Know the North Shore: Mequon Nature Preserve

The Mequon Nature Preserve is a 510-acre natural oasis located in the heart of the Milwaukee metropolitan area.

This natural space offers families a perfect escape into Wisconsin's beautiful woodlands, wetlands, and prairies It features 6 miles of trails that are free and open from sunup to sundown every day of the year, welcoming both families and their four-legged companions. This hidden gem provides an excellent opportunity for outdoor adventure, environmental education, and quality family time just minutes from the city.

History

The City of Mequon, in partnership with the Ozaukee Washington Land Trust and the Greater Milwaukee Foundation, founded the Mequon Nature Preserve with the first parcel purchased in 2002 and the most recent purchase in 2017. The preserve's origin story is particularly heartwarming - Richard Paddock, looking out from his Alexian Village apartment in 2000, saw woods and fields stretching north and said, "It would be good to save a little land," setting in motion an effort that has saved almost a square mile for future generations.

What makes this preserve special is its mission of restoration. The organization carries out a comprehensive stewardship program including removal of invasive species, management of existing forest remnants, and restoration of a beech maple forest and wetlands that existed prior to European settlement. Visitors today can witness this ongoing transformation from former agricultural land back to its natural state.

Trail System & Features

Trail Network

The preserve offers over six miles of trail loops that wind through diverse ecosystems including woodlands, wetlands, prairies, and open fields. The trail system is designed to accommodate visitors of all ages and abilities, making it perfect for families with children ranging from toddlers to teenagers.

Key Attractions

• 40-Foot Observation Tower: A spectacular 40-foot observation tower provides panoramic views of the preserve and surrounding landscape

• All-Natural Playspace: The preserve features an all-natural playspace where children can explore and play in an unstructured outdoor environment

• Education Center: A dedicated education center serves as a hub for learning activities and programs

• Wildlife Viewing: Visitors can observe birds, snakes, frogs, butterflies, caterpillars, fish, salamanders, and more throughout the preserve

Great Blue Herons can be found at Mequon Nature Preserve

Birdwatching Paradise

The preserve has been identified by the Cornell Lab of Ornithology as an eBird hotspot, making it an excellent destination for families interested in birdwatching and nature observation.

Educational Programs & Activities

School Programs

MNP provides free hands-on science field trips to thousands of Milwaukee area school children, with over 3,000 children visiting annually. The comprehensive outdoor science program serves 5,000 K-12 students annually, making it one of the region's premier environmental education destinations.

Family Programming

Seasonal events take place every year at MNP that are free and family-friendly. The preserve works to instill environmental empathy and action into surrounding communities by providing free events and programming. These programs are designed to engage visitors of all ages in hands-on learning about local ecosystems, wildlife, and conservation efforts.

Research and Monitoring

Various monitoring and research projects are carried out at MNP, with staff dedicated to restoring the land, educating people of all ages on the environment, and monitoring the presence of different flora and fauna species. Families can sometimes observe these scientific activities during their visits, providing real-world examples of environmental stewardship.

Family-Friendly Features

Accessibility

The preserve is designed with families in mind, offering trails suitable for various ages and abilities. The wide, well-maintained paths make it easy for families to explore together, whether pushing a stroller or accommodating different walking speeds.

Pet-Friendly

The preserve is dog-friendly, with trails open to leashed dogs. It’s perfect for families who want to bring their pets along for the outdoor adventure.

Tilia has been working hard at the Mequon Nature Preserve, sniffing out invasive garlic mustard and wild parsnip, as well as native blue-spotted salamanders, eastern tiger salamanders, and wood turtles.

Year-Round Access

Open 365 days a year from sunrise to sunset at no cost, the preserve offers seasonal variety that keeps families coming back throughout the year. Each season brings different wildlife viewing opportunities, from spring wildflowers to winter animal tracking.

Practical Information

Hours & Admission

• Hours: Sunrise to sunset, 365 days per year

• Admission: Completely free

• Parking: Available on-site, 8200 W County Line Rd, Mequon, WI 53097

What to Bring

• Comfortable walking shoes

• Water bottles

• Camera for wildlife photography

• Binoculars for birdwatching

• Weather-appropriate clothing

• Leash for dogs

Best Times to Visit

• Spring: Wildflower blooms and migrating birds

• Summer: Full canopy and active wildlife

• Fall: Spectacular foliage colors

• Winter: Animal tracking and peaceful snow-covered trails

Educational Value

The preserve's award-winning environmental educators are proud to offer everyone free educational programs. Families can enhance their visit by participating in guided programs or using the preserve's educational resources to learn about local ecosystems, conservation efforts, and the important work of habitat restoration.

The Mequon Nature Preserve represents more than just a place to hike - it's a living classroom where families can witness environmental restoration in action, observe diverse wildlife, and connect with nature in meaningful ways. All programs and activities are funded by charitable contributions, making this truly a community treasure that depends on public support and appreciation.

Whether you're looking for a peaceful family walk, an educational adventure, or simply a place to escape the hustle and bustle of city life, the Mequon Nature Preserve offers something special for every family member.