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Retzer Nature Center

This 403-acre county property includes oak savanna, oak forest, marsh, fen, streams, ponds, pine plantations, grasslands and restored prairies. The glacial landscape includes a drumlin with commanding views of adjacent drumlins and the stream valley. The center offers 5 miles of trails for hiking, snow-shoeing and cross-country skiing. The Adventure Trail is a handicapped accessible paved walkway with 30 interpretive stops highlighting Wisconsin plants and wildlife. You can join a bird hike on Fridays in the spring, or venture out on your own to see many species of birds. The center hosts more than 5,000 students annually through its environmental education program, and sponsors public events throughout the year.

Directions: Located at W284 S1530 Cty DT, 2.5 miles west of Waukesha, midway between Waukesha and Wales, just south of Hwy 18.

Retzer Nature Center map

Gazetteer: Page 38, D-3 (prior to 10th edition). | Page 87, F-8 (10th edition).

Phone: 262/896-8007 (Retzer Nature Center).

Web site: Retzer Nature Center | Friends of Retzer Nature Center

Signature Species: Upland Sandpiper, Bobolink, Henslow’s Sparrow, and Northern Harrier.

Rare species: Yellow-throated Vireo, Mockingbird and Yellow-breasted Chat.

Seasonality: Grounds open daily, dawn-dusk; nature center open daily 8am-4:30pm.

Parking: Parking lots.

Nearest food & lodging: Waukesha.