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Whippoorwill Hike for Kids
July 1, 2023 @ 7:30 pm - 10:00 pm
Getting outside at night is a rare treat, especially for kids. Here’s a great opportunity to stay up late during the summer to experience nature at its magical best at night. We will hike up a hill to Ferry Bluff where we will get a beautiful view of the Wisconsin River and sit on top of an ancient sandstone bluff while we wait for the sun to set and the Whippoorwills to start singing. The Whippoorwill is a bird the size of a robin that has seen a decline in recent years. Ferry Bluff is one of the few places where they can be heard on a consistent basis. We will also likely see other birds like pelicans and turkey vultures hovering beneath the bluffs. There is a fireworks display afterwards that you don’t want to miss. This hike is suitable for children 10 years old and up. You must be able to hike up a short and steep hill of about 1/4 mile. Flashlights will be provided for the trip down as it will be dark. Also, a light snack will be provided. Ferry Bluff is located about 30 miles west of Madison just west of Sauk City. Bring a water bottle and something to sit on like a camp chair if you have one.