Woodland Dunes offers six trails that allow visitors to explore the 1,200 acre preserve that includes woodlands, meadows and marshes. All trails are relatively level and easily hiked.; they range from 1/4 to 1 1/2 miles long. Two of the trails, Cattail and Yellow Birch, are wheelchair accessible boardwalks. In winter, trails are open for cross- country skiing, although not groomed. Trails are open from sunrise to sunset.

Trail guides can be picked up at the Nature Center office. They are also stocked in the metal mailbox on the wall by the entrance. On the orientation sign near the red barn you will find a large map showing the preserve and the trails.

TRAIL GUIDELINES

At Woodland Dunes we are seeking to protect a delicate but vital natural environment, not only for all the wildlife and plant species that live here, but for generations of families seeking a connection with the natural world. Please help us in our preservation efforts by following these simple rules.

Stay on the trail---Our forest floor and wetlands support many species of birds, animals and plants. If you venture off the path you may be harming a precious environment.

No pets---Domesticated animals can be very harmful to the wildlife and plants established in our natural area.

No bicycles, snowmobiles or other vehicles---Our trails are designed for the enjoyment of their unique natural surroundings. Slow down and take the time to observe the beauty of nature.

No smoking---Did you know that cigarette filters can be harmful to animals and birds?

Trails beginning at the Nature Center:

Willow Trail 0.9 mile---This trail passes through diverse habitats, starting with a shady shrub carr. After emerging from the cool shrub carr, you come out into an open meadow, which is a prairie restoration. It is particularly breathtaking from mid-summer to late fall. The Goldenrod Loop takes you around Todd's Pond, where you can pause to enjoy the peace and serenity of this wetland dedicated to a very special young man.
Continue along Willow Trail through meadows and shrubland ,then take the Horsetail Loop to visit the largest tree in Manitowoc County. The final part of the trail, about a quarter of a mile, takes you to the bank of the West Twin River, and an observation deck with an informative sign. See the big tree

Cattail Trail 0.3 mile---The whole family will enjoy this boardwalk that meanders through a shrub swamp, a sedge meadow and a cattail marsh where birds and wetland animals live or visit. Signs along this trail introduce you to the plants and animals found there.We are currently extending this trail; soon it will reach an branch of the West Twin River.

A trail beginning near the Nature Center:

Conifer Trail 0.5 mile---Conifer Trail starts about two blocks from the Nature Center, on Columbus Street. Signs on the west side of the road identify the trailhead. This unique trail follows two ancient beach ridges, crossing a swale in between. You will walk through a mixed hardwood forest. A special guide describing the habitats and trees found along the trail is available at the Nature Center. Signs along the trail provide information as well.

Trails beginning on Goodwin Road:

Yellow Birch Trail 0.3 mile---This wheelchair accessible boardwalk takes visitors through woods and wetland where many unusual birds, amphibians and plants can be seen.

Black Cherry Trail 0.8 mile, Trillium Trail 1.5 miles---A pair of wooded walks through the swales and ridges of an ancient beach. You'll pass though upland mixed hardwoods and a wooded swamp, and may see amphibians, birds and Canandian Carpet plants in summer. Several small bridges cross seasonally wet swales. Open for skiing in winter.