Exploring nature through well-marked trails is one of the best ways to reconnect with the great outdoors. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced adventurer, there’s a trail for everyone. In this blog post, we will dive deep into some of the best trails that Wisconsin has to offer, discuss the benefits of hiking, and provide practical tips to help you make the most of your experiences. Nature Trails That Will Take Your Breath Away Nature trails are the pathways that allow us to wander through forests, mountains, and valleys. They offer a unique way to experience the beauty of the environment and discover wildlife. A few notable trails include in Wisconsin include: Ice Age Trail The Ice Age Trail is a thousand-mile long trail that showcases the unique glacial features of Wisconsin. It stretches from the eastern to the western parts of the state, providing hikers with stunning views of rolling hills, lakes, and forests. The trail is divided into several segments, each offering different challenges and scenery. North Country Trai l The North Country Trail is part of a larger national trail system that runs through seven states. In Wisconsin, it traverses beautiful landscapes, including forests, wetlands, and scenic ridges. This trail is ideal for both long-distance hikers and those looking for shorter day hikes. Kettle Moraine State Forest The Kettle Moraine State Forest features numerous trails that wind through glacial landforms, offering a variety of terrains and ecosystems. Popular segments include the Scuppernong Trail and the Emma Carlin Trail, which provide opportunities for hiking, camping, and enjoying nature. Devil's Lake State Park Devil's Lake State Park is one of Wisconsin's most popular outdoor destinations. The park features a variety of trails that range in difficulty, with stunning views of the lake and surrounding bluffs. The East Bluff and West Bluff trails are particularly popular among hikers. Chequamegon National Forest Chequamegon National Forest offers a network of trails that cater to a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, biking, and birdwatching. The forest is known for its diverse wildlife and beautiful landscapes, making it a great destination for nature enthusiasts. North Country Trail near Marengo, Wisconsin These trails not only highlight the splendor of nature but also provide ample opportunities for wildlife watching, photography, and experiencing Wisconsin's various topographies. Choosing the Right Nature Trail Selecting a trail for your adventure can be overwhelming due to the numerous options available. Here are some factors to consider: Skill Level : Assess your fitness level and hiking experience. Beginner trails can range from easy to moderate, while expert trails often include steep climbs and rough terrain. Length of the Trail : Determine how much time you can dedicate to hiking. Some trails offer day hikes, while others are better suited for multi-day backpacking trips. Scenery and Wildlife : Research the type of scenery you enjoy—mountains, forests, lakes, or desert landscapes. Additionally, if you're keen on wildlife watching, make sure the trail is known for diverse fauna. Season and Weather : The best time to hike can vary greatly based on the trail’s location. Some trails may be inaccessible during certain seasons due to snow or rain. To help with your planning, consider using tools such as hiking apps or websites that provide trail maps, reviews, and real-time weather updates. Keeping Safety in Mind Nature exploration can be exhilarating, but safety should always come first. Here are essential safety tips: Inform Someone : Always tell a friend or family member your hiking plans, including your expected return time. Trail Awareness : Familiarize yourself with trail markers and signs. If you are unsure where to go, consult a map or ask fellow hikers for guidance. Pack Essentials : Carry enough water, snacks, a first aid kit, and a reliable navigation tool (map or GPS). Condition Preparedness : Train your body by engaging in physical activities that build endurance. Whether it's regular walks, runs, or participating in a fitness class, preparing physically is key! Remember, being cautious allows you to enjoy nature without unnecessary worries. Backpacking on the North Country Trail The Benefits of Hiking Hiking offers numerous advantages, contributing positively to mental, emotional, and physical well-being: Boosts Mental Health : Studies indicate that spending time in nature can decrease stress levels and improve mood. Getting away from everyday life allows you to recharge mentally. Physical Fitness : Hiking is an excellent cardio workout. It strengthens the legs and core, boosting physical fitness while providing a fun alternative to typical exercise routines. Social Connections : Whether you hike solo or in a group, there are great opportunities to build relationships. Joining local hiking clubs or events can lead to lasting friendships. Mindfulness and Reflection : The tranquil environment of a nature trail provides a perfect backdrop for reflection. Use this time to think, meditate, or simply appreciate your surroundings. For those interested in hiking and backpacking, it can become a fulfilling hobby that supports both physical fitness and community well-being. Hiking path at Willow River State Park Preparing for Your Hiking Adventure Preparation is crucial for a thrilling time on the trails. Here are steps to ensure a successful hike: Trail Research : Before you go, gather information about the trail's difficulty, points of interest, and any potential hazards. Proper Gear : Invest in quality hiking footwear, weather-appropriate clothing, and a sturdy backpack. The right gear enhances comfort and performance. Hydration : Always carry sufficient water for the journey, especially on longer hikes. Dehydration can detract from your experience. Food Choices : Pack energy-boosting snacks like nuts, granola bars, or dried fruits. These provide the necessary fuel for your hike. Leave No Trace : Always follow the Leave No Trace principles to preserve the natural environment. Respect wildlife and ensure not to pollute the landscape. Armed with this preparation, you’ll be well on your way to creating unforgettable hiking memories. Let Nature Be Your Guide Nature trails offer a fantastic opportunity for everyone to explore and enjoy the beauty of the outdoors. With an array of trails to choose from, safety preparations, and an understanding of the mental and physical benefits of hiking, you are sure to create lasting memories. So, lace up your hiking boots, pack your essentials, and embark on a nature adventure that promises to inspire wonder and tranquility. Remember, nature is a precious gift—Happy Hiking!

