Road Scholar : Home
Hike Northern Wisconsin and Michigan's Upper Peninsula Gems

Program Number: 17732RJ
Start and End Dates:
5/12/2013 - 5/18/2013; 9/22/2013 - 9/28/2013;
Duration: 6 nights
Location: Eagle River, Wisconsin
Price starting at: $599.00 - Price may vary based on date, departure city
Program Type: Walking/Hiking Activity Level: n (see description)
Meals: 15; 5 Breakfasts, 5 Lunches, 5 Dinners    
Meal Options: Vegetarian    

The dense forests of the Upper Peninsula of Michigan and Wisconsin conceal diverse wildlife and more than 1,500 lakes. Become familiar with this region on naturalist-led hikes among its spectacular natural resources. Learn about and see live education raptors up close, tread the old-growth forests of the region’s lake trails, and paddle on tranquil Silver Lake. Human perspectives on this remote corner of the U.S. emerge in discussions of its mining and logging heritage and in hands-on study of forest management techniques.




Highlights

• Get a first-hand look into forestry at Wisconsin's first red pine plantation study site.
• Search for loons and Bald Eagles during a canoeing excursion with a naturalist.
• Venture into the Northwoods bog habitat, and encounter dramatic geology during hikes in Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park.



Activity Particulars

Participants must be able to hike 5–9 miles over uneven and hilly terrain. Some canoeing.




Date Specific Information

5-12-2013

On this program, field trips will focus on spring ephemeral wildflowers and birding in addition to trees and other plants and animals. Participants must be able to hike 5-9 miles over uneven and hilly terrain.
Enjoy the latest in hearing technology — listening devices — on this date.



9-22-2013

Hiking field trips vary between 3-5 miles per half day and 4-8 miles per whole day. The terrain varies from flat to slightly hilly
Enjoy the latest in hearing technology — listening devices — on this date.



Coordinated by Trees For Tomorrow.




Eagle River

Situated near the largest inland chain of connecting freshwater lakes in the world, this community lies next to the 600,000-acre Nicolet National Forest and is a well-known hub of recreational activity, from canoeing to hiking.
Accommodations
Lodge-style dormitory with shared bath, lower bunks.

Road Scholar Instructors
These instructors are participating on at least one date of this program. Please note that changes may occur.
Rob Wiener
Rob Wiener has taught at Trees For Tomorrow since 1999. In addition to teaching, Rob is Northbound editor, coordinates school schedules and staff schedules, and develops curriculum. He is a Northland College graduate with a B.S. in environmental studies who worked previously with the U.S. Forest Service, Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, and private consulting firms. His hobbies include photography, guitar, weightlifting, tennis, and reading.
 
Maggie Bishop
Maggie joined the Trees For Tomorrow staff as a teacher and naturalist in January of 2003 and became executive director in 2005. As director, Maggie manages the day-to day operations of Trees For Tomorrow and the future direction of the organization. Maggie earned a bachelor’s from the University of Wisconsin - Green Bay in human development and also received her teaching certification. She taught 7th grade math, english and science at Cabrini Middle School in Manitowoc, followed by eight years as the educator for the Point Beach Energy Center in Two Rivers. Maggie enjoys kayaking, fishing, birding and hiking.
 
Cheryl Todea
Cheryl has been at Trees For Tomorrow since 2000. In addition to teaching, she supervises the seasonal naturalists, coordinates teacher workshops, helps the staff with computer and technology equipment, assists with the TFT website, and manages the campus store. Cheryl earned a degree in environmental education from the University of Wisconsin - Stevens Point and worked previously for the Girl Scouts and the Wisconsin DNR. She enjoys hiking, birding, biking, snowshoeing, and knitting.
 
Sheri Buller
Sheri joined the Trees For Tomorrow staff in August 2003. She is primarily responsible for group scheduling and pre-workshop preparation as well as personnel management. Sheri earned her bachelor's in biology from the College of St. Benedict in Minnesota and her masters in biology (wildlife management) from Northern Michigan University. She previously worked for the Wisconsin DNR as a wildlife manager and natural resources educator. Sheri enjoys horseback riding, hiking, wildflowers and biking.
 
Joe Panci
Joe rejoined the Trees For Tomorrow staff in 2009 after working at TFT from 1984 to 2003. In addition to teaching, Joe coordinates the natural resources careers workshop and oversees all education program equipment. He earned bachelor degrees in forestry and environmental education from Michigan State University and a masters in environmental education from University of Wisconsin - Stevens Point. Joe previously worked as an environmental science teacher, outdoor education coordinator and cross-country ski and softball coach at Conserve School in Land O' Lakes. Joe has also worked for the U.S. Forest Service, Youth Conservation Corps and Young Adult Conservation Corps programs. He is a National Outdoor Leadership School Outdoor Educator graduate as well as a Leave No Trace Master Educator.
 
