This Wisconsin Nature Sanctuary Makes For The Perfect Summer Day Trip

Warm Wisconsin summer days pass too quickly – there’s nothing like a day spent exploring the lush natural beauty of the Dairy State. In southeast Wisconsin, a 90-acre nature preserve is the perfect destination for a day trip. The Hawthorn Hollow Nature Sanctuary and Arboretum is home to gorgeous trails, native prairie, historic buildings and more. Don’t let summer get away: Here’s what’s waiting for you at the Hawthorn Hollow, a lovely Wisconsin nature preserve.

Hawthorn Hollow Nature Sanctuary and Arboretum is located in Kenosha – it’s an easy day drip from places like Milwaukee and Chicago. It offers a perfect escape for nature enthusiasts, history buffs, and anyone seeking a peaceful retreat.

The sanctuary dates to 1935 when Ruth Teuscher, a Racine teacher, purchased a tract of land in the Town of Somers. With her sister Margaret, also a teacher, they named the property after a stand of Hawthorn Trees that grow along the Pike River.

Today the property in the Pike River Valley still reflects the interests of those two teachers, and it includes a blend of nature, history, and horticulture.

The property includes an area of native prairie, and there are two miles of trails winding through the sanctuary.

There are also cultivated plants – you’ll find perennial gardens, a butterfly garden, and a dwarf conifer collection. Some historic buildings have also been moved here, including the Pike River School, which dates to 1847; the second Pike River School, which was built in 1906; and the original Somers Town Hall, which was built in 1859.

There’s always something happening at the Sanctuary. It holds a lot of events throughout the year. Annual events include Birds and Breakfast, Walk in the Woods Art Fair, and Holiday Boutique. Wildflower Hikes, Maple Sugaring classes, Bird Walks, Yoga in the Garden, and Lunar Yoga.

This is a wonderful little Wisconsin nature preserve. Learn more about the Hawthorn Hollow Nature Sanctuary and Arboretum on the sanctuary’s website. If you’re exploring the outdoors this year, here are some products that will make camping a breeze.