Winter in Wisconsin can be brutal, but it also holds a special kind of magic-snow-covered trails, frozen ponds, and that crisp, refreshing air that makes you feel alive. As a mom of two adventurous boys, I’ve learned that the best way to survive winter is to embrace it. So, when another weekend rolled around with two little guys bouncing off the walls, I knew exactly where we needed to go-Barkhausen Waterfowl Preserve in Suamico.
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Bundled up in layers-snow pants, mittens, hats, and boots that somehow always end up filled with snow-we loaded into the car, excitement buzzing between us. My 4-year-old was eager to explore, find sticks and look for animal tracks, while my fearless 20-month-old was just thrilled to be outside, ready to take off in any (and all) directions.
First Stop: The Trails and Frozen Ponds
As we pulled into the preserve, the boys practically leaped out of the car. The snow-covered landscape stretched before us, peaceful and inviting. With the sun shining and the temperature just cold enough to keep a light layer of snow, we set off on one of the many trails.
- Animal Tracks in the Snow: Right away, my oldest spotted tiny footprints crisscrossing the path. “Mom! What animal is this?” he asked, crouching down to examine them. We followed a trail of rabbit tracks leading to a brush pile and even found some deer prints near the pond.
- Frozen Pond Exploration: The ponds at Barkhausen are beautiful in any season, but there’s something magical about them in winter. We stood at the edge, testing the ice with sticks. Though it wasn’t safe for skating or walking on, the boys had a blast throwing small chunks of snow onto the surface and watching them slide.
- Snowshoeing Possibilities: If you’re feeling extra adventurous, Barkhausen offers snowshoe rentals. I made a mental note to try that another day when I wasn’t wrangling a toddler determined to eat snow at every opportunity.
The Fort in the Woods: A Winter Hideout
After some trail exploring, we stumbled upon one of the highlights of our trip, the nature hut, or as my oldest says “a snow covered hideout”, nestled in the woods.
- Exploring the “hideout”: My oldest immediately started on an imagination adventure, meanwhile, the youngest was thrilled to run in and out of the fort’s “door”, giggling as he left tiny boot prints behind.
- Crossing the Frozen Creek: Of course, no winter adventure is complete without a little thrill. We came across a small frozen creek with a makeshift wooden “bridge” stretched across it. With careful steps and a few wobbles, we took turns crossing. It wasn’t anything grand, but the simple challenge made it all the more fun.
Warming Up Inside: The Nature Center & Indoor Play Area
By this point, little fingers and noses were getting cold, and it was time to warm up. We headed inside the Barkhausen Nature Center, a nice open space filled with animals and nature facts, a perfect exploration area for kids.
- Animal Exhibits: The nature center has several interactive displays, including taxidermy animals and hands-on learning stations. My oldest loves learning about the different animal tracks, while my toddler loves to look at the different animals poop- of course it is fake.
- Snack Break & Hot Cocoa: I had packed some snacks, so we found a spot to sit in the big dining room area and recharge. As a special winter treat, I brought along a small thermos of hot cocoa, which was an instant hit. There’s something about sipping warm cocoa after playing in the snow that just feels right.
Final Stop: One Last Outdoor Adventure
Before heading home, we ventured outside one last time to check out the outdoor kids play area. They have
As we finally trudged back to the car, cheeks pink from the cold and mittens wet from the snow, I couldn’t help but smile. Winter outings like these remind me why it’s worth bundling up and getting outside-even when staying cozy at home feels tempting. My boys had explored, played, and made memories, and I knew they’d be fast asleep before we even made it home.
Planning Your Own Winter Visit to Barkhausen? Here Are Some Tips:
✔ Dress in layers – Waterproof mittens, snow pants, and warm boots are a must!
✔ Pack snacks and a thermos of hot cocoa – Nothing beats a warm treat after playing in the snow.
✔ Look for animal tracks – The trails are full of little surprises if you take the time to look.
✔ Bring a sled – If you have little ones, a sled can be a lifesaver for tired legs.
✔ Check out the indoor area – It’s a great way to warm up while keeping the fun going.
Winter at Barkhausen is pure magic, and I know we’ll be back again soon-maybe next time with snowshoes or even a sledding adventure. Until then, we’ll be dreaming of our next snowy escape.
Learn more about Barkhausen: HERE
With love,
Bri & Cat
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