Originally protected as a bird sanctuary by the Wisconsin Society for Ornithology (WSO), Honey Creek actually protects an array of habitats including a class II trout stream, rocky outcroppings, upland ridges, and boggy areas.  Over 80 species of birds nest at this site including rareities such as veery, blue-gray gnatcatcher, yellow-throated vireo, blue-winged warbler, Louisiana waterthrush, and Acadian flycatcher.  Parking is available at the Cox Nature Center (down the gravel road to the south).  Alternatively, one can park on the road near the trailhead (though this is difficult to see from the road).  The trail initially passes through boggy, swampy areas filled with skunk cabbage and marsh marigold with Honey Creek to the east and the rock ridges to the west.  Eventually, the trail reaches the creek (down an embankment).  Further progress will require crossing the creek several times depending on how far you wish to go (I believe 4-5 creek crossings to reach the end of the WSO/TNC lands), though this can easily be done in the ankle deep water or by hopping on stones.  A nice array of spring ephemerals dot the landscape in April and May and help make this an enjoyable visit at any time of year.

Honey Creek

Trail through Ephemerals

Crossing Honey Creek

Honey Creek

Gorge Wall

Nodding Trillium (Trillium cernuum)

More of my photos from Honey Creek can be viewed here.

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