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Along Paths of Peninsula State Park

Horseshoe Island (once Eagle Island) is shrouded in the warm colors of sunset as visible from the top of Eagle Tower. Photo by Ryan Sherman.

Wondering what you can do to enjoy the muddy outdoors between winter and spring? Peninsula State Park Naturalist Kathleen Harris suggests a, “walk, drive or bike [on] Middle Road at dusk to listen for Woodcock.”

“I love walking all of Hemlock Trail, especially the part that goes up the bluff and comes out along Middle Road,” Harris continues. “In early spring, with leaves not yet emerged, you can see through the forest canopy all the way to Fish Creek.”

With exception of Tennison Bay, campgrounds are closed until later in the spring, so visitors can enjoy an empty beach and an always surprising hike through North Nicolet, where you’ll likely find various animals tracks.

“One year I came across a group of Hermit Thrushes, migrating north,” says Harris. “Another time the trees were full of White-crowned and Song Sparrows. There is almost always a vocal Phoebe setting up territory.” Peninsula State Park has kept phenology records for about 13 years to track species that have been spotted.

Look throughout the park for shrubs tinged with yellow; these are likely buffaloberry or leatherwood, which are very early bloomers. Purchase a “Wildflower Checklist” for specific places to see wildflowers.

For an evening adventure, watch a sunset from Tennison kayak launch and listen for spring peepers, or climb 250-feet above Green Bay on the 75-foot Eagle Tower for a majestic sunset and view of the surrounding area.

There are plenty of ways to enjoy the park as you wait for spring’s luscious greens to arrive. Put on your hiking boots and start exploring the ever-changing landscape.