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W1 JOURNAL SENTINEL SUNDAY, APRIL 13, 2014

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BAYFIELD & MADISON Content provided by Travel WISCONSIN’S GREEN TOURISM

Play, Eat and Sleep Green in Wisconsin

Cable Nature Lodge / Photo courtesy of Chris Frasch

By Pat Dillon

im and Tim Bowler moved from Illinois to challenges await every skill level. And Braise On the Go chef owner David Swanson / while land preservation and clean water Photo courtesy of Bill Lubing Wisconsin 13 years ago to live where the “water practices sustain the state’s beauty, the Wisconsin Department of Tourism’s Travel miles of foot paths through prairie and is pristine and the lichen grows freely.” They Green Certification program keeps busi- boreal forests and along wetland, this a ness owners on track with their pledge to wonderful example of why Wisconsin ranks opened Alpine Resort on Vliet Lake in Presque nurture places people visit, play in, live second in birdwatching. The Arboretum K in and spend their money. Cathie Imes, celebrates its 80th year this June. Isle and became exemplary stewards of water and land. owner of the award-winning Arbor House Inn in Madison’s Dudgeon-Monroe neigh- An authentic “prairieland” experience borhood, needs few reminders. has visitors to the Little Sugar River Farm Today the Wisconsin Department of Natu- in Albany coming back for more. Here, ral Resources brings representatives from “Inn keeping includes the art of helping agritourism is infused into its outstand- surrounding states to tour their successful guests feel rested. It’s extremely gratify- ing location on the Albany Wildlife Area. lakeshore restoration project. The Bowlers’ ing to know that in a very immediate and “The farm is all about comfort and deeply hard work translates to what Bowler de- somewhat disconnected world, we provide restorative quiet,” says Stoughton resi- scribes as “pure fun in pure nature.” a different pace to feel nurtured and con- dent Lynne Diebel, a recurring customer. nected,” says Imes. “We want guests to relax while watching “We love wandering through the owner’s eagles fly over, hike in the virgin hemlock Imes nurtures Arbor House guests through vast gardens and visiting the henhouse, forest right on our lake, bike on our endless Kosirs Whitewater Rafting on the Menominee / an “urban ecology” which includes the use and warming up by a fire was the perfect Photo courtesy of Mackenzie Bryant of an ecological resource- and energy- trails through unbelievable scenery, swim in ending to snowshoeing in the wildlife efficient design while renovating and clean water and end the day watching the area.”With the adjacent 1,532 acres of long history of environmentalism, it’s not adding on to the 1840s historic site. She sun set or the stars appear. Really spend protected river habitat to wander and the surprising that land stewardship drives connects guests to Madison’s many natu- nearby 23-mile Sugar River Trail, nature- the day with nature,” says Bowler. this thriving industry. Natural recreation ral areas and tourism attractions with free lovers like Diebel are in their element. The Alpine Resort is just one of hundreds options abound – canoeing, kayaking, kayaks to paddle nearby Lake Wingra and SUSTAINABLE DINING of green tourism opportunities throughout white water rafting, biking and hiking op- mountain bikes to pedal Madison’s many Wisconsin. With its 1.5 million acres of portunities are endless. From the bluffs of on- and off-road bike paths. The nearby Wisconsin is not without its foodies. National Forests, 2,730 miles of state the Baraboo Hills to the Wild and Scenic 1,260-acre UW Arboretum, the birth- As a leader in sustainable agriculture, forest hiking trails, 15,000 lakes and its shorelines of the Lower St. Croix River, place of ecological restoration, offers 20 See Green Tourism, PAGE 3

BIG FUN. SMALL ENVIRONMENTAL FOOTPRINT. Visit our website for fun ways to travel green while you travel Wisconsin. W2 MILWAUKEE JOURNAL SENTINEL SUNDAY, APRIL 13, 2014 Content provided by Travel Wisconsin OF BAYFIELD AND MADISON Bayfield

