Few People Know About This Wisconsin Valley Covered In Wildflowers
Wisconsin’s winter is infamously long, but when the days become warmer and the season changes, magic unfolds in the state’s wild places. In southwest Wisconsin, there’s a huge natural area that practically explodes with color and plant life. It’s called the Kickapoo Valley Reserve and it’s a perfect place for a Wisconsin wildflower hike. Here’s why you should make plans to visit the Kickapoo this year.
The Kickapoo Valley Reserve was created on land that was purchased for a flood control project on the Kickapoo River. Many farms were acquired for the planned dam and reservoir, but the project was halted after opposition in the 1970s.
Instead, the land was transformed into a public nature reserve, and today, it covers over 8,600 acres. It spans a huge swath between the villages of La Farge and Ontario in southwestern Wisconsin.
The valley is known for its stunning natural beauty, including its rolling hills, forests, and meadows filled with wildflowers. It holds a diverse range of plant and animal life - 400 plant species have been identified here, including some that are very rare.
Many wildflowers can be found in the reserve, including Prairie Smoke, Butterfly Weed, Wild Lupine, Black-Eyed Susans, Coneflowers, and Yellow Lady’s Slippers.
If you're not a hiker, you'll still find plenty to do in the reserve. It's also a popular place for biking, paddling, camping, horseback riding, or just taking in the flowers!
The Kickapoo Valley Reserve is a must-visit destination for anyone who loves nature, hiking, and wildflowers. Learn more on the Kickapoo Valley Reserve website. Wisconsin has a lot of hidden natural gems, inclduing a wild mountain range you might not have heard of.
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Address: Kickapoo Valley Reserve Visitor Center, S3661 WI-131, La Farge, WI 54639, USA
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