THE REFUGE BLOG
While Door County is renowned for its stunning water activities, there are plenty of land-based alternatives to enjoy. Horseback riding is a joyful blend of adventure and connection, offering a unique...
Summer wildflowers in Door County, Wisconsin, paint the landscape with vibrant hues and delicate beauty. From late spring through early autumn, fields and forest edges burst into a colorful display...
This enchanting photograph captures a young fawn nestled in the serene landscape of The Ridges Sanctuary. The gentle sunlight filters through the trees, casting a soft glow on its speckled coat...
The Ridges Sanctuary in Baileys Harbor, Wisconsin, features the historic Baileys Harbor Range Lights, which have been guiding mariners since 1869. This pair of lighthouses consists of the Upper Range...
Well OK, so no antelope, but we do have deer! These two were visiting early in the morning and on this day they stopped by for an afternoon snack. They tolerated me standing outside by the house long...
The Ridges Sanctuary is named for a series of 30 ridges and swales formed by the movement of Lake Michigan over the past 1400 years. This topography provides a wide range of environmental conditions...
We relaxed and enjoyed the view at Porte des Morts park at the north end of Door County. The cliff comprises a part of the Niagara Escarpment. The escarpment stretches over 430 miles from Wisconsin...
Cana Island Light house was built in 1869, You can walk or ride a haywagon to the the island and visit the home of the lighthouse keeper and his family. This time the tower was open and we...
Almost 100 species of butterflies can be found in Door county. A couple of species were flying around The Refuge last week; the Red Admiral and the Northern Crescent. Red Admirals are highly adaptable...
Throughout May and June wildflowers may be found along many park trails. On our last trip we found forget me nots, trillium and wild strawberry. Yellow slipper orchids are abundant at The...
Door County is home to over 2000 acres of cherry trees! The trees start to bloom in mid-May in southern Door county and work their way north over a week or two. Cherries are ready for picking in...
The Refuge is 4 miles as the crow flies from Newport State Park, which is an International Dark Sky Park, one of just 48 parks in the world to earn the distinction. The park is one of the...
Winter is a wonderful time in Door County. You can slow down, relax and enjoy the natural beauty of Door County. The time lapse video of a winter sunrise and photos were taken at our waterfront by one...
Peninsula State Park is located on the bay side of Door County near Fish Creek. It offers numerous recreational opportunities including camping, swimming, biking, hiking and more. For more...
The sand beach at Europe Bay Beach stretches over a mile on Lake Michigan. Located in the northern peninsula, it is less busy and a great place for a stroll on the beach, swimming, or kayaking. The...
Door County is home to 11 lighthouses, many of which were built in the 1800s. Tours provide a glimpse into the past, the maritime and navigational history. Here are two we have visited: The first two...
Most of the native orchids in Wisconsin can be found in Door County. These yellow lady slippers, Cypripedium parviflorum, are blooming in the open woods around the refuge. We were surprised to find...
These photos were taken at the Three Spring Nature Preserve, which is just 2 miles down the road from The Refuge. The preserve is over 500 acres and features; For more information visit...