Spring is Here and So Are We — Trails, Events & Africa Calls

Happy Weekend, beautiful souls!

Another week of showing up for ourselves, and I am so grateful for it. Spring is finally doing what spring is supposed to do — the mornings are warmer, the garden is calling, and my neighborhood walks have been absolutely beautiful this week. I have been soaking up every drop of vitamin D I can get, and I hope you have been too. Even ten minutes outside counts. Do not let this weekend pass you by.

Trail of the Week: Ice Age Trail — Lodi Segment

This trail has my whole heart. This week, I headed out to the Lodi Segment with a very special group of women — the crew that is joining me in the Dolomites, Italy, this June. We walked 9 miles together through the hills and the trees, and I cannot even put into words how perfect the day was. This is exactly why I do what I do.

If you are looking for a trail near Madison that will actually challenge you without destroying your knees — this is it. The Lodi Segment gains about 1,200 feet of elevation. It is hilly and wooded and stunning in spring, and it is completely pet-friendly, so bring your dog.

Starting point: Ice Age Trail — Lodi Segment, Springfield Road, Lodi, WI. Pet friendly — leash required. Approximately 1,200 feet of elevation gain. We did 9 miles — make it as long or short as you need. Perfect spring training trail

Gear I Am Loving Right Now

Wisconsin spring weather is not to be trusted — and this jacket is exactly why I stopped worrying about it.

I have been wearing the Helly Hansen Eco Shell, and I am obsessed. It is lightweight, fully waterproof, and it moves with you on the trail without feeling stiff or bulky. The color is gorgeous — I get compliments every single time I wear it. Whether I am leading a hike in light rain or layering up for an early morning walk, this jacket does the job beautifully. This is the kind of gear that makes you want to get outside even when the forecast looks questionable.

Go one size up, and if you are always on adventures like me, it’s on sale, take advantage. Shop the Helly Hansen Eco Shell here

3 Free Outdoor Events Around Wisconsin This Weekend

1. Phelps Maple Syrup Fest — Saturday, April 11 | Phelps, WI Sweet treats, free sugarbush tours, tap your own sap, and a craft show. The kind of family day that costs nothing and creates memories that last. phelpswi.us/event/maple-syrup-fest

2. Guided Birding Walk at Havenwoods State Forest — Saturday, April 11 | Milwaukee, WI A free, informal guided walk spotting and identifying birds as you go. A beautiful way to introduce little ones to nature and wildlife right in the city. dnr.wisconsin.gov/events

3. Friends of Devil’s Lake Stewardship Workday — Saturday, April 11 | Devil’s Lake State Park, Baraboo, WI Give back to one of Wisconsin’s most beloved state parks. Bring the family, get your hands in the earth, and leave the park better than you found it. dnr.wisconsin.gov/events

Join Us Sunday — Drakensberg Info Call | 7:00 PM EST

Have you been curious about the Drakensberg, South Africa, trip in March 2027? This Sunday, April 12th, at 7:00 PM Central, I am hosting a casual 40-minute Zoom call to chat about this adventure. You do not have to commit to anything — you can just come and listen. No pressure, just good conversation about one of the most breathtaking mountain ranges in the world.

This one is close to my heart. The Drakensberg is home. Come find out why. Sunday, April 12 · 7:00 – 7:40 PM CT Join here: https://meet.google.com/zaw-nnvs-uuy

(save the date)Women’s Day Celebration!

This one is special. On Saturday, May 9th, we are walking the full 21-mile loop around Lake Geneva together, and I want you there, mamas.

This is our 3rd annual Women’s Day celebration, and there is nothing quite like it. 15 to 18 women, fast walkers and slow walkers, all moving at their own pace and cheering each other on. We start together, and we finish together. That is how we do things.

Starting point: Big Foot State Park Start time: 8:00 AM sharp — please be on time so we finish before dark Lunch stop: Williams Bay at noon Distance: 21 miles full loop Pace: approximately 3 miles per hour

What to bring: At least 2 liters of water Electrolytes and healthy snacks Tennis shoes or trail runners — about 60% of the route is pavement, leave the hiking boots at home Injinji toe liner socks with compression if you have them — trust me on this one Walking poles — great for circulation on a long day Rain gear — lake weather does what it wants

If you are only doing the first half, please arrange your own Uber or taxi back to Big Foot State Park. Consider booking a room or camping in downtown Lake Geneva Saturday night — you will have earned a slow Sunday morning.

Never walked this far before? I have a free 3-month training plan made just for this walk. Download it and start now — you still have time.

Download your free training plan here

Get the Kids Outside — Story Time with Dini

Spring is the perfect time to plant the seed of adventure in a little one. Two of my books perfect for this season are Adventure Day — a story about hiking and chasing waterfalls — and Spring Hiking, written for exactly this time of year. Both available on Amazon and as digital downloads on my website.

I am also available for school visits, library story times, and community events. Reply to this email to book me.Shop children’s books here

Wisconsin State Parks Scratch-Off Poster — $35 with Free Shipping

I hiked all 50 Wisconsin state parks — through snow, mud, golden fall mornings, and everything in between. That journey is why I made this poster. Every time you visit a new park, scratch off the foil and watch your map come alive. Handmade in the USA, ships in a protective tube. Only 28 left — and Mother’s Day is coming up fast.

Get yours here

Marinette County Waterfalls Guide — Just $4.99

Fifteen waterfalls. One weekend. Pack the car and go. Originally $7.99 — now just $4.99 as a digital download. Summer plans dont have to break the bank. Download the guide here

Four Corners of Africa — 2 Spots Left at This Price

Two spots remain for the Four Corners of Africa trip this August at $2,710. This price will not be here next year. If Africa has been calling you, now is the time. Reply to this email and let’s talk. Learn more here

Until next Friday,

Dini

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