Winter Fun Awaits Horicon Marsh Visitors
Fun for the whole family awaits this winter at Horicon Marsh.Photo credit: DNR
Contact(s): Elizabeth Herzmann, DNR Natural Resources Educator, 920-387-7893, Elizabeth.Herzmann@wisconsin.gov
January 14, 2020 at 3:31:21 pm
HORICON, Wis. - The ducks, geese and cranes may have migrated south for the winter, but the opportunities for fun and learning are overwintering at the Horicon Marsh Education and Visitor Center, with activities and programs for visitors of all ages. Stories, stars, feathered and furry wildlife all offer plenty of reasons to get out and explore, so be sure to include Horicon Marsh in your family's next adventure.
Throughout the winter, the Explorium is open seven days a week except for major holidays, welcoming you back indoors for a warm-up after a day on the trails. The new winter hours are Monday-Friday, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. and Saturday-Sunday, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.
Weekly Nature Walks Wednesday, Jan. 15, 22, 29, 1-2:30 p.m.
These relaxed, guided walks will explore marsh flora and fauna while taking in the stunning views on the marsh. Length and difficulty will depend upon participants' needs. The meeting location will vary; check the Friends of Horicon Marsh website or Facebook page for updates.
Candlelight Hike Saturday, Jan. 18, 5-9 p.m.
At the candlelight hike, short and long loop trails will be illuminated by candlelight. There will also be a bonfire, refreshments and indoor activities, including a bake sale and raffle. The gift shop will also be open inside. The short loop trail is 0.36 miles, and the long loop is 1.5 miles. It is a free event, but donations of non-perishable food or new hats/gloves/mittens are strongly encouraged. Onsite parking will be minimal, but shuttles are available, please check Friends of Horicon Marsh Facebook page and website for details on shuttles.
Family Fun Night: New Moon Stargazing Friday, Jan. 24, 6-8 p.m.
Learn why winter is the best time for views of Wisconsin's night sky. We will begin with an indoor presentation with tips for finding constellations, then take a short hike out to clear viewing areas. If conditions are unsuitable for stargazing, Jan. 25 is a backup date. Check Friends of Horicon Marsh Facebook for updates.
Back to Basics: Tracking Saturday, Jan. 25 10:30-11:30 a.m.
This youth program is a great way to introduce your children to the art of recognizing signs of wildlife activity. We search for tracks and other animal signs and hope for fresh snow. Snowshoeing will happen if conditions allow. Ages 7-11.
Winter Birding Bus Tour Saturday, Feb. 1, 3-5:30 p.m.
Whether you are a new or experienced birder, this guided bus tour offers an exciting chance to spot some of Horicon's winter bird visitors. DNR staff will take you to all the hotspots as we search for beautiful birds like horned larks, snowy owls and more. Dress warmly, as we may have the opportunity to get out and put some of the star birds on a spotting scope. Pre-registration and payment of $15 per person are required.
Weekly Nature Walks Wednesday, Feb. 5, 12, 19, 26, 1-2:30 p.m.
These relaxed, guided walks will explore marsh flora and fauna while taking in the stunning views on the marsh. Length and difficulty will depend upon participants' needs. The meeting location will vary; check the website/Friends of Horicon Marsh Facebook for updates.
Little Otters: Do You Want to Build a Snow Mammal? Saturday, Feb. 8, 10:30-11:30 a.m.
Building a snowman is a winter family tradition, and this children's program steps snow art up a notch as we make masterful four-legged sculptures. Youth Program ages 1-6.
Full Moon Hike: Snow Moon Sunday, Feb. 9, 7-8 p.m.
Experience the magic of Horicon Marsh under the bright light of a full winter moon. Guided by DNR staff, this hike offers opportunities for nighttime wildlife viewing and a chance to learn about annual cycles at the marsh.
Stories at the Marsh: Do Frogs Drink Hot Chocolate? Thursday and Saturday, Feb. 13 and 15, 10-11 a.m.
Learn about many of the ways that Horicon Marsh's animals stay warm during the winter through stories, a short hike and a craft to take home. Hot chocolate will be served to warm ourselves up, too. Youth program ages 1-6.
Eagle Adventure Bus Tour Saturday, Feb. 15, 1-4 p.m.
Bald eagles overwinter in many places in Wisconsin, and recent years have seen an increase in their numbers around Horicon Marsh. Dress for the weather as DNR staff takes you to areas where these majestic birds of prey tend to congregate. This event is limited to 30 participants, pre-registration and payment of $15 per person required.
The Horicon Marsh Education and Visitor Center is located between Horicon and Mayville on Highway 28. For a detailed list of all Horicon Marsh Education and Visitor Center special events, please visit the Friends of Horicon Marsh website or the Friends of Horicon Marsh Facebook Page. Additional programs will be added throughout the winter season.
For more information regarding Horicon Marsh education programs, contact Liz Herzmann, DNR educator, at 920-387-7893.