Over 6M people are buried here While in Paris we decided to visit the Catacombs. It's quite an experience. Check out our Catacombs video . The history of the Paris Catacombs is very interesting. You can learn more on their official website . It's A LOT of narrow winding steps down and up so if you have mobility issues this might not be for you. Additionally some of the passages are narrow and, of course, you're constantly surrounded by skeletal remains. An audio guide is available and definitely worth getting. The Catacombs might not be everyone's cup of tea, but we appreciated the history and tour.

Many people don't realize that there is a fantastic snowshoe area in Northwestern Wisconsin. The blue hills are the remains of mountains that are older the the Rockies. While no longer mountainous, the blue hills do rise about 600 feet above the surrounding areas. This part of Wisconsin is full of wildlife viewing, interesting geological formations, and, lots of trails for hiking, skiing, and snowshoeing. The blue hills are located in Rusk county and one of the best kept secrets in the state! Winter in Wisconsin North Woods We stumbled upon the blue hills during one of our frequent trips up north to go camping. They looked promising for a fun snowshoeing weekend. When we go out and about, we are always on the lookout for new hiking or snowshoeing spots. Now that snow is here, it's the perfect time to get out and enjoy! The Blue Hills Trail is an incredibly scenic trail system in Rusk county. There are over 22 miles of groomed cross country ski trails, and snowshoeing trails. The trails are located about 10 miles north of Bruce, Wisconsin. The area is completely free to use. The trails are moderate to difficult. At times, ropes are needed to help you up the steep hills. While challenging, it is a lot of fun. Out of season, the trails are open to hikers. So if you're not a fan of skiing or snowshoeing, be sure to check it out in the spring, summer, or fall. The trail area also has a lovely warming house. We took our lunch with us and were able to enjoy it in the warmth of the house. It's a lovely timber house that's perfect for a quick break, and to change in and out of your winter gear. There are also pit toilets available. A true amenity in the Wisconsin woods. Warming house in the Blue Hills Ski Trails The Blue Hills Trail Association does a tremendous job of maintaining this free, trail system. The trails are run based on donations from individuals and businesses. Although it's free for you to use, if you do choose to try out this great spot, please consider taking a donation to help keep the trails and warming house maintained. You can also make a donation here. Please let us know if you check out this great place! We can't wait to go back for more snowshoeing this winter. Map of the skiing and snowshoeing trails at the Blue Hills Trails

