Exploring Vernon Marsh in Waukesha County Register

Date and Time:
Sun, May 3, 20261:00 PM4:00 PM  (Central)

 Add to Calendar
05/03/2026 1:00 PM 05/03/2026 4:00 PM America/Chicago
Exploring Vernon Marsh in Waukesha County

The Great Waters Group is collaborating with the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources and the Friends of Vernon Marsh on a 3.1-mile hike to explore the southernmost section of the 4,300-acre Vernon Wildlife Area. The Vernon Marsh contains an extensive mosaic of wetland habitat, with the Fox River being the central feature in the larger Fox River watershed.

28830 Frog Alley Rd, Mukwonago, WI 53149, USA

Webinar URL:

42.90141000,-88.31168100 Karen Samelson ksamelson16@gmail.com MM/DD/yyyy amOUuwqNAzpGSXwtHmnd12740

Organized By: Great Waters Group

Location28830 Frog Alley Rd, Mukwonago, WI 53149, USA

Map | Directions

Event Organizers:
Karen Samelson
   ksamelson16@gmail.com
Glenn Chadwick
   glenn.chadwick.10@gmail.com

Trail with  Vernon Marsh  in background

Hike Vernon Marsh in Waukesha County 
Sunday, May 3, 1 – 4 p.m.
28830 Frog Alley Rd, Mukwonago, WI 53149


The Great Waters Group is collaborating with the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources and the Friends of Vernon Marsh on a 3.1-mile hike to explore the southernmost section of the 4,300-acre Vernon Wildlife Area. The Vernon Marsh contains an extensive mosaic of wetland habitat, with the Fox River being the central feature in the larger Fox River watershed. 


During this hike we will view the local fauna of this expansive marsh and woodland area using a portion of a loop trail opened by the Wisconsin DNR in late 2024.  Early May should provide hike participants with the opportunity to witness migratory bird activity, turtles bathing in the spring sun, spring flowers, and the hardwood forest in early leaf-out.  Jessica Knackert, a wildlife specialist with the Department of Natural Resources, will be our guide and talk about the local fauna and plans for this wildlife area.
To eliminate an out-and-back hike, we propose participants use their vehicles to shuttle between the starting and ending points for this hike. Energetic hike participants also have the option to complete the entire 5.1-mile loop trail. 

Terrain: Mainly flat terrain with one small uphill section.  The trail is a combination of a dirt path, boardwalks, and crushed gravel.

Meet at the parking Lot at 28830 Frog Alley Rd, Mukwonago, WI 53149\

After the hike, participants can take part in optional “happy hour” gathering.  Our intended location for this gathering is The Castaway on Phantom, a bar and grill on the shore of Phantom Lake in nearby Mukwonago. 
 

Level: Easy

Cost: Free

Bring: Appropriate clothes for the weather. Hiking boots or old shoes recommended as some sections of the trail may be muddy. Bring your own sunscreen, bug spray, snacks, water, and binoculars.We will also have binoculars available to borrow.

Additional Directions: Parking Lot at 28830 Frog Alley Rd, Mukwonago, WI 53149

Cancellation Policy: Heavy rain cancels

RSVP Below

*
*
*
*


Check to join Sierra Club's Mobile Action Network!

By taking this action to protect the planet, you are affirming you want to receive regular Sierra Club communications and may vote on policy designated by the Sierra Club Board.