Madison

Kayaking - Apostle Islands / Photo courtesy of RJ & Linda Miller Biking Along Lake Monona in Madison / Photo courtesy of RJ & Linda Miller apital and captivating, Madison ayfield is the type of small town GO GREEN… GO GREEN... blends big city culture with small travelers dream about – picturesque Rent kayaks from Living Take a leisurely stroll through town charm. Nestled on a narrow and charming with modern amenities Adventure Inc. to explore the C Olbrich Botanical Gardens, featuring B sandstone cliffs, sea caves, isthmus between two lakes, Madison’s city 16 acres of outdoor specialty and accommodations.The city is the gateway to historic lighthouses and gardens. center is bookended by the State Capitol the stunning Apostle Islands National Lakeshore unspoiled beaches of Visit Monona Terrace Community . on one end and the University of Wisconsin and Convention Center, a popular – 22 gem-like coastal islands that are home Pick you own fruit – seasonal campus on the other with no shortage of Frank Lloyd Wright creation that is to lighthouses, sea caves, hiking trails, camping, apples, pears and strawberries free and open to the public – and – at James Erickson Orchard. shopping, dining and attractions in between. has a strong commitment to green, terrific blue-water sailing, and some of the best Stay at the cozy Pinehurst Madison is also home to 23 Travel Green sustainable practices. kayaking in the world. And for those looking Inn, one of the first Travel Green Play at the Madison Children’s certified businesses. to travel green, Bayfield has the most green- certified members in the state. Museum where kids and adults alike can learn about sustainability in the certified businesses in the whole state with 36 Urb Garden and explore the great outdoors on the rooftop exhibit. certified members. TOP PHOTO MUST SEE ATTRACTIONS: OPPORTUNITIES... Stay at the Arbor House, Madison’s The State Capitol building, which offers leading environmental inn. The mainland sea caves free daily tours. at Meyers beach, where Lake MUST SEE ATTRACTIONS: The UW Memorial Union, a popular Superior has sculpted majestic gathering spot for the community. – hop on a ferry and cross the bay brownstone cave formations. to check out and the Madeline Island Henry Vilas Zoo, spanning 28 acres and TOP PHOTO The view of Lake Superior OPPORTUNITY IS... Historical Museum. free of charge. and the Apostle Islands The State Capitol dome Big Top Chautauqua, an intimate tent theater State Street, a pedestrian mall that offers National Lakeshore from the – modeled after the Capitol producing a fifty-plus night summer season of concerts, a diverse spread of shopping, restaurants ninth hole of the Apostle building in Washington, D.C. plays, lectures and more. Highlands Golf Course. and art galleries.

For more information on fun things to do and see in Bayfield, visit For more information on fun things to do and see in Madison, visit www.TravelWisconsin.com/Bayfield www.TravelWisconsin.com/Madison

Genuine hospitality. Unexpected new stay.

     Offering miles of routes along scenic   shoreline, up and down rolling hills of        farmland and through prairies and marshes, Be pleasantly surprised in     the Green Lake area is a biker’s paradise. Central Wisconsin at the       After an active day outdoors, unwind lakeside brand new Hotel Marshfield.       ­ at Heidel House Resort & Spa. €‚      Experience more at hotelmarshfield.com                         2700 South Central Avenue • Marshfield 715.387.2700 • www.hotelmarshfield.com       800.444.2812 • HeidelHouse.com

Salvage and Selvage:

Nature Composed: Insect Artistry of Jennifer Angus 3 Exhibitions on view through June 15

Franklin & 12th St. Wausau, WI 54403 715.845.7010 / www.lywam.org Tuesday – Friday 9 am – 4 pm First Thursday of each month 9 am – 7:30 pm Saturday – Sunday Noon – 5 pm Follow Us Closed Monday and holidays Weekly blog Woodson Wanderings recycled bicycle and car tire inner Always FREE Admission tubes and hotel sheets W3 MILWAUKEE JOURNAL SENTINEL SUNDAY, APRIL 13, 2014 Content provided by Travel Wisconsin

