2024 Adventure Challenge in Wisconsin state parks

The 2024 Adventure Challenge offers a variety of activities suitable for all ages that promote getting outdoors and enjoying Wisconsin’s State Parks. Activities are organized by age group, with options for children ages 3-5, 6-8, 9 and older, and adventures for an entire family. Activities include making leaf rubbings, identifying animal tracks, hiking, camping, identifying trees and insects, and much more. To participate, visit the website or download the app, choose an adventure, and go. Once a task is completed, you can register and mark the challenge completed, celebrate it on social media, and enter to win prizes. There is no fee to participate but a state park sticker is required.

Urban Ecology Center Summer Programming

The Urban Ecology Center has several fun outdoor activities and programs for active children and families. The paddling programs include kayaking for beginners and beginner and intermediate canoeing. Families can learn camping basics and take guided bike rides. UEC also offers classes and workshops like botany walks, foodie workshops, and ecology-based programs. In addition, UEC offers several Summer Camp options for kids and ongoing weekend programming and events connecting families to nature.

Geocaching

Geocaching is a fun way to get kids outdoors and active. It requires strategic thinking and problem-solving, as well as the use of technology which we know kids love. To start, open the App Store on your mobile device, search for and download the Geocaching App. Once you register and enter your location, the map will show you dozens of geocaches near your home. All you do is click on one of the geocache icons on the map, navigate to the address listed, read the description or clue, and begin your search. Some are simple to find while others can be more challenging. Once you’ve found the geocache, mark it as “Found” and leave a comment on a message board. The app is free, but you can upgrade for a fee to access additional locations and functionality. Get the Geocaching App here.

Ride One of These Popular Southeast Wisconsin Bike Trails

We’re lucky to have access to many bike trails in Southeast Wisconsin, offering rides through urban settings and nature alike and great for all ages and skill levels. Our go-to is the Ozaukee Interurban Trail. The asphalt trail spans 30 miles between Mequon and Sheboygan, adjacent to an old railway. You’ll travel through wetlands, over the Milwaukee River, and by a lighthouse along Lake Michigan in Port Washington. There are many spots to stop and rest. We love to pack a picnic and make a day of it. The Glacial Drumlin Trail is another great option. It spans over 50 miles between Waukesha and Cedar Grove. The trail has a mix of asphalt, crushed stone, and gravel. Along the way, you’ll experience nature, ride by a golf course, and a few small towns and waterways. With the number of trails in our area, you’re sure to find something close to home. Here is a comprehensive list of trails in SE Wisconsin.

Sidewalk Chalk Art, Games and Activities

Sidewalk chalk can provide hours of fun for your kids outdoors. Over the years, sidewalk chalk has graduated from a tool for simple driveway art to a means to create elaborate obstacle courses, games, and activities, for your family and the entire neighborhood. Experiment by creating a chalk obstacle course in your street, inviting families out for their daily walk to participate. You’ll be surprised how many people will join in on the fun, providing you with some extra viewing entertainment as they walk by. There are several online resources with great ideas. We like 101 Genius Sidewalk Chalk Ideas to Crush Summertime Boredom.

Go Fishing

There are many places to take the family fishing within a short drive from your home. Our Family Fishing Resource Guide covers everything you need to get started including how to get your fishing license, the equipment you’ll need, and where to go to catch the big one. If you’re a beginner and don’t want to invest in equipment, our guide provides options for free equipment rental.

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