Date Archives: February 2022

Middleton is a great backdrop for outdoor adventures throughout all Wisconsin seasons. A Wisconsin favorite, snowshoeing, is a great way to explore the beautiful scenery and snowy landscapes. With the expansive beauty of the Pheasant Branch Conservancy, as well as the purpose-built trails and amenities at the new CXC Outdoor Recreation and Sports Center, you have outstanding options for snowshoeing close to home. Our real estate agents have the info you need to explore snowshoeing trails in Middleton this winter.

Pheasant Branch Conservancy – 4864 Pheasant Branch Rd., Middleton, WI 53562

With 519 acres of wetlands and forests to explore around the scenic Pheasant Branch Creek, the Pheasant Branch Conservancy is a popular destination for outdoor adventures all year long. Buyers interested in Middleton homes for sale often cite these outdoor areas as a great benefit to living near Middleton.

• Variety of Terrain on the Snowshoeing Trail
  Whether you love to explore nature or you're looking for a fun challenge on your next snowshoeing trip, the varying terrain at Pheasant Branch Conservancy makes for a unique experience each time you visit. Changes in elevation allow you to see Middleton from different perspectives, and the mix of wetlands, forest, and groomed trails means that you'll see a variety of natural habitats as you explore.
  
  
• Great Views and Local Wildlife
  Part of the snowshoeing trail at Pheasant Branch Conservancy will lead you up Frederick's Hill, where you will find some of the best views in Middleton. From the top of the hill, you can even see Wisconsin's state capitol! The conservancy also features plenty of local wildlife, so you never know what you might see when you visit.
  
  
• Take Care While Exploring Pheasant Branch Conservancy
  Because Pheasant Branch Conservancy is a protected area, there is always nature conservation work happening in the area. For this reason, it's important to stick to the dedicated trails while snowshoeing in order to avoid interfering with that conservation work.

CXC Outdoor Recreation and Sports Center – 4355 Schwartz Rd., Middleton, WI 53562

A new addition to the Middleton area, which opened in December 2021, the CXC Outdoor Recreation and Sports Center is already drawing rave reviews. This is the perfect place to enjoy some snowshoeing, along with other fun winter activities like cross country skiing and fat-tire biking.

• Outdoor Exploration All Winter Long
  The CXC Outdoor Recreation and Sports Center is open for winter sports from mid-December through the end of March with daily hours from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM.
  
  
• New Trails and Snowmaking Capability
  This facility features a mix of natural snow trails and trails with snowmaking capability. So even if nature isn't providing snow, you can still enjoy some winter fun on the dedicated snowshoeing trail. Since it's a new facility, new trails are being added regularly.

Before you head out for your next snowshoeing trip, check the trail conditions. The CXC Outdoor Recreation and Sports Center website features daily updates on trail conditions, as well as frequent updates on any new trails. While they aren't dedicated snowshoeing trails, many of the shorter trails at other local parks around Middleton are also open for snowshoeing.

Ready to buy or sell your next home close to all of the Middleton outdoor adventures? We can help you accomplish your real estate goals. Contact us to buy and sell homes in the Middleton, WI area.

• Olbrich Botanical Gardens - 3330 Atwood Ave., Madison, WI 53704
  With 16 acres containing an incredible assortment of plants and flowers, Olbrich Botanical Gardens is the equivalent of a visual amusement park. Global delights such as the Thai Pavilion, the only one in the continental United States, and the Bolz Conservatory, a 50-foot glass pyramid replicating the vegetation of the tropics, can instantly transport your mindset. Other specialty gardens include the Rose Garden, Sunken Garden, and Herb Garden. Grow your green thumb with classes, workshops, and lectures. Admission to the Conservatory is $6, but the outdoor gardens are free, though donations are gratefully accepted. Hours are 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. daily.
  
  
• Chazen Museum of Art - University of Wisconsin, 750 University Ave., Madison, WI 53706
  Located on the University of Wisconsin-Madison campus, just blocks away from Lake Mendota, the Chazen Museum of Art is stunning. Its two buildings hold approximately 23,000 pieces, making it the second-largest collection in the state and the largest collecting museum in the Big Ten. Cultures and periods represented include ancient Greece, 18th-century Japan, and modern Africa. The visiting exhibition, Seeing Audubon: Robert Havell, Jr., and the Birds of America, will be on display through the first quarter of 2022. Admission is free to the public. Hours are 10 a.m. - 7 p.m. on weekdays and 11 a.m. - 5 p.m. on weekends.
  
  
• Henry Vilas Zoo - 702 S. Randall Ave., Madison, WI 54715
  A trip to the Henry Vilas Zoo is a treat for "kids" of all ages. The park sits on land donated by Col. William and Anna Vilas in honor of their young son, the zoo's namesake, who died due to complications from diabetes. In an act of further generosity, they stipulated that the land be used for a park that would remain free to the public. Henry Vilas is one of only ten zoos in North America where visitors can see more than 650 animals from around the world for no admission fee. The zoo is open seven days a week from 9:30 - 5 p.m and is a delightful stop in Downtown Madison.
  
  
• Madison Eats Food Tours - Madison, WI
  Our local culinary game is strong. Surprise your senses with Madison Eats Food Tours, which highlight Madison's longtime favorites and trendy new spots. Each tour theme focuses on a specific cuisine or neighborhood, creating an immersive experience. Current tours include Capitol Square Downtown, Atwood Brew & Chew, and Bike n' Bites. For the adventurous diner, Madison Eats also offers international culinary tours to places like Mexico and Belize. Local tours run for approximately three hours. Visit the website for schedule and prices.
  
  
• University of Wisconsin Geology Museum - Weeks Hall, 1215 W. Dayton St., Madison, WI 53706
  Dinosaurs of all shapes and sizes delight visitors of all ages. Spend an educational day disguised as fun with your family at the University of Wisconsin Geology Museum. Exhibits featuring more than 120,000 specimens will take you back to the times when the state was variously covered with ice, water, and volcanoes. Admission is free to the public. Museum hours are 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday and 9 a.m. - 1 p.m. Saturday.

Making the most of life in Dane County is what Stark agents love to do and what we love to share with our community. For dedicated and knowledgeable help buying or selling a home, contact us at Stark Company Realtors.