We had a GREAT November trip to Galena, Il in northwestern Illinois. Check out our video about the trip . Galena's first claim to fame was lead mining. At one point it was larger than Chicago. This chair was in Grant's home when he lived there. He took it with him to the White House, then brought it back to Galena Ulysses Grant lived there and his home, which we visited, is very much the way he left it. Most of the stuff in the house was there when he was there. The Galena Masonic Lodge The town is full of buildings on the historic register, and the architecture is very interesting. Be aware that Galena's "season" ends in October, so some things aren't happening after that. For example the blacksmith shop we wanted to visit was closed. October is the town's busiest month, and we didn't mind missing the shoulder-to-shoulder crowds that month sees. We had a great AirBNB downtown so were able to park the car for the weekend and walk everywhere. Kudos to Krista and her superpower of finding great places to stay. Parking in downtown Galena is a bit of a nightmare, so being able to park and walk was great. Galena is a town of hills and steps. Take that into account as you plan your stay if you have mobility issues. There are a lot of interesting shops downtown and plenty of places to eat and/or get a drink. You know how we are about coffee. :) No problem finding good coffee and a snack. This was a great getaway weekend.

I can't remember where I got the quiver I'd been using. Probably a garage sale. It worked, but it never felt like a good fit for my traditional archery. So I figured I'd learn to work with leather and make a new quiver at the same time. I learned a lot, and documented the process. Have a look at our leather quiver video and see how it went for me.

Don't get me wrong. I've shot A LOT of pics on film. But I LOVE what digital photography offers me. Maybe because I'm not that great a shooter. This pic is a perfect example of what I'm talking about. Krista and I went to the Badlands and it was a photographer's paradise. The sky was perfectly clear one night and I had an idea for this image. But no great idea how to execute it. No natural light, so you couldn't see the bluffs at all from 50' away. But the sky was amazing. In the end I set the camera for a long exposure and "painted" the hills with a powerful flashlight to illuminate them. How long an exposure? What ISO? How much time should I spend painting? I had absolutely no idea. It took an hour of messing with settings (Krista is incredibly patient) for me to get a good pic. Thanks to digital I could shoot, check the image, change settings, shoot, check, change.... There were a lot of variables. I guess if I were forced to shoot on film I could manage it again. But I'd miss the ability I have now of instantly checking results to see if I need to tweak settings. This is especially important to me on night sky shots that require f-stop, ISO and shutter speed to be just right. I can also use a shotgun approach to taking pics; trying a variety of settings and looking later to see which was the best. And I don't have to pay for processing. I often say...Pixels are cheap. Let's shoot. How about you? Do you shoot on film or on pixels? This pic was shot on a Canon T8i. 100 second exposure. ISO 2000. f/5.6. 18-55 mm lens at 18 mm. About a 15 second sweep across the hills with a flashlight. I can't wait for the opportunity to try this again.

A recent road trip took us through Dickeyville, Wi, so we stopped at the Dickeyville Grotto . The Grotto is on the grounds of the Holy Ghost Parish. It was built between 1925 and 1930 by Father Matthias Wernerus. He used an amazing array of materials; broken glass, geodes, sea shells, colorful stones, agates, plates..... You'll see this in our video about the Grotto . If you're anywhere close to Dickeyville the Grotto is, without question, worth a stop.

We've been kayaking for a long time and stumbled across kayak sails. Not literally.... We were camping on Beaver Lake, the wind was up and we had the sails with us. Let's go!! We've got the whole experience on video. Check it out here and let us know what you think. Would you put a sail on your yak?

