9. Explore The Ridges

Explore The Ridges Sanctuary

Address: 8166 Hwy 57, Baileys Harbor, WI 54202

Directions: From Sturgeon Bay, take WI-57 N toward Baileys Harbor. The Ridges Sanctuary is located just north of downtown Baileys Harbor.

Cost: Free - $ (Donations welcome; fees for guided tours) 

Duration: 1-2 hours 

Seasonality: All seasons, with peak flora and fauna visibility from late spring through summer

Description: Immerse yourself in the natural wonder of The Ridges Sanctuary, Wisconsin’s first land trust and one of the state's most biologically diverse ecosystems. Since its founding in 1937, The Ridges has been a bastion of conservation, safeguarding a unique ridge-swale complex that stretches across 1,600 acres of pristine landscape.

What to Explore:

  • Trails and Biodiversity: Wander through a network of trails where over 500 species of plants flourish under the canopy of a densely shaded conifer forest. The sanctuary’s trails lead adventurers through varying environments—from breezy open beaches to lush forests—hosting 60 species of birds and numerous rare fauna.
  • Endangered Species: Keep an eye out for the Hine’s Emerald dragonfly and the Dwarf Lake Iris, both threatened species that find refuge within this sanctuary. The Ridges is a critical habitat for these and about a dozen other endangered or threatened plant species in Wisconsin.
  • Historical Lighthouses: Visit the two range lighthouses, historic maritime beacons that have guided ships into Baileys Harbor since the sanctuary's early days. These lights, originally lit by lanterns and now electric, are maintained by The Ridges Sanctuary and offer a glimpse into the maritime history of the area.

Note: The Ridges Sanctuary is a protected area focused on conservation and education. Visitors are encouraged to respect the trails and natural habitats. Guided tours are available and recommended in order to fully appreciate the ecological and historical significance of the sanctuary. Check the visitor center for tour schedules and special events.

Highlight: Each trail at The Ridges tells a different story, revealing the geological history and ecological evolution of the area through the succession of ridge lines and swales—ancient shorelines formed by the fluctuating water levels of Lake Michigan.

Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a bird watcher, or a history buff, The Ridges Sanctuary offers a rich, educational outdoor experience, allowing you to connect deeply with the natural world and the efforts to preserve it.