Outdoors &amp; Nature Events

Beginning Backpacking

Three-day, 18-mile guided backpacking trip on the Ice Age Trail through Kettle Moraine Northern Unit, for adults new to backpacking. Instructor Ian Sweet has 250+ nights on the Appalachian, PCT, and Arizona Trails. Hands-on training in water filtration, campsite selection, food storage, and Leave No Trace. Trail meals are provided; gear checklist comes ahead and shared gear options are available.

Group Hikes
Classes

$250–$260

Walk the Hank - in the Footsteps of a Civil War Soldier

SAT JUL 189AM

Trailhead at 700 block S 56th St·Milwaukee

Walk the Hank - in the Footsteps of a Civil War Soldier

Guided tour of the Hank Aaron State Trail with retired Trail Manager Melissa Cook. Explore the Historic Soldier’s Home Campus and its gothic tower.

Group Hikes

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SAT JUL 1810AM

Nature Journal Club

Jul 18 · Aug 15 · Sep 19

Discover the beauty of Milwaukee's natural landscapes with the Nature Journal Club. This welcoming group meets monthly to share a love for nature journaling. Whether you're experienced or just curious, bring your journal and enjoy the camaraderie. Dress for the weather, and note that some supplies are available to borrow.

Workshops

TUE JUL 216:30PM

MKE REC Hawthorn Glen Outdoor Education Center·Wauwatosa, Milwaukee

Flying Flowers

Butterfly class at Hawthorn Glen on July 21. Learn about metamorphosis and how to help these colorful insects.

Classes

WED JUL 228PM

MKE REC Hawthorn Glen Outdoor Education Center·Wauwatosa, Milwaukee

Owl Prowl

Hike through Hawthorn Glen to learn about native owls. $5 for residents, July 22, 8–9:30 pm. Parent registration required.

Group Hikes

SUN JUL 2611AM

All Abilities Open House

Discover the beauty of nature at Wehr Nature Center's All Abilities Open House. This event is all about making the outdoors accessible to everyone, with adaptive hikes, yoga, and birding activities. It's a great way to connect with local accessibility partners and enjoy some tasty snacks. Arrive early to make the most of the hands-on equipment demos.

MON JUL 2711AM

Novak Family Fieldhouse·Brown Deer

Rock Climbing: a Beginner'S Course

Jul 27 · Aug 10 · Aug 10

Beginner climbing course for 5-8 year-olds at Novak Family Fieldhouse in Brown Deer. Instructors Zoe Hawk and Braeden Blockel walk kids through basic technique and safety, with bouldering and traversing built into games and challenges so it doesn't feel like a lecture. Four weekday-morning sections to pick from.

For kids · Elementary

Varies

TUE JUL 286:30PM

MKE REC Hawthorn Glen Outdoor Education Center·Wauwatosa, Milwaukee

Ants

Spot ants in nature at Hawthorn Glen. Learn about these unique creatures and make a craft to take home.

For kids · Preschool to Teen

WED JUL 294:30PM

Milwaukee Public Library - Atkinson Branch·North Side, Milwaukee

Basic Backyard Composting

Learn backyard composting basics at Atkinson Branch on July 29. Free program includes a chance to win a compost bin.

Lectures
Workshops

WED JUL 298PM

MKE REC Hawthorn Glen Outdoor Education Center·Wauwatosa, Milwaukee

Fireflies

Catch and release fireflies and moths at Hawthorn Glen. Make a firefly craft to take home, July 29, 8 PM.

Workshops

SUN AUG 21PM

Urban Ecology Center - Washington Park·Sherman Park, Milwaukee

Grown Up Summer Camp

Grown Up Summer Camp is your chance to relive camp days without the curfew. Enjoy yoga, kayaking, and crafts at the Urban Ecology Center. Bring your own t-shirts for stamping and unwind with a musical jam around the campfire. Early birds save a bit, so grab your ticket before June ends.

Day Camps
Yoga
Paddle Events

$55

THU AUG 610AM

Tai Chi Walking

Experience the calming practice of Tai Chi Walking at Wehr Nature Center. Led by Reverend Jenny Miller, this session blends Tai Chi with walking, promoting relaxation and balance. It's a great way to connect with nature and find inner peace. Dress comfortably and enjoy the serene outdoor setting.

Yoga

TUE AUG 186PM

Milwaukee Public Library - Bay View Branch·Bay View, Milwaukee

Basic Backyard Composting

Learn backyard composting basics at Bay View Branch. Free program with a chance to win a compost bin.

Lectures

Walk the Hank - Through the Central Valley

WED AUG 195:30PM

Walk the Hank - Through the Central Valley

Charter Wire·Milwaukee

Join Michelle Kramer for a $2 walk through the Central Valley. Discover ponds, rail history, and local art along the trail.

Group Hikes

FRI AUG 212PM

Friday Afield: Rainbow Airport

Rainbow Park·West Allis

Explore the hidden beauty of Milwaukee County's prairie on this guided ecology walk at Rainbow Airport. It's a rare chance to go off-trail and learn about native flowers in their natural habitat. Bring your waterproof boots and bug spray, and be ready for an adventure through wetlands.

Group Hikes

$7–$10

SAT AUG 224PM

Brews and Botany

Discover the world of plant-based drinks at Wehr Nature Center's "Brews and Botany." Sample craft beer, kombucha, coffee, and tea in a scenic setting with live music. Enjoy a botanical hike with trivia and grab a bite from an artisanal food truck. It's a perfect blend of nature and flavor. Free parking makes it even sweeter.

Tastings

$20–$25

WED AUG 262PM

County Grounds Park·Wauwatosa

Community Science: Pollinators

Dive into the world of bumble bees with this hands-on field survey at Waukesha County Parks. It's a chance to learn from experts and contribute to local conservation efforts. Bring your curiosity and a keen eye for spotting these vital pollinators. Perfect for nature lovers and those looking to make a difference.

Workshops

THU AUG 272PM

Full Moon Beach Yoga

Atwater Park·Shorewood

Aug 27 · Sep 27

Experience yoga under the full moon at Atwater Beach, blending movement and breathwork with the calming sound of the lake. Arrive early to find your spot and enjoy the community vibe. Bring a blanket and immerse yourself in this unique monthly gathering.

Outdoor Yoga

Varies

FRI AUG 286:30PM