Fall Hikes: Creating Meaningful Moments

I discovered a new-to-me hiking spot. When I walked up to the Bubolz Nature Preserve I had an inkling that this would be a neat new place for the two of us to explore together. A place where we could have fun, talk a little and connect with each other and nature.

I couldn’t wait to share the preserve with my kiddo…well, not so much a kiddo anymore. He towers over me and eats enough for a football team. As he hurtles toward 13, the number of things we can do together seems to be shrinking faster than the Fortnite storm circle.

Bubolz Nature Preserve. Fall Hikes: Creating Meaningful Moments
There are trails for all abilities at the Bubolz Nature Preserve

In the past, I’ve tried to cram “fall things” in. I loved, we loved, doing them. Autumn, and Halloween specifically, has been our favorite time of year. Trick or treating, pumpkins patches, corn mazes. They were all fun, but we did so many of them we didn’t have many down moments to just connect.

This year, part voluntarily and part because P is exploring more on his own, I’m setting the stage for family connection with an autumn fall hike. Spontaneous or planned, hikes are a favorite way to connect with my son. Short hikes mean he won’t have to choose between friends and family. Trails are a setting where he won’t feel like he’s too cool to be with mom. Nobody can see us goofing around. Nobody can see him (gasp) having fun with his family. Choosing a technology-free activity makes it more likely that my rapidly growing almost man-boy will talk with me. And I will soak up every syllable I can get.

Fall Hikes: Creating Meaningful Moments

Looking for Great Walks in Northeast Wisconsin?

Going on a hike doesn’t have to mean mountains and clunky hiking boots. Some of my favorite hikes have been in what I call “curated” wilderness with groomed trails, educational signs, and short trails. We have a ton of these light hiking opportunities in Northeast Wisconsin!

Bubolz Nature Preserve

Barkhausen Waterfowl Preserve

Reforestation Camp

Baird Creek

UW- Green Bay Arboretum

Osprey Point

Bay Beach Wildlife 

So walk slowly, let your tween lead the way, and don’t forget to bring binocs, water bottles, and a snack or two.

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