Schlitz Audubon Nature Center Entices With Incredible Nature on Milwaukee Hiking Trails

Schlitz Audubon Nature Center Invites Hikers To Explore Many Habitats

Schlitz Audubon Nature Center nestled along Lake Michigan just north of Milwaukee invites visitors to explore a variety of hiking trails experiencing a number of ecosystems. Schlitz Audubon is an important bird watching site and provides a vibrant habitat for migrant birds. During a recent summer afternoon, we explored several different trails admiring the environment and looking for birds and other wildlife!

Rustic path welcoming us to explore the forest of Schiltz Audubon.

We began our visit inside the nature center where we discovered live animal exhibits including turtles, snakes and a flying squirrel! Hands-on exhibits are geared towards children. The center sports a wonderful patio for sitting on. The nature store has plenty of nature items and guides to check out. The nature center is a green building, so visiting is an opportunity to learn about it conservation practices. Trails start nearby so after grabbing a map, we headed out.

Hiking the Trails at Schlitz Audubon Nature Center:

Overall, Schlitz Audubon Nature Center is home to six miles of trails that wind hikers to the forest, wetlands, prairies, ponds and the Lake Michigan shoreline. We love lake views, so we embarked on the Lake Michigan trail first! We quickly found ourselves in a heavily wooded area which was delightful on a hot and sunny day!

Rustic stairway down to the Lake Michigan Shoreline.

To get down to the lake, we did have to take some rustic stairs along the trail. At different points, you can hike down to the beach. Additionally, there are a few overlooks. While I was excited to see the lake, you could hear the glee of children as they approached the beach. Pure joy!

View of Lake Michigan from Schlitz Audubon Center 

How can you not pause for these views?

Most of the trail we hiked guided us through forest. However, we did meander a bit through prairie was well. Since we are at the height of summer, the prairie was teeming with butterflies particularly monarchs. We also so a number of toads.

Wildflowers adding even more magic

You may wonder a bit about the Schlitz name for the preserve. The land once was Uihlien Schlitz family property and was home to the draft horses that pulled beer wagons. Eventually, the property became a recreational site for Schlitz employees. In 1971, the property was donated to the National Audubon Society. Currently, the property is locally managed and works independently from the National Audubon Society. However, both organizations work in conjunction.

Hiking to Mystery Lake:

After hiking to the Lake Michigan shoreline and back, we headed out on a new trail towards Mystery Lake. We were in for a real treat!

Mystery Lake effortlessly engages the sense of wonderment.

A boardwalk hugs along Mystery Lake allowing you to virtually walk in the lake. Immediately, the lily pads elicited delight. However, we benefited by standing and observing a bit. Standing and observing, we noted a number of frogs. We also could hear a number of birds. A symphony of nature.

Mystery Lake is an interesting shape and we headed into another alcove that almost looked a little more scruffy.

The day was getting hot, so my hiking partners were ready to go. However, we agreed that we fell in love with the natural serenity at Schlitz Audubon Nature Center. With many more miles of trails to explore, we look forward to returning!


To Know About Schlitz Audubon Nature Center:

• There are plenty of spots to sit and enjoy nature.
• Some of the trails are wheelchair accessible allowing more to discover nature!
• Schlitz Audubon Preschool offers a unique curriculum for children. Also, check out youth education, adult education and summer camp offerings.
• Bring birding binoculars, water, sunscreen and insect repellent.
• Ok, bring a nice sack lunch too!
• Schlitz Audubon Nature Center also hosts weddings. Such a magical place to get married!
• There is an admission fee for non-members.