From page 1 Green Tourism IF YOU GO: Wisconsin boasts some of the for her artists comes through in how nation’s top chefs who draw from beautifully she presents their work.” Alpine Resort, 1,100 organic and sustainable Finding other artisans around the Egg Harbor – 920-868-3000; farms for seasonal, local and state is as easy as logging onto www.alpineresort.com sensational menus. PortalWisconsin.org, where artists Arbor House Inn, Chef David Swanson of Braise in and galleries are listed by medium Madison – 608-238-2981; Milwaukee’s Third Ward connects and region. Like Kjos, Debra Ketchum www.arbor-house.com customers with area farmers through Jircik’s Circle of Life Studio near Eagle a number of avenues. Swanson River takes travelers out of a com- Little Sugar River Farm, celebrates the “simple wonders of mercialized mindset and into a true Albany – 608-852-3648; local food” through sourcing locally natural setting with her Northwoods- www.littlesugarriverfarm.com at his restaurant; by providing locally inspired art and organic gardens on a sourced food to other area restaurants peaceful Lake Meta setting. Braise, through his Restaurant Supported GREEN BY NATURE Milwaukee – 414-212-8843; Agriculture; through education at his www.braiselocalfood.com It’s difficult to travel Wisconsin culinary school; and by offering events without coming across a celebrated that connect customers to the people Cable Nature Lodge, natural area, whether it’s a restored who grow and raise their food. Many Cable – 715-794-2060; wetland, prairie or wildlife refuge, or a events take place right on the farm. www.cablenaturelodge.com notable nature center like Baraboo’s The Northwoods is clearly more about Aldo Leopold Legacy Center or the Rookery Pub Fine Dining, forestry than farming,but the field to International Crane Foundation. Cable – 715-794-2062; fork philosophy has also caught on www.rookerypub.com One hidden gem is The Ridges there. The Cable Nature Lodge tucked Sanctuary in Bailey’s Harbor. Founded into the Chequamegon Forest is one Kosirs, in 1937, its presence spawned example. Owner Bill Brakken says he Silver Cliff – 715-757-3431; conservation efforts throughout the runs a green resort because it’s “part www.kosirs.com entire Door County peninsula. Home of his core value system.” What his Blaser’s Acres Berry Farm, Suamico / Photo courtesy of Glenn Sanderson to easy-to-observe nesting cranes, Bear Paw Resort, chef cooks up in the lodge’s restau- native wildflowers, migrating birds White Lake – 715-882-3502; rant, The Rookery Pub Fine Dining, and butterflies, the sanctuary is also www.bearpawoutdoors.com is part of that value system. Brakken near the Wild and Scenic Wolf River through historic districts and cultural habitat for the endangered Hines emphasizes fresh seasonal ingredients to learn skills for the adventure. and recreational sites. Reverse course emerald dragonfly and 25 highly Circle of Life Studio, from local producers which has earned and bikers can hook up with the Old “Unmotorized sports are healthier, protected native orchid species. Like Eagle River – 715-479-9737; it the distinction as TripAdvisor’s #1 Plank Road Trail, a seventeen-mile, less expensive and provide us with Susan Carlson of Dallas, visitors www.circleoflifestudio.com Rated Area Restaurant. “Our weekly multi-use trail connecting Sheboygan a more rewarding experience,” says come from all over for a naturalist- Fresh Fish UN-Fry, featuring uniquely with communities like Greenbush, Aldo Leopold Legacy Center, Sara King of Gurnee, Ill. who bought a guided hike or group tour. prepared seafood from sustainable cabin on the Wolf River after frequent- Plymouth, Sheboygan Falls and Kohler. Baraboo – 608-355-0279; fisheries around the world, is a popular ing the Bear Paw Resort. “Bear Paw BUY LOCAL “Door County has its obvious beauty www.aldoleopold.org alternative to the ubiquitous North- – Green Bay, Lake Michigan, Peninsula adjusted to our different skill levels Traveler Mary Kay McCanna found Kris- woods frozen fish fry,” says Brakken. State Park,” says Carlson, a Wisconsin International Crane Foundation, and group interests,” says King. tine Kjos’s gallery shop in Alma while native who vacations here with family. Baraboo – 608-356-9462; SILENT SPORTS “Friday night paddles end with a meal traveling up Hwy 35 along the Mis- “But walking through Ridges Sanctuary www.savingcranes.org – a great way to meet people.” sissippi River last summer. Kjos sells The Wisconsin DNR reports a mind- and knowing it has those hidden work exclusively by Wisconsin artists, The Ridges Sanctuary, boggling 12,600 rivers with 503 Land lovers are not without low impact orchids is like a treasure hunt. I may supporting the buy local concept that Baileys Harbor – 920-839-2802; promising the perfect intensity for options. The DNR provides maps of never see one, but I won’t stop looking.” whitewater rafting.Experienced footpaths and bike routes all over the a local economy endorses a healthy www.ridgessanctuary.org paddlers often rely on outfitters like state. Bikers can visit quaint towns like environment, a theory which McCanna Kosirs in Silver Cliff near the Peshtigo Sheboygan by way of its Urban Rec agrees. “It feels good to know my and Menominee Rivers to connect them Trail, a 4.25 mile path stretching from tourist dollars support local working For more information about Travel Green Certified with the right river location and water Sheboygan’s west end to Lake Michi- artisans,” says McCanna. “I also like destinations and businesses, visit action. Newcomers rely on resorts like gan. Clearly marked routes traverse frequenting thoughtful business own- www.TravelWisconsin.com/TravelGreen the Bear Paw Resort in White Lake parks and green spaces and wind ers like Kristine. The respect she has

