Winter Park Pines Conservation Easement
Trails
The property has a massive network of trails for multiple types of silent sports that are open to the public year-round. Daily trail passes are not required in spring, summer, and fall. In winter, a trail pass is required. Learn more Here!
Benefits
Public access to silent sports trails; natural plant and animal habitat; water quality; carbon storage and other nature-based services that lessen the impacts of climate change
History
In December of 2011, Ken & Carolyn Aldridge of the MWP Preservation LLC donated the conservation easement. This was, and continues to be, the largest private conservation easement donation to a land trust in Wisconsin. Today the property is owned by the Minocqua Winter Park Foundation, MWP Preservation LLC, and several other private landowners.
Town of Minoqua, oneida County
3,195 Acres
Ownership: Minocqua Winter Park Foundation
Getting There
Take Hwy 70 west of Minocqua about 6.5 miles. Turn south on Squirrel Lake Road and go 4 miles. Turn east on Scotchman Lake Road about 3/4 miles to the entrance to Minocqua Winter Park.
Find Minocqua Winter park on Google Maps.
MANAGEMENT
Trails are cleared annually to allow for public recreation. Otherwise, the preserve is passively managed.
Benefits
Natural plant and animal habitat; water quality; public access; carbon storage and other nature-based services that lessen the impacts of climate change
Funding Support
A local campaign was used to raise the funds for the costs associated with the conservation easement. Over 90 individuals and families contributed, along with grant makers including James E. Dutton Foundation; Arthur L. & Elaine V. Johnson Foundation; James D. & Jane P. Watermolen Foundation; Modestus Bauer Foundation; Greater Green Bay Community Foundation; and Wisconsin’s Knowles Nelson Stewardship Fund.
More to Explore
Beaver Creek Hemlocks Conservation Area,
Holmboe Conifer Forest State Natural Area
Marshall Wildlife Conservation Area
