An Ecological Jewel in the Heart of the Kettle Moraine

Fox Hill Nature Preserve is a 128-acre preserve located in the heart of Wisconsin’s Kettle Moraine region between the State’s northern and southern forest units. This property has excellent glacial features, such as kames and moraines, which can be discovered on various geological and biological feature signs during a self-guided hike.

Fox Hill Nature Preserve has more than 5 miles of hiking, snowshoeing, and X-country ski trails, all for public enjoyment. The preserve also includes a native prairie with over 50 varieties of tall grass species, surrounded by mesic hardwood forests and wetlands.

In the springtime, the woods of the Fox Hill Nature Preserve are alive with flowers and bird song as the wildlife chorus returns to the land. In the upland forest are some of the finest ephemeral wetlands in Washington County. These ponds temporarily hold water in the spring and early summer and are critical for the successful breeding of amphibians and invertebrates. This is an ideal time and place to quietly listen for the calls of Spring Peepers.

In Autumn, take a walk on a crisp morning as the trees begin to dial up hues of gold and red. The prairie is ablaze with flowers, and the hillside maples and oaks are glowing with a changing palette. There are several old apple trees in the orchard; grab a heritage apple and take a bite of sunshine.

X-Country Skiing

Expertly groomed Cedar Lakes Conservation Foundation (CLCF) Nordic trails are located on the Preserve. The ancient kettle moraine landscape with its rolling terrain, combined with classic ski and skate lanes, allows you to cruise smoothly through the woods. Skiers are encouraged to join CLCF Nordic and purchase a season or daily pass.  

History

The Fox Hill Nature Preserve is comprised of five individual land parcels, purchased in 1992, 1993, 1995, 1998 and 2002. In 1999, Helen Klingler donated funds for CLCF to create a prairie in her husband’s memory. CLCF volunteers and staff have maintained the Klingler Prairie since its establishment. 

Parking

Parking is available at 4214 Sleeping Dragon Road, West Bend, WI 53095, which is approximately half a mile east of Highway NN.

There are trail markers and a trail map to help guide you on a hike through this ecological jewel. We hope to see you on the trails!


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