Explore the natural world at the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point’s Schmeeckle Reserve this fall, with the annual candlelight hike and family nature programs offered free and open to the public.
The annual Fall Candlelight Hike will be held at the reserve, 2419 North Point Drive, Stevens Point, from 6-9 p.m., Friday, Nov. 1. Themed “Night of the Living Decomposers,” this family-friendly event offers jack-o’-lantern and torch-lit trails, character programs at 6:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m., snacks and crafts. A donation of $4 per person or $10 per family is suggested to support future events, programs and projects of the Friends of Schmeeckle Reserve.
Parking for this popular event is offered in the reserve’s overflow lot and on North Point Drive, Michigan Avenue and Maria Drive. The paved Visitor Center lot is reserved for those with disabilities or other special needs.
Family nature programs, led by UW-Stevens Point natural resources students, will be offered October-December. For any questions, reach out by emailing at schmeeckle@uwsp.edu, calling 715-346-4992 or visiting in person at the Visitor Center. Reasonable accommodation for special needs will be made with advanced notice. Please dress for the weather.
Fall programs include:
- Scale Down Stress, Friday, Oct. 11, 10-11 a.m., Relaxation in nature awaits. Learn tips and tricks to relieve stress in the outdoors.
- Feathered Families, Monday, Oct. 14, 6-7 p.m., Grab a flashlight for a night hike to explore how Great Horned Owl families form.
- Oh My, It’s Nic the Pollution Guy, Friday, Oct. 18, 6-7 p.m., Have you ever noticed water that looks dirty and gross? Discover how and why pollution can be a big “Oh My”.
- Nature’s MythBusters, Monday, Oct. 21, 6-7 p.m., Help bust some of nature’s biggest myths by discussing misconceptions about wildlife.
- Creepy Conversations About Cryptids, Monday, Oct. 28, 6-7 p.m., Cryptids like Bigfoot are known worldwide and some say there are creatures that call Wisconsin home. Explore the stories of these legendary beasts.
Learn more at www3.uwsp.edu/cnr-ap/schmeeckle.