Laura Schoephoester
Laura Schoephoester joined the Trees For Tomorrow education staff in August 2012. Originally from Morton Grove, Ill., she graduated from Northland College with a B.S. degree in outdoor and environmental education. In addition to her position as a teacher and naturalist, Laura oversees the care of numerous education animals, and is the summer programs coordinator. She enjoys camping, hiking, canoeing, gardening, and crocheting in her spare time.
 
Troy Walters
Troy has been at Trees For Tomorrow since January of 2003. In addition to teaching, he oversees the care of Trees For Tomorrow education raptors, is Northbound assistant editor, coordinates Road Scholar programming, and coordinates the Eagle River area Bat Monitoring effort. Troy earned his B.S. degree in Water Chemistry from the University of Wisconsin - Stevens Point. He has also worked as an environmental chemist and was a trip leader at various camps out west. Troy likes to cross-country ski, rollerski, bike, and canoe.
 
Meals and Lodgings
   Lodge at Trees For Tomorrow
  Eagle River, WI 6 nights
 Lodge at Trees For Tomorrow
Type: Lodge
  Description: Trees For Tomorrow (TFT) started in 1944 to help reforestation efforts in northern Wisconsin. Initially, Trees For Tomorrow was focused on giving out free tree seedlings and assisting with forest management. Once the reforestation effort was largely completed, TFT shifted more toward education. Today TFT is an accredited Natural Resources Specialty school that focuses on educating students, teachers, and other adults about the wise use and management of natural resources. The campus is located on about 30 acres with an interpretative walking trail within it.
  Contact info: 519 E. Sheridan St
P.O. Box 609
Eagle River, WI 54521 USA
phone: 715-479-6456
web: www.treesfortomorrow.com
  Room amenities: Each room has 2-3 bunk beds, dresser, coat rack, and small desk. During warm months, it is recommended to bring a fan, as only the main Education Hall has air conditioning. We will provide bed linens, pillows, and blankets. Participants should bring their own towels and washcloths.
  Facility amenities: Our dormitories are rustic, yet comfortable, one-story buildings with 7 to 12 bedrooms in each. The dorms have central lounges with fireplaces and a central shared standard bathroom (separate genders) within a short distance of each bedroom. There is Wi-Fi available campus-wide available at no cost. There are no laundry facilities on site, but there are places to go within a 5 minute drive.
  Smoking allowed: Yes
  Bathroom: Shared bath down the hall.
  Additional nights prior: $35 Single/$50 Double Please contact TFT - Road Scholar Coordinator Troy Walters at least 2 weeks prior to the program start date if interested in staying additional nights. Additional nights before and after the program vary depending on the program date.
  Check in time: 3:00 PM
  Additional nights after: $35 Single/$50 Double Please contact TFT - Road Scholar Coordinator Troy Walters at least 2 weeks prior to the program start date if interested in staying additional nights. Additional nights before and after the program vary depending on the program date.
  Check out time: 9:00 AM


Travel Details
  Start of Program:
3-4:30 PM check in at the Education Hall at Trees For Tomorrow campus in Eagle River, WI. You will be staying at Lodge at Trees For Tomorrow that night.
  End of Program:
9:00 AM at Trees For Tomorrow campus in Eagle River, WI. You will be staying at Lodge at Trees For Tomorrow the night before.
  Required documents:
The Road Scholar Health & Safety Form is required.
  Parking availability:
On-site parking is available at no extra cost.
Transportation
To Start of Program
  Location:  Eagle River, WI
  Nearest city or town:  Rhinelander
  Nearest highway: Hwy 45
  Nearest airport:  Rhinelander-Oneida County Airport (RHI)
  From End of Program
  Location: Eagle River, WI
    (Additional transportation information same as above)
Travel Details
 

Rhinelander

 

From Airport

 
 

Service:

 

Commercial Van/Shuttle
Trees For Tomorrow
phone: 715-479-6456
Advanced Reservations Required

 

Per Person/One Way:

 

$30
Prices are subject to change.
 

Travel Time:

 

45 min 
 

Distance:

 

35 miles
   

Please contact the Trees For Tomorrow - Road Scholar Coordinator at least 2 weeks prior to arrival to ensure transportation.
 

Rhinelander

 

From Airport

 
 

Service:

 

None - Car Required
Airport Car Rental
phone: 715-365-3430
Advanced Reservations Required

 

Per Person/One Way:

 

N/A - Depends on time you keep the rental car
Prices are subject to change.
 

