Join us for a series of naturalist-led hikes on the landscape that inspired Frank Lloyd Wright. This hike will highlight southwestern Wisconsin’s geology, flora, and fauna as you take in the fresh air and scenic views.

In his essay, “Why I Love Wisconsin,” Wright wrote,

“And I come back from the distant, strange and beautiful places that I used to read about when I was a boy, and wonder about; yes, every time I come back here it is with the feeling there is nothing anywhere better than this is. More dramatic elsewhere, perhaps more strange, more thrilling, more grand, too, but nothing that picks you up in its arms and so gently, almost lovingly, cradles you as do these southwestern Wisconsin hills.”

The rolling hills and valleys that define southwestern Wisconsin are here because the glacier wasn’t. This landscape is without drift, the soil and gravel deposits the glaciers left behind. And thus, this un-glaciated place is called the Driftless Area. As Mike and Grace guide folks through the trail system developed on the estate, come along with us and learn why these are such an important piece of the estate and public access.

We work in concert with the Frank Lloyd Wright Foundation—to turn back the hands of time so the woodlands, oak savannas, and prairies can once again thrive. 

Free and open to the public. Registration required.

Join us for this three-part series

Wednesday, May 25 Prescribed Fires in the Spring | Welsh Hills Trail at 4 pm (easy)

Wednesday, August 24 The Lower WI Riverway | Phoebe Point 4 pm (intermediate)

Wednesday, October 5 Prairie Botany | Welsh Hills Prairie 4 pm (difficult)

Grace Vosen and Mike Degan

About the Guides:

Mike Degen is the Natural Landscape Manager for the Frank Lloyd Wright Foundation at Taliesin in Spring Green, WI.  He received his Bachelor of Science degree in Conservation Biology from the University of Wisconsin, Eau Claire, in 1980 and spent 30-years with the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources.

Grace Vosen is a conservation educator specializing in prairies. She serves as a Master Naturalist Instructor for The Prairie Enthusiasts. Grace grew up on the eastern edge of the Driftless Area and is a graduate of Northland College and is a tour guide for Taliesin Preservation’s Driftless Landscape Tour.