creek. The landscape viewed from the scenic Listening Place deck is a visual reminder of a beaver's role as an ecosystem engineer, so we'll spend some time learning about beavers and exploring biodiversity in wetland habitats!

Sept 14, 1-5 PM: Red Oak Rove

This week we'll tackle the Red Oak loop, which passes through a diverse assortment of forest habitats where stands of trees including red pine, red maple, red oak, aspen, and black spruce can be viewed. Great habitat for ruffed grouse is found along this trail, and we'll learn about this iconic forest bird—maybe even spotting one as we go! You will also get to view the oldest red pine plantation at Treehaven, hand-planted by the founding Kummer-Vallier family nearly 70 years ago, and discover their legacy of forest conservation as you learn how Treehaven came to be.

Sept 21, 1-5 PM: Cordwood Cruise

Our main focus in Week 3 will be the Cordwood Connector trail, which will take us through aspen and pine trees where wildlife including birds, deer, porcupines, and more may be spotted. Along the way, you'll get the chance to visit the simple-yet-cozy Cordwood Cabin that serves as a place for hikers and wintertime skiiers to stop, rest, and enjoy the view!

Sept 28, 1-5 PM: Sugarbush Sojourn

On this week's adventure, we'll head out to one of the less-visited corners of Treehaven and explore the Sugarbush trail, which consists of northern hardwood forest habitat where numerous red and sugar maples can be observed. Fitting with the trail name, we'll talk about the fascinating process behind maple syrup production and its importance to humans throughout history. You'll also have the chance to view the Deer Exclosure, a fenced-off area designed to study the impacts of deer browse on forest regeneration, as we discuss the impact Wisconsin's abundant deer have on forest health.

Oct 5, 1-5 PM: Pine Promenade

For our second-to-last hike, we'll tackle a large portion of Treehaven's longest trail, the Big Pine loop. Heading out to the far end of the property, we will follow the Big Pine Creek and observe many interesting habitats like old growth pines, bogs, and northern white cedar wetlands. Along the way, we will pass by areas used in prescribed fire research, taking the opportunity to discuss the important role of fire in various Wisconsin ecosystems and how a lack of regular fires can harm—not help—the life within. As we begin the loop back, we'll take an uphill shortcut via the Big Pine Cutoff to observe a beautiful northern hardwood/hemlock stand and get a sneak peek at the colors we can expect from next week's finale!

Oct 12, 1-5 PM: Fall Colors Finale

On our final hike, we'll head to the Ridgetop loop, which will take us uphill to the scenic High Point Vista just in time for peak fall color. From the ridge, we'll be able to marvel at the autumn landscape and delight in the beauty of the surrounding hardwood forest! We'll discuss how these seasonal changes help broadleaf trees withstand a long and cold winter, and explore the adaptations of coniferous trees to learn how they differ (or overlap!) in survival strategies. Bring your camera!

All hikes meet in the main parking lot (follow posted signs) and each is about 2-3 miles long, with variance in difficulty that increases each week. Weeks 1-2 are least strenuous, while Weeks 5-6 involve lots of hilly terrain that may be challenging for some. We will move at a casual pace that best suits all members of the group, and will make periodic stops to learn about flora, fauna, and habitats we encounter. Hike attendees should consider their stamina and comfort with moderate to difficult hikes before registering. Hikes may vary slightly in length based on distance, group walking speed, and sightings along the trails. Most sessions will likely conclude around 4-4:30 PM, but due to variability please ensure your schedule is open until the listed end time (5 PM) if planning on registering.

Open to all ages, but attendees under 18 must be accompanied by an adult.

Cost: $15 per person, per individual session. Attend just one or two sessions, or all six! $80 full registration is valid for all 6 sessions, with a $10 discount off total price. ($90 value)

Payment can be made through Eventbrite (subject to Eventbrite fees), or in cash/check at the door. If paying at the door, please email ZmNvcnZ1cyB8IHV3c3AgISBlZHU= or call 715-346-2435 to register, and bring exact change the day of the event.

Questions? Contact ZmNvcnZ1cyB8IHV3c3AgISBlZHU= or call 715-346-2435!

Also check out other Trips & Adventurous Activities in Tomahawk, Health & Wellness events in Tomahawk.