The steep cliffs and gorges left behind by the glaicers create a cooler microclimate that allows relict pine stands like those found at Ridgeway Pine Relict SNA to persist in the southern part of the state. This site consists of three separate parcels, though only one has a parking area. The other two involve parking on the road and proceeding along access easements into the natural area, which I can tell you is an odd feeling when the neighboring family is watching you from their backyard. That said, this is a very nice site that I would not mind spending more time in. Cliffs, gorges, rockshelters, tall pines, and even a sedge meadow and dry prairie are all found here. The terrain makes for iffy footing at times so be careful if you are exploring this area.
More of my photos from Ridgeway Pine Relict can be viewed here.
Additional Information
| SNA # | 326 |
| County | Iowa |
| Natural Communities / Geology |
Pine Relict, Cliff, Rockshelter |
| Size (Acres) | 327 |
| Parking | Parking area (gravel), roadside |
| Trails | No |
| Easy to Find | No |
| Best Seen By | Foot |
| Marked Boundaries | No |
| Ownership | Wisconsin DNR |
| Located Within | na |
| Dates Visited | 7.26.09 / 10.11.09 / 4.11.10 |
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State Natural Areas of Wisconsin 