On two days each week, students hike through diverse ecosystems, learn how to record their observations and questions about the changing nature around them, engage in hands-on investigations with their peers, and make personal connections with the natural world. One of the unique features of Forest School is the depth of engagement available when meeting outside multiple times each week in fall, winter, and spring. Children are able to make deep, personal connections to nature that inspire life-long learning about stewardship of the natural world. Teachers plan a year-long scope and sequence of experiences that align with their objectives. Objectives are aligned with North American Association for Environmental Education, Wisconsin Standards for Environmental Literacy and Sustainability.

Cost per semester: $1,020

A $50 deposit is required upon registration to secure your child's spot for the semester. This deposit will count toward the $1,020 semester fee. 

Scholarships are available.

For more information, contact 920-839-2802.

This program is for caregivers and children who are walking through 3 years old. Tiny Trekkers is designed to create a foundation of love and respect for the natural world. Active play in nature between caregivers and children provides lasting impressions. Join a Ridges Sanctuary educator in gentle hiking, songs, and endless possibilities for exploration and experimentation.

This program is for caregivers and children who are walking through 3 years old. Tiny Trekkers is designed to create a foundation of love and respect for the natural world. Active play in nature between caregivers and children provides lasting impressions. Join a Ridges Sanctuary educator in gentle hiking, songs, and endless possibilities for exploration and experimentation.

Join a naturalist for an in-depth exploration of The Ridges Sanctuary. We’ll head out on the trails to learn about its history, the unique features of its diverse habitats, and what makes the Sanctuary the most biologically diverse area in Wisconsin!

This 90-minute, in-depth guided hike includes a tour of our Upper Range Light, which has been restored to the period of the last Range Light Keeper. Suitable for all ages. 

Join a naturalist for an in-depth exploration of The Ridges Sanctuary. We’ll head out on the trails to learn about its history, the unique features of its diverse habitats, and what makes the Sanctuary the most biologically diverse area in Wisconsin!

This 90-minute, in-depth guided hike includes a tour of our Upper Range Light, which has been restored to the period of the last Range Light Keeper. Suitable for all ages. 

Explore The Ridges Sanctuary with our Naturalists and discover what plants in and around Door County might be used to create different flavor profiles when brewing beer. After walking the Sanctuary trails and discussing some nature-inspired brews, we will head over to Sway Brewing to learn about the beer making process.

Program fee includes a Ridges Pint Glass and Brewery pour. Must be 21 or older to participate.

Join a naturalist for an in-depth exploration of The Ridges Sanctuary. We’ll head out on the trails to learn about its history, the unique features of its diverse habitats, and what makes the Sanctuary the most biologically diverse area in Wisconsin!

This 90-minute, in-depth guided hike includes a tour of our Upper Range Light, which has been restored to the period of the last Range Light Keeper. Suitable for all ages. 

Like our Night Hikes but earlier! Join us for an evening hike to learn all about dusk happenings at The Ridges and walk our trails during the golden hour. We will learn about the creatures that become active around sunset. This program is perfect for families and those who don’t want to stay out too late. Please do not bring any flashlights, light-up shoes, etc. as we want our eyes to adjust to the dark and to be able to see just as the animals do at night. Suitable for all ages.

There are TWO night hikes offered per Friday. Please be sure to check the DATE and TIME of the hike you are registering for. Evening Hikes are offered at an earlier time than Night Hikes.