Travel Time:

 

45 minutes 
 

Distance:

 

35 miles
   

Please contact the airport car rental well in advance (at least 2 weeks) to make sure they can meet your needs.
 

Rhinelander

 

From Airport

 
 

Service:

 

Taxi
Rapid Cab
phone: 715-365-7433
Advanced Reservations Required

 

Per Person/One Way:

 

$50
Prices are subject to change.
 

Travel Time:

 

45 minutes 
 

Distance:

 

35 miles
   

Due to the high cost of taxi service, we recommend contacting Trees For Tomorrow for an airport shuttle. If you do wish to use a taxi, call them at least 2 weeks prior to arrival.
 

Rhinelander

 

To Airport

 
 

Service:

 

Commercial Van/Shuttle
Trees For Tomorrow
phone: 715-479-6456
Advanced Reservations Required

 

Per Person/One Way:

 

$30
Prices are subject to change.
 

Travel Time:

 

45 minutes 
 

Distance:

 

35 miles
   

Please contact the Trees For Tomorrow - Road Scholar Coordinator at least 2 weeks prior to arrival to ensure transportation.
 

Rhinelander

 

To Airport

 
 

Service:

 

Taxi
Rapid Cab
phone: 715-365-7433
Advanced Reservations Required

 

Per Person/One Way:

 

$50
Prices are subject to change.
 

Travel Time:

 

45 minutes 
 

Distance:

 

35 miles
   

Due to the high cost of taxi service, we recommend contacting Trees For Tomorrow for an airport shuttle. If you do wish to use a taxi, call them at least 2 weeks prior to arrival.
 
Driving Directions
  From the East (Escanaba, MI) Take Hwy 70 West to Eagle River. Once in Eagle River, find 3rd street or Silver Lake Rd. and head North to Sheridan Street. Trees for Tomorrow is located at 519 E. Sheridan St.
  From the North (Hancock, MI) Take Hwy 45 South to Eagle River. Once in Eagle River, find 3rd street or Silver Lake Rd. and head North to Sheridan Street. Trees for Tomorrow is located at 519 E. Sheridan St.
  From the South (Appleton) Take Hwy 45 North to Eagle River. Once in Eagle River, find 3rd street or Silver Lake Rd. and head North to Sheridan Street. Trees for Tomorrow is located at 519 E. Sheridan St.
  From the West (Superior) Take Hwy 53 South to Hwy 70 East. Take Hwy 70 East to Eagle River. Once in Eagle River, find 3rd street or Silver Lake Rd. and head North to Sheridan Street. Trees for Tomorrow is located at 519 E. Sheridan St.
Equipment Requirements: Lightweight hiking boots and trekking poles if desired.
The prices listed for commercial services and facilities that are not included in the program cost, such as airport shuttles or extra nights lodging, are subject to change without notice. Since Road Scholar cannot guarantee the accuracy of these prices, we strongly suggest contacting the companies directly for the most up-to-date information.


Daily Schedule

Day 1: Check-in / Local Wine and Snacks Social / Orientation
(Sunday, May 12)
   
 Arrive To: Arrival - Check in at the Education Hall from 3-4:30 PM. Participants will get a name tag and room key along with additional information.
 Dinner: Social & Dinner - We will meet each other while enjoying local wine and snacks. This is normally an excellent time to do participant introductions. Dinner to follow at 5:30 PM.
 Evening: Orientation - Participants will get an orientation to the facilities and an overview of the schedule.
   
Accommodations: Lodge at Trees For Tomorrow
Meals Included: Dinner

Day 2: Hike Anvil National Recreation Trail / Canoe Instruction and Paddle / Raptors presentation
(Monday, May 13)
   
 Breakfast: Breakfast at 7:00 AM
 Morning: Hike Anvil National Recreation Trail - This trail system was built with the help of the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) and is one of Wisconsin's first National Recreation Trails, trails that have local and regional significance. There are many loops to select from in this 13-mile system. The forests range from an older sugar maple, yellow birch, eastern hemlock forest to red pine plantations.
 Lunch: 12:00 Lunch at TFT
 Afternoon: Canoe Instruction and Silver Lake Paddle - We will learn a few paddling strokes and then canoe around a local lake. Vilas County is home to over 1300 lakes, so canoeing is a great way to explore why so many people visit this location! This lake is also home to one of the symbols of the Northwoods, the common loon.
 Dinner: Dinner at 5:30 PM
 Evening: Raptors - We will learn about the amazing world of hawks, falcons, eagles, and owls. During the lecture portion, we will discuss the features that define raptors, examine some adaptations that help them survive, look at their biology, and discuss some conservation measures to help them out. Trees For Tomorrow is fortunate enough to have education birds for participants to see these features up close on a live raptor!
   
