The Ridges Adds Fall Excursions to Tour Series

The Ridges Sanctuary has added two fall excursions to its series of tours that explore the features of the Door County Coastal Byway, a Wisconsin Scenic Byway that stretches over 66 miles throughout the Door Peninsula.

Beginning just north of Sturgeon Bay, the Byway offers abundant opportunity for postcard quality scenery, fascinating cultural history and accessible natural geologic features. One of the best ways to explore its natural wonders is with an expert guide, and the Coastal Byway tours offer two seasoned leaders – Ridges naturalist Karen Newbern and Door County naturalist Paul Regnier.

Newbern and Regnier provide the transportation and colorful commentary for Apples, Cider and Colors on the Byway on Oct. 5, 1 – 5 pm. The road-trip features miles of fall colors along a northern loop and plenty of stops at local orchards to sample fall fruits and ferments. The fee is $30 per person for Ridges Members and $40 for the general public.

On Oct. 12, 1 – 4 pm, Regnier and Newbern will lead the Going Coastal Shoreline Walk, an off-the-beaten path hike along one of Door County’s most famous landscapes – the shoreline of Lake Michigan. Hikers will search for migrating birds and monarchs, as well as late-blooming wildflowers. The naturalists will also discuss alvars and pavement beaches, local invaders and fall phenology along the shores of this truly Great Lake. The fee is $15 for Ridges Members and $20 for the general public.

Tours depart from the Sanctuary’s Marshall Cabin at 8288 Highway Q in Baileys Harbor. Space is limited; for reservations, call 920.839.2802.