10-29-12

Wisconsin has a great many Natural Areas,  little pockets of nature left largely  not maintained. They protect the natural flora and fauna of the area, but are accessible to people to visit. Baxter’s Hollow is near the Baraboo Hills  and near  North Freedom. It is owned by the Nature Conservancy, and the largest preserve they protect in Wisconsin.  It was designated in 1970. It was after fall peak colors the day we went there, and the only thing to be heard were birds, squirrels and chipmunks.

 

There is one faint dirt trail through the woods, be sure to wear hiking boots and jeans for protection, sometimes there are burrs and other sharp plants near the trail.

 

Let’s begin our walk on the trail,  still pretty even without leaves on the trees. You can download a map too.

 

We came to the Otter Creek crossing, but it was dry. We had a drought last summer and it was still dry.

 

Baxter’s Hollow was once the site of a village called Otterville.  It was a gold mining station. It also had a campground and maple syrup camp.  We found remnants of this camp on our hike. Also a small pond called Bakken’s pond.

 

We had a good time here, we hope to be back  in the spring.

 

 

 

Related articles

• Baxter Hollow, A hidden Treasure in the Baraboo Hills (badgerchemist.wordpress.com)
• The Southwest Wisconsin Birder
• DNR link
• The Nature Conservancy
• Satellite View
• Baxter Hollow Blends Birdseed
• Pine Grove Park Bed and Breakfast
• Inn at Wawanissee Point in Baraboo