A Legacy of Conservation: The Past and Present of Wisconsin’s Wild SpacesDEADLINE TO REGISTER: 7/22/2026Minimum Participants: 3
Maximum Participants: 5
Host: Travel Wisconsin
Primary Contact: Logan Wroge,
[email protected]Who can attend & Cost: - Active, Senior, and Life Members (media) - $0
- Supporting group members (non-media, partners, speakers) - Not Eligible
- Spouses/partners -Not Eligible (Exceptions for spouses/partners may be made on a case-by-case scenario. Media are welcome to inquire further.)
ITINERARY (subject to change)Wisconsin is nearly half covered in forests, home to 15,000 inland lakes and crisscrossed with 84,000 miles of rivers and streams. The natural spaces of the state aren’t just a playground for outdoor enthusiasts. They’ve inspired pioneering minds in conservation and wilderness preservation like Aldo Leopold, John Muir and Gaylord Nelson. Join this road trip to trace the legacy and modern practices of conservation in Wisconsin while enjoying the state’s natural spaces yourself.
Note: The trip outline provides the dates of the FAM and the destinations and experiences anticipated to be included. The exact timing and activities on the FAM itinerary are subject to change. Check back for updates.
Day 1 | Tuesday, Aug. 25The trip will start by departing Madison for the Baraboo region north of the capital city. Defined by rocky outcroppings and rugged bluffs, the natural beauty of the region has influenced the past and present of global conservation efforts. Anchor activities for this day are anticipated to include:
• Visiting the Aldo Leopold Shack and Farm for a guided tour of the family retreat of the famed author and conservationist• Learning about modern conservation practices at the International Crane Foundation • Hiking the bluffs of Devil’s Lake State Park — Wisconsin’s most visited state park
Day 2 | Wednesday, Aug. 26The second day of this trip will explore the lush forests and running waters of the Stevens Point area. Located centrally in Wisconsin, Stevens Point is a recreational playground for outdoor enthusiasts. The local college, UW-Stevens Point, is renowned for its College of Natural Resources, which prepares future leaders in conservation, sustainability and resource management. Anchor activities for this day are anticipated to include:
• Biking the Green Circle Trail — a community-led and -funded trail circling the area for 27 miles• Paddling the Wisconsin River and sloughs of the area• Visiting Central Waters Brewing Co. to learn about one of the most environmentally sustainable breweries in the nation
Day 3 | Thursday, Aug. 27The third day of this trip will include a visit to the Horicon Marsh — North America’s largest freshwater cattail marsh and a critical stopping ground for the migration of Canada geese and ducks. Birders have documented more than 300 bird species at the marsh. The day will end with returning back to Madison. Anchor activities for this day are anticipated to include:
• A guided sightseeing tour of Horicon Marsh• Learning about modern efforts to protect and restore the jointly managed Horicon Marsh
Day 4 | Friday, Aug. 28This trip concludes in Madison. Attendees may book departing flights from the Dane County Regional Airport (MSN) to their next destination for any time on this day.