Accommodations: Lodge at Trees For Tomorrow
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 3: Hike Clark Lake loop in Sylvania Wilderness / Bog Investigation
(Tuesday, May 14)

Note: This hike is one of the more tiring hikes of the week.
   
 Breakfast: Breakfast at 7:00 AM
 Morning: Hike Clark Lake loop - This is probably the signature hike in the 20,000-acre Sylvania Wilderness. Over 60% of the hike offers a view of Clark Lake. The pristine waters of Sylvania in combination with the old-growth forest is what led to the wilderness designation in 1987. Old growth forests are difficult to find in the cutover land (mid 1800s) of the Northwoods! The majority of this trail is on rolling terrain and the narrow footpath provides a nice, intimate feel.
 Lunch: Sack lunch on the shores of Clark Lake
 Afternoon: We'll finish the 7.5-mile loop around Clark Lake. After the hike, we'll stop at the Ottawa Visitor Center. They have excellent information on the Ottawa National Forest and Sylvania, along with exhibits and a gift shop.
 Dinner: Dinner at 5:30 PM
 Evening: Bog Investigation - Vilas County is home to over 1300 glacially created lakes. When conditions are right, certain plants begin to grow out into the lake. These plants form a dense root network that allow us to walk on them. The waterbed-like feel of a northern quaking bog is a memorable experience for many participants. While out there, we will examine the many unique plants that call this area home. The carnivorous pitcher plant, sphagnum moss, leatherleaf, labrador tea, black spruce and tamarack are some of the plants and trees we'll expect to see.
   
Accommodations: Lodge at Trees For Tomorrow
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 4: Hike Hidden Lakes Trail and Franklin Nature Trail in the Nicolet National Forest / Lake paddling or staff choice program
(Wednesday, May 15)
   
 Breakfast: Breakfast at 7:00 AM
 Morning: Hike the Hidden Lakes Trail - Located in the Nicolet National Forest, about 2 of the 6 miles before lunch are fairly strenuous with the remainder being fairly flat. We will hike past many lakes including: White-Deer, Luna, McKinley, Three Johns, Butternut, Two Dutchmen's, and Franklin Lake. In addition to the large number of lakes, beautiful stands of hemlock, maple, and birch along with a wide array of ferns will be encountered. Many people consider this hike to be a true gem in that not many folks are found utilizing this beautiful area. The point to point hike is about 6 miles long.
 Lunch: Sack Lunch at Franklin Lake. We'll have a chance to eat under an old Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) constructed shelter that overlooks Franklin Lake.
 Afternoon: Hike Franklin Nature Trail - This 1.5-mile nature stroll is on very flat terrain. The beauty of this hike is that it goes through nearly every habitat type in the Northwoods, with interpretative stops and information along the way. Glacial soil in this area is a bit richer in many places, allowing for plants and ferns we won't see on many of our other hikes. This place is a Trees For Tomorrow staff favorite!
 Dinner: Dinner at 5:30 PM
 Evening: Lake Paddling or Staff Choice Program - An evening paddle is one of the best ways to see wildlife at a time when the temperatures begin to fall and the winds die down. If the weather is poor or group energy level is low, we have a multitude of programs to chose from. Examples include: compass use, tree identification, logging history, archery, bats, bears, vertebrate biology, etc.
   
Accommodations: Lodge at Trees For Tomorrow
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 5: Hike the Escarpment Ridge and Union Mine Interpretative Trail in the Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park
(Thursday, May 16)

Note: The 4.3-mile Escarpment Ridge Trail will be the most physically demanding hike of the week due to the hilly terrain and rocky hiking surface.
   
 Breakfast: 6:30 AM Breakfast
 Morning: Hike the Escarpment Ridge Trail in the Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park - Many people consider the Escarpment to be one of the most difficult hikes in the area, but also the most beautiful. This 4.3-mile point to point hike will explore the amazing geology of the area and gives one a feel of hiking "out west" in the Midwest. For those still wanting amazing views, but an easier hike, we will have an alternate hike on the same ridge but without as many climbs.
 Lunch: Sack lunch at the Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park Visitor Center. They have great displays, a well done informational video about the geology and ecology of the park, gift shop, and flush toilets!
 Afternoon: Hike the Union Mine Interpretative Trail - The 1-mile hike features the Little Union gorge along with the well done interpretative signs that describe the history of the 1846 mine and living conditions in the area at that time. Copper mining was very important to this area and it is neat to see this history along such a beautiful trail! Many participants have commented on how much they've enjoyed this hike. Well over half the trail is right next to 2 beautiful, small creeks.
 Dinner: Dinner on your own. Enjoy one of the many great restaurants in the area!
 Evening: Enjoy a relaxing evening!
   
