What a surprise to find this tall-tree, 60-acre, filtered-light forest in the heart of Wauwatosa, west of Milwaukee. Walk this easy, one-mile, newly graveled path at the Forest Exploration Center off Swan Blvd. You'll travel through a maple-spruce woodland with remnants of old beech trees. The non-profit Forest Exploration Center's goal, in conjunction with Wisconsin's Department of Natural Resources, is to create "a model of sustainable forestry and educational outreach." Morning, after rush hour, is the best time to trek through this second-growth forest.

Gary Braun will lead Nordic Ski Club of Milwaukee hikers starting at 9:30 am on Friday, October 2. After the forest walk, Gary will direct you to a nearby treeless trail (about 3 miles) circling the water-retention area near Underwood Pkwy. He will not accompany you on this easy path, where you’ll find fields of wildflowers. Porta Potties and parking are at the starting point, 1800 Forest Exploration Dr., Wauwatosa, which branches off from a round-about at Swan Blvd.

Please call Gary Braun beforehand as the hike may be cancelled due to inclement weather: 414-527-0040 or cell 414-236-8460.

The Nordic Ski Club of Milwaukee (NSCM) continues to practice social distancing and the use of face masks, as recommended by the CDC and Wisconsin authorities. Know that your participation in any event is at your own risk. Before attending any NSCM outing or event, please check with the event leader. Use good judgment and continue to keep us all safe.