Traveling doesn’t have to mean spending a fortune on food. With thoughtful planning and a touch of creativity, you can enjoy meals without stretching your budget. This guide offers practical tips and easy, affordable options so you can dine well while on the go. Get ready to make the most of your travel experience! The Importance of Meal Prep Meal prepping might sound like a chore, but it can save you a lot of money and stress on your trips. When you prepare meals in advance, you not only save money, but you can also fit your menu to suit what types of food you eat. The day before our trips, I dedicate a little bit of time to prepare snacks and simple meals. For example, I often make a batch of protein balls for our trips. (You can find the recipe here ). I also tend to make salads to put in lunch wraps. Because the wraps can get soggy if you pre-make them, I pack the wraps and salads separately, and make the wraps on the go. We have also opted for wraps that contain protein and veggies. Again, I package the protein and veggies separately from the wraps. Packing Smart: The Soft-Sided Cooler Investing in a soft-sided cooler can be a huge benefit if you are trying to take budget friendly meals on your trip. These lightweight, portable coolers are perfect for storing snacks and simple meals like oatmeal cups, breakfast sandwiches, or lunch wraps. We prefer this cooler: https://amzn.to/3AwVEMd Breakfast of Champions You want to choose items that travel well. For us, we tend to gravitate towards a couple easy, breakfast options: Oatmeal : Quick and simple. Pack individual servings and add hot water, enjoying a warm breakfast wherever you are. You can also opt for prepackaged oatmeal if you prefer. Premade Breakfast Sandwiches : Assemble sandwiches with eggs, cheese, and your choice of meat, wrap them in foil, and keep them cool until meal time. These are easily reheated if you have access to a microwave or oven during your travels. Lunch Like a Pro Lunchtime can be a delightful experience with homemade meal wraps. They're easy to customize and quick to prepare. Here’s a simple recipe for delicious sandwich wraps: Homemade Sandwich Wraps : Ingredients: Tortillas (we like whole wheat, but you can also use white flour tortillas) Your choice of protein (such as turkey, hummus, or grilled chicken) Fresh veggies (like spinach, bell peppers, and cucumbers) A spread (such as mustard, mayo, or a yogurt-based dressing) Instructions: Lay out the tortilla and spread your choice of dressing evenly. Layer your protein and fresh veggies on top. Roll tightly and slice in half. These wraps are not only a tasty way to recharge but can also be made in bulk for days when you're on the move. Pair them with a piece of fruit, like an apple or a banana or sliced veggies, to round out your meal and keep you satisfied. Hydration is Key Staying hydrated is crucial while traveling. Instead of buying bottled drinks, opt for reusable water bottles. They keep you hydrated, reduce waste, and are convenient to refill at rest stops or your accommodations. Flavoring your water can enhance your hydration experience. Adding slices of lemon, cucumber, or fresh mint can make drinking water more enjoyable. This simple change may encourage you to drink more throughout the day, which is key in staying energized. Finding Local Markets When you reach your destination, local grocery stores and farmers' markets are wonderful places to explore. Not only can you stock up on affordable snacks, but you can also discover fresh produce and local specialties. Shopping at these markets can save you up to 50% compared to dine-in restaurants. You may find ready-to-eat options like salads or sandwiches that are both fresh and budget-friendly. Plus, you get to experience local culture through its food. This was definitely one of the best things we did on our trip to Paris! Embrace the Power of Snacks Snacking smartly while traveling can be a game changer. Instead of buying overpriced snacks at convenience stores, pack healthy options you prepare at home. Consider these snack ideas: Veggies and Hummus : Carrot sticks, bell pepper strips, and celery with hummus create a tasty, nutritious snack. Fresh fruit : apples, bananas, oranges, and strawberries are some of our favorite snacks to pack. Trail Mix : Combine your favorite nuts, seeds, and dried fruits for an energy-boosting treat. Protein balls : these are easy to pre-make and take for a snack. They are customizable to suit your preferences. (recipe here ) Having healthy snacks readily available not only saves you money but also helps keep your energy levels up as you explore. Final Thoughts Traveling on a budget doesn’t mean you have to skimp on good food. With some preparation, you can enjoy nutritious and satisfying meals while keeping costs low. Whether you pack a soft cooler with healthy breakfast and lunch options, shop at local markets, or stay hydrated with reusable bottles, these tips can enhance your travel experience without breaking the bank. Next time you're ready to hit the road, remember that tasty, homemade meals and snacks are the way to go. Your wallet—and your taste buds—will appreciate it! Happy travels! **please note--this post contains affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. **

