Spring Green Preserve

Discover the unique terrain of the Spring Green Preserve Trail, an easy 1.4-mile (2.3 km) hike that offers a distinct experience. You will navigate sandy trails and open sand areas, gaining about 180 feet (55 metres) in elevation. This route, which typically takes around 37 minutes to complete, provides panoramic views from the top of a bluff, showcasing the area's unusual landscape.

When planning your visit, remember that the preserve is open year-round from dawn to dusk, allowing you to explore at your convenience. The main trailhead for the Spring Green Preserve Trail is easily accessible off Jones Road. Please note that dogs are not permitted on this trail, a measure taken to protect the sensitive ecosystem you will encounter.

This trail introduces you to a rare ecosystem featuring rolling sand prairie, dry bluff prairie, and black oak barrens, a landscape quite different from typical Wisconsin scenery. It highlights the unique geology of the driftless area, characterized by its hilly terrain and bluffs. The preserve offers a glimpse into a natural environment that stands out in the region.

The Judy Silverstein Memorial Trail offers an easy hiking experience, covering 2.8 miles (4.5 km) with a gentle elevation gain of 155 feet (47 metres). You can expect to complete this route in about 1 hour and 11 minutes. The trail begins on a mostly flat, sandy prairie with tall grasses, giving you a unique "desert ecosystem" feel that is uncommon for Wisconsin. As you continue, the path leads you into a forest before a gentle climb, culminating in a steep ascent up a bluff where you will find a rewarding scenic view of Spring Green.

When planning your visit, you will find this trail generally accessible without specific warnings about permits, fees, or seasonal closures. The route is part of the Spring Green Preserve State Natural Area, managed by The Nature Conservancy. The path is well-defined, and the accessible route concludes at the top of the bluff, clearly marked by a sign. This makes for a straightforward outdoor adventure, allowing you to focus on the natural surroundings.

What truly sets this trail apart is its distinctive natural environment, blending prairie and forest with a surprising desert-like character. In warmer months, keep an eye out for wildflowers, cacti, and even lizards, which add to the unique biodiversity of the area. The trail's journey from sandy prairie to a bluff-top vista provides a varied and engaging experience, highlighting the diverse landscapes within the Spring Green Prairie.