Accommodations: Lodge at Trees For Tomorrow
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 6: Hike Star and Fallison Lake trails in the Northern Highland - American Legion State Forest / Closing
(Friday, May 17)

Note: We will spend a good amount of time at Star Lake examining forest management history. While the Fallison Lake hike is not very long, it does have some hilly terrain with a fair number of stairs.
   
 Breakfast: Breakfast at 7:00 AM
 Morning: Hike Star Lake Trail - Along with Fallison Lake, Star Lake is located in the Northern Highland - American Legion State Forest. Initially established in 1925 to protect the headwaters of the Flambeau, Manitowish, and Wisconsin Rivers, this state forest is Wisconsin's largest. This is also the site of the first, and longest running red pine plantation study in Wisconsin. We'll try our hand at measuring trees to see what management technique best suits red pine growth. This 2.5-mile hike weaves in and out of the forest and a large part of it is right on the shores of Star Lake.
 Lunch: Sack Lunch at Star or Crystal Lake. Both locations offer a lake view, have picnic tables, bathrooms, and offer an overhead shelter to get out of rain/sun.
 Afternoon: Hike Fallison Lake Trail - This 2.5-mile trail goes around Fallison Lake and has some interpretative signs along the way; revealing historical details about the area, wildlife that are commonly found with neat facts, geological features, and plant information among other things. This rolling topography will provide a good last challenge for the group!
 Dinner: Dinner at 5:30 PM
 Evening: Closing - The TFT Road Scholar Coordinator will present a slideshow containing pictures from the participants' experiences during the week. Participants will also get a CD and be able to download the pictures shown during the slideshow. Passports will also be stamped.
   
Accommodations: Lodge at Trees For Tomorrow
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Free Time Opportunities
  
  Eagle River, WI Downtown Stores
Located just a few blocks from downtown Eagle River, Wall Street has a variety of stores to explore.
  Eagle River Area Chamber of Commerce
The Eagle River Chamber of Commerce is a short walk from "Trees" and has excellent resources. Phone number is 715-477-2205. For additional information, visit www.eagleriver.org
  Fishing, Golf, Tennis, Basketball
There are many places to fish in the Northwoods. Other relaxing recreational opportunities at parks may include tennis and basketball. Golf courses can also be found in the area. See "Trees" Coordinator for further details.
  Olson Memorial Library
The library has many resources to explore. Books, email access, and newpapers can all be found. Phone number is 715-479-8070.
  Trails
Wilderness areas along with other public lands surround Eagle River. See "Trees" Coordinator for maps and locations.
  Various Trails
Trees For Tomorrow is in the heart of many public lands. National Forests, State Forests, and County Forests provide abundant opportunities for biking and other recreational opportunities. See "Trees" Coordinator for maps and locations. There are both road and mountain bike trails available.
Important information about your itinerary: Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy and completeness of the information featured on this website. Itineraries are based on our best information at this time. Circumstances beyond our control may require us to adjust itineraries or other details. We regret any inconvenience this may cause and appreciate your understanding. Information will be sent to you from your Program Provider approximately three weeks prior to the program start date. The prices listed for commercial services and facilities that are not included in the program cost, such as airport shuttles or extra nights lodging, are subject to change without notice. Since Road Scholar cannot guarantee the accuracy of these prices, we strongly suggest contacting the companies directly for the most up-to-date information.

Suggested Reading List


Graced by the Seasons: Spring and Summer in the Northwoods


Author: John Bates and Terry Daulton (Illustrated)


Description: Graced by the Seasons: Spring and Summer serves as a "Volume 2" to A Northwoods Companion: Spring and Summer, and offers a detailed and fascinating picture of the orderly timing and progression of natural events written for people who want a deeper understanding of all of nature. The book is chock full of phenological highlights and is organized so the reader who wants to study nature's coming attractions or plan a northern vacation can anticipate what will be blooming, crawling, singing, migrating, or croaking in any particular month.



Trailside Botany


Author: John Bates and April Lehman (Illustrated)


Description: In Trailside Botany, you will find clear descriptions and detailed drawings of the 101 wildflowers, trees, and other plants that you are most likely to see along your favorite North Woods trail. Take your exploration a step further by trying the intriguing activities naturalist John Bates suggests throughout the book. This carry-along guide is a must for families, hikers, teachers, students and naturalists of all ages.





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