Galena is nestled in northwestern Illinois and is full of rich history. At one time, it was a booming steam boat hub that was actually larger than its counterpart Chicago. It was one of the most important cities in Illinois because of its proximity to the Mississippi river and its lead mines. Galena was also home to several civil war generals including Ulysses S Grant. In 1828, there were over 10,000 residents that called Galena home. The boom ended in the early 1900s with the overall decline in the use of lead. Today 3500 residents call Galena home. We decided to take a weekend trip to Galena after George visited it on his Blue Ridge Parkway motorcycle trip. The city is just over 4 hours from our house, so an easy drive. The drive took us through the driftless area of Wisconsin which is an area worth exploring. We did a quick stop in Viroqua, Wisconsin for coffee and then made our way to Dickeyville to check out the Dickeyville Grotto and Shrines. Our accommodations in Galena were in the heart of the historic downtown. We stayed at the Balendine suites. It was constructed in the 1800s and was formerly a hospital, then apartments, and is now an Airbnb with 8 different units to choose from. Our unit was a suite perfect for a single person or a couple. It featured a kitchenette that was well appointed, a comfy queen bed, and a private bathroom. The best part about it was, once we parked our car, we could walk anywhere we wanted in order to explore historic downtown Galena. This was a great benefit because parking in downtown Galena can be a nightmare. The main street is incredible. It really gives you a taste of what Galena might have been like during the 1850s boom. Blocks of storefronts greet you with an old timey, quaint feeling. However, don't let that fool you. Galena is a hopping tourist town. Several of the shop owners told us October is their busiest month with shoulder to shoulder crowds. Thankfully, we were there the first weekend in November so missed the busy crowds. While this was nice from the perspective of not having to be jostled by crowds of people, it did mean that some attractions were not open. George was looking forward to seeing the 1800s working blacksmith shop which was closed because we were out of season. We could have researched that aspect better, but most likely would have chosen being out of season with fewer people around anyway. Because we were there during the off season we were fortunate enough to have a private tour of the Grant home. This museum is free to the public, although they do accept freewill donations. The house is filled with furniture and decorations original to the house. Walking through the house and grounds gives you a unique idea of what life was like in the 1860s. Including the once a week bath. All six family members used the same bath water, with Dad going first. Galena's historic district is very walkable but he prepared. There are lots of steps! If you have mobility issues, you will want to consider driving your car or getting one of the local transportation services to shuttle you around. Our room was at the top of an old flight of narrow windy stairs, we walked up several flights of stairs to get to the Grant house, and we also took the historic high school light steps to view the incredible houses on Prospect street. It's a real cardio and calf workout! When we travel, we work hard to not eat all our meals out. (Check out budget friendly food ideas here .) That being said, we do like to treat ourselves to a nice meal when we travel. Food choices abound in Galena. You can pretty much find whatever you are looking for from a casual dining experience to a more formal dining experience. For our trip, we chose to have dinner Friday and Saturday in restaurants within walking distance of our hotel. The first night we ate at Market House restaurant, a building that was completed in 1848. The food was delicious and very affordable. Our Saturday meal was eaten at the Embe Eatery. Located less than a block from our hotel, the food was homecooked and very good. And we finished off our meal with warm, homemade bread pudding! Delicious! We would highly recommend a visit to Galena. If you're a history buff, you'll love all that Galena has to offer. If you enjoy good food and shopping, Galena fits the bill. Whether you are looking for an adventure filled getaway spot, or a more low key spot, Galena has a lot to offer! Have you been to Galena? Are you interested? Let us know in the comments. We would love to hear from you.

