6 Young at Heart April 2021 Unified Newspaper Group
Five Things
Take a hike
5 scenic trails around Dane County to visit Story by Emilie Heidemann
A
s the weather warms, Wisconsin wildflowers again bloom, prairie grasses grow and native birds sing familiar songs. Such are the signs of summer, and you can experience them at many of Dane Countys scenic trails. Upon arrival, can also revel in the therapeutic effects of hiking or walking. Afterall, the activities remain some of the safer ones amid the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.
And whether youre my age of 100, theres something charming and nostalgic about taking an afternoon stroll at any of the five locations Im about to recommend. You could peruse the fairyscape that is the Pheasant Branch Conservancy, located just outside the City of Middleton, or the Cottage Grow entrance to the Glacial Drumlin State Trail. That, or you could take a trek along
any stretch of the otherworldly Ice Age Scenic Trail. If you want an unmatchable view of the City of Madison skyline, the Lake Monona Bike Trail is for you. Or, if romantic hikes along a boardwalk suit your fancy, you could visit the Lower Yahara River Trail. No matter what, youll be in for a visual and olfactory treat. Thats particularly true if you remember to stop and smell the flowers once in a while.
The creek provides millions of gallons of water to Madisons Lake Mendota and the Yahara Chain of Lakes. The corridor can provide a shaded oasis on a warm summer day, the Friends website reads.
The Pheasant Branch Conservancy, according to the Friends of Pheasant Branch Conservancy website, comprises oak savanna and lowland wetland prairies. Photo from the Friends courtesy of the Pheasant Branch Conservancy Facebook page.
Pheasant Branch Conser vancy Entrance at 4864 Pheasant Branch Road pheasantbranch.org
The Pheasant Branch Conservancy, according to the Friends of Pheasant Branch Conservancy website, comprises oak savanna and lowland wetland prairies. Its entrance, within City of Middleton limits, is located at 4864 Pheasant Branch Road. With trails for biking, hiking and walking, the 300 acre Dane County Unit of the Conservancy, has spacious uplands with open skies with grasses and mature hardwood stands. The lowlands are traversed by Pheasant Branch Creek, lined with trees and radiant wildflowers during the warmer months. Speaking from experience, walking the trail is like entering an alternate reality.
The Glacial Drumlin State Trail parallels State Highway 18 and Interstate 94 between Milwaukee and Madison. Photo courtesy the Glacial Drumlin State Trail Facebook page.
Glacial Drumlin State Trail Parallels State Highway 18 and Interstate 94 between Milwaukee, Madison dnr.wisconsin.gov
The Glacial Drumlin State Trail parallels State Highway 18 and Interstate 94 between Milwaukee and Madison. Ive personally visited the trail from the Cottage Grove access point, located at County Highway N going to Junction Road. The 52-mile stretch, going through Dane, Jefferson and Waukesha counties, offers various looks at Wisconsins native prairie and wetlands.
