I’m Back — And We’re Hiking Twice This Week!

Hey friends,

I’ll be honest, life got a little full. Between website updates, book work, and planning some big adventures for this year, the last few weeks slipped away faster than I expected. But I’m back, my hiking boots are by the door, and I have not one but TWO hikes happening this week, and I want you at both.

Friday Morning — Upper Yahara River Trail, DeForest

We’re kicking off the weekend early! This Friday, March 20th, we’re doing a 7-mile in-and-out on the Upper Yahara River Trail, starting at Sunfish Pond at 8:00 AM.

This trail follows the meandering Yahara River through gorgeous woodland, boardwalks, and wetlands — it’s one of those hikes that feels like a real escape even though it’s right in our backyard. And the best part? Dogs are welcome on this one! So leash up your pup and bring them along.

What to bring:

• 🥾 Comfortable walking shoes not hiking boots
• 💧 At least 1 liter of water
• 🐾 Friendly dogs are allowed

Saturday Morning — Devil’s Lake State Park

The adventure continues! Saturday, March 21st, we’re meeting at the Roznos Meadow Trailhead Parking Lot at 9:00 AM for a group hike at Devil’s Lake. Because it’s early March and conditions on those bluffs can be unpredictable, we’ll assess the trails together when we arrive and pick our route as a group. That’s part of the adventure — and it means we make the best call for everyone’s safety on the day.

Here’s what to pack:

• 🥾 Waterproof boots (non-negotiable, expect mud and wet sections)
• 🌧️ Rain gear (even on a warm day, the bluffs can surprise you)
• 💧 At least 2 liters of water
• 🍎 Snacks to keep your energy up

Wisconsin spring is calling — let’s answer it together.

⚠️ By joining this hike, you acknowledge that you are participating at your own risk. Please ensure you are physically prepared for the distance and terrain.

Gear Spotlight: The Sock Upgrade Your Feet Have Been Waiting For

Before you lace up for Saturday, let’s talk about what’s going on inside your boots.

I hike in Injinji toe socks on every single trail, and here’s why I’m obsessed. Each toe gets its own sleeve, eliminating skin-on-skin friction. No blisters. No hot spots. Just happy feet all the way to the summit.

I carry two kinds depending on the season: For this Saturday’s hike, I’m reaching for the Trail Midweight Crew. It’s cushioned, keeps debris out, and holds up on rocky, muddy terrain like Devil’s Lake in early spring. This is my go-to when conditions are unpredictable.

👉 Shop Trail Midweight Crew

Come summer, I switch to the Liner Crew. Ultra-thin, moisture-wicking, and they layer perfectly under any boot on warmer days.

👉 Shop Liner Crew

Affiliate disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. I only recommend gear I personally use and love.

Track Every State Park You Conquer

Speaking of state parks, if hiking Devil’s Lake gets you fired up about exploring more of Wisconsin’s incredible parks, I have just the thing.

Our 50 Wisconsin State Parks Scratch-Off Poster is designed for adventurers like you. Every time you visit a new state park, you scratch it off and watch your Wisconsin adventure map come to life. It makes a perfect gift too — and right now, buy 2 posters and get a children’s book free automatically at checkout!

👉 Grab your Wisconsin Scratch-Off Poster here — $25

Meanwhile, I’ll Be at the River House…

Right after the hike, I’m heading into spring break mode — and honestly, I cannot wait. We’re spending the week at our river house, and I’m planning to forest bathe every single day while working through modules toward my forest bathing certification. Rest, nature, and leveling up all at once. That’s my kind of break.

This Summer — 2 Spots Left in Africa

This August, I’m leading a women-only journey to the 4 Corners of Africa — Zimbabwe, Zambia, Botswana, and South Africa. We’re talking Victoria Falls, a Chobe National Park safari, whitewater rafting on the Zambezi, and 4 bonus nights in Cape Town. Our second group has just 2 spots remaining.

If Africa has been on your someday list, this is your sign. 👉 Grab one of the last 2 spots here

This Weekend in Madison

Not joining us on the trail? Here’s what else is happening around town this weekend:

• Tiara’s Hat Parade — Children’s Theater of Madison’s latest production runs through Sunday, March 22, at Madison Youth Arts. Based on a beloved kids’ picture book — perfect for the whole family.
• Arboretum Volunteer Morning — Saturday, 9 AM–Noon at Wingra Woods. Meet at the Wingra Springs parking lot and give back to one of Madison’s most beautiful natural spaces.

Important — Please Read Before You Join Us

I am so excited to hike with you, and your safety is my top priority. However, please note that all participants join these hikes at their own risk.

By participating in any Wisconsin Adventure Family group hike, you acknowledge and agree that:

• You are voluntarily participating in an outdoor physical activity
• You are responsible for assessing your own physical fitness and ability for the hike
• Trail conditions may be unpredictable, uneven, slippery, or hazardous
• Wisconsin Adventure Family and its organizers, including Dini Dowd, are not liable for any injury, accident, loss, or damage that may occur during the hike or during travel to and from the event
• You are responsible for your own safety, your children’s safety, and your pet’s safety at all times
• Participants with pre-existing medical conditions should consult their physician before joining

See you Saturday at Roznos Meadow!

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