The north country trail is the longest National Scenic Trail in America. It runs 4800 miles from Vermont to North Dakota. 220 of those miles run through Northern Wisconsin. That's basically in our backyard, so we decided to do a quick section hike one weekend. We started out by reserving a site at a national forest campground and parking our car there. The goal was to backpack in several miles on the North Country Trail, stay overnight, and then hike back to our car. The hike we did is a 7.5 mile hike starting at Beaver Lake Campground and heading West towards old grade road. This is one of the most difficult and strenuous sections of the North Country Trail in Wisconsin. The hike can be challenging at times due to some elevation changes. Don't let that stop you though. The hike is well worth it. Not only will you get to experience the magic of the Northwoods, there are also several overlooks along this section, as well as an Old Swedish Settlement . If you enjoy history, there is a lot to take in at the Old Swedish Settlement. There are remnants of the settlement scattered throughout the area. This includes the foundation of a barn, the remains of a school, as well as a spring house that still houses a freshwater spring. We did our hike in late September to avoid the insects. This hike can be pretty brutal during the summer months due to swarms of mosquitoes and black flies. Having hiked this several times during warmer months, we knew that a fall trip would be better. The weather was perfect, and we had no issues with bugs. All in all, it was the perfect weather for the hike. A few important notes for those venturing out in the fall. While temperatures were at a pleasant low 70s during the day, it did dip down below freezing at night, so pack accordingly. We both had mummy bags, and stocking caps to help retain heat during the night. It's also important to keep in mind that there is a heavy population of black bears in the Chequamegon so make sure you know how to hang a bear bag. They are gearing up for hibernation during the fall and all food needs to be stored away from camp in a bear hang. If you enjoy backpacking, and only have a limited time, we highly suggest the North Country Trail Segment in the Chequamegon. It's easy to do in a weekend, and there are lots of great things to see. If you don't have enough time to do a full blown backpacking trip, you can always do a day hike into the Swedish settlement. Park along Forest Road 202 (Old Grade Road) east of Drummond. There is a small parking area and the trail is well marked. Happy Hiking!

When hiking, it's always important to have food along for needed energy. Especially if you are doing a long or strenuous hike. We tend to gravitate towards dehydrated fruits and jerky. But another favorite, is peanut butter energy balls. They are simple to make and can be customized to suit your tastes. Not only are they tasty, but they deliver quick energy on the trail. I like to keep a batch of these sealed and in the freezer for easy grab and go the morning of a hike. You can make these with simple ingredients that you most likely have in your pantry right now. Ingredients: 1 cup natural peanut butter (or any other nut butter) slightly melted 1/3 cup honey or pure maple syrup 2 cups old fashioned oats 1 tsp sea salt 1 tsp vanilla extract 1/4 cup dried fruits 1/4 cup chocolate chips (mini works best) 2 TBS chia seeds To make: Melt your peanut butter until it's slightly runny. Combine peanut butter, honey, oats, salt and vanilla extract in a large bowl. Mix well Add in your fruit, chocolate chips, and chia seeds. Mix again. Place your mixture in the fridge for 10 minutes While the mixture is in the fridge, line a large baking sheet with parchment paper Remove mixture from fridge, and form mixture into 1 inch balls. Drop on baking sheet Freeze for 1-2 hours, then place in a bag and vacuum seal This recipe makes 24 1 inch protein balls You can customize this recipe in many different ways. I often use dried cranberries, but you could use raisins, dried currants, mango chunks, cherries, or any other dried fruit you prefer. You can add coconut flakes and cocoa powder for a different taste. I've also made these with the addition of pepitas, or chopped pecans. The sky is the limit. Let me know if you try this recipe and what you think of it!