Ridges Sanctuary’s Snowshoe Hikes Return

The Ridges Sanctuary in Baileys Harbor will sponsor weekly, guided snowshoe hikes beginning Jan. 6. Each Friday and Saturday in January and February, the public is welcome to join a Ridges naturalist to explore the trails and learn about winter ecology and wildlife. The 90 minutes hikes will begin at 1 pm at the Ridges’ Marshall Cabin, located at 8288 Highway Q, Baileys Harbor. Some loaner snowshoes are available; call ahead to reserve. If there is insufficient snow, hike will take place without snowshoes. The cost is $5 for those with their own snowshoes, or $10 to borrow Ridges snowshoes. Children under 18 are free.

This month, Door County Maritime Museum Director Bob Desh will share some of his experiences with lake birds at the Early Birders Club meeting on Jan. 14 at 10 am, which will take place at the Maritime Museum in Sturgeon Bay. Following the meeting, the group will look for open water and winter birds.

The Early Birders program is designed for families with children ages 6-11. Each monthly meeting includes birding activities, crafts, birdwatching hikes, special guests, and more.

For an annual fee of $15, each family receives a copy of Wild About Wisconsin Birds and a Door County bird checklist. The drop-in fee for the program is $5 per family.

Jan. 21 from 2 – 4 pm, families can share in an afternoon of winter fun at The Ridges’ Family Winter Games. The outdoor program will feature snowshoe races, snow painting, snowflake art, animal tracking and other activities, followed by hot chocolate and marshmallows around the campfire. Space is limited; call The Ridges or the YMCA at 920.868.3660 to register. The program fee is $15 per family.

For more information call 920.839.2802 or visit http://www.RidgesSanctuary.org.