Fall is in the air, and Scarecrow Lane is back at Retzer Nature Center in Wales!
This charming, family-friendly outdoor event offers something for everyone, whether you’re young or young at heart.
Explore Scarecrow Lane
Located on the west end of the Learning Center Building, Scarecrow Lane is a self-guided hike along the Blue Trail. As you wander, you’ll be greeted by creatively decorated scarecrows crafted by local families and businesses. Each one is unique!
- Dates: September 21st through October 31st, 2024
- Hours: Open daily from sunrise until 10:00 p.m.
- Cost: Free admission
In addition to the scarecrows, the trail offers beautiful views of Retzer Pond and the Children’s Garden, which is filled with pumpkins, flowers, and other fall plants.
Know Before You Go
The trail is about half a mile long and features woodchipped and mowed grass paths with some sloped areas.
While some heavy-duty strollers may manage the terrain, it’s best to plan on walking to fully enjoy the experience.
For a visual guide, check out the Scarecrow Lane Trail Map.
Discover the New and Improved Discovery Trail
While visiting Retzer Nature Center, don’t miss the newly renovated Discovery Trail. This multi-phase project has expanded accessibility, making it easier for people of all ages and abilities to connect with nature.
The Discovery Trail now features:
- Exploration stations for outdoor education and sensory-based play
- STEM activities for families and school groups
- A refreshed, accessible path and boardwalk
- A stone seat wall gathering space
- A boulder scramble, habitat-free play area, and native plant observation spots
With these upgrades, the Discovery Trail offers a fun and educational experience for everyone.
More Trails to Explore
If you’re looking to extend your visit, Retzer Nature Center offers additional scenic trails:
- Vista Trail: Enjoy stunning views of Waukesha from this trail.
- Nature Trail: A peaceful hike with boardwalks and babbling brooks.
What Else to See at Retzer Nature Center
Retzer Nature Center is not just about trails. It’s home to a variety of wildlife, including fish and small animals, and it also offers educational exhibits. Don’t forget to visit the Horwitz-Deremer Planetarium for a cosmic adventure.
Plan Your Visit
To learn more about Scarecrow Lane and everything else Retzer Nature Center has to offer, visit their website here.
Calie Herbst, Editor-in-Chief of Milwaukee With Kids, has spent over a decade combining her experiences as a parent of three to create a hub for Milwaukee’s family adventures.
Her decade-long teaching career in Milwaukee Public Schools and academic background, including a Master’s in Teaching from Marquette University and dual B.A.s in Sociology and Spanish from the University of Wisconsin – Madison, fuel her passion for inclusive and engaging family content.
Calie is also a recognized voice in local media, contributing to WISN Channel 12 News, WTMJ Wisconsin Morning News, Fox 6’s Real Milwaukee, and B93.3.
Discover more about Calie’s journey and editorial approach on her About Page and Editorial Policy Page.