Come Enjoy the North Woods... All 28 guest rooms at Konkapot Lodge have a scenic view of the Wisconsin North Woods. It’s a great place to relax and play... (715) 787-4747 Large group picnic shelter & grill, group campfire area, spectacular sustainable-harvest hand-hewn log great room, continental breakfast, “fresh food, expertly prepared” www.konkapot.com BREAKFAST / LUNCH / DINNER hiking, biking – just off Mountain Bay Trail (halfway point between Wausau - Midwest Living “Best of the Midwest” and Green Bay), golfing, whitewater rafting, swimming, historic museums, WINE BAR / LODGING 1 Mile West of NORTH STAR CASINO 1 Hour West of GREEN BAY tribal culture centers, 3 area casinos... and much more! W12635 Cty A, Bowler, WI A family run restaurant offering Special Welcome Rate: American casual fare with an CLIP emphasis on local ingredients. THIS Bring this ad for a 10% discount at check-in! AD! See our website for special black out dates and restrictions FISH CREEK / DOOR COUNTY 920.868.3634 cookeryfishcreek.com W4 MILWAUKEE JOURNAL SENTINEL SUNDAY, APRIL 13, 2014 Content provided by Travel Wisconsin

Why choose a Travel Green Wisconsin certified business?

If the phrase “travel green” conjures up images of sleeping in one end of the green travel spectrum, traveling green can be a tent and hiking for days, think again. Travel Green is about practiced wherever you go – and it doesn’t mean giving up one thing: preserving the natural and cultural environment of a comfy bed or a delicious meal. Luckily, Wisconsin makes it the places you visit. And although camping and hiking are on easy (and fun) to travel green. See Travel Green, PAGE 5

S TONEFIELD S T S T E A M P U N K F E W I L D W E S T I VA L

May 23, 24 & 25, 2014 Photo: Buffalo Bill’s Wild West Step back in time to the alternate 1880’s when the West was wild and blasters ruled the territory. See shootouts, horses and heroes. Look for gold, We are Wisconsin’sCranberry Country! Nestled in Wisconsin’s driftless region, our area is home to the Wisconsin Cranberry Discovery Center, reconnect with your game Come to the Grand Ball or the Necedah National Wildlife Refuge, Mill Bluff State Park, its sister-park dance the night away at the Wildcat Mountain State Park, thousands of acres of cranberry marshes anda15 minute drive from the Elroy-Sparta National Bike Trail. Tombstone Square Dance

At the crossroads for west-central Wisconsin, Tomah’s location is and Hootenany. where I-90&I-94 connect making us a convenient location for your next getaway. Nothing can be more exhilarating than the crack of a For more information go to: golf ball hit across the early morning dew. The plush www.wildweststeampunk.com

WISCONSIN’S greens, rolling fairways, challenging water holes and CRANBERRY COUNTRY To learn more about our community, our incredible views of Green Lake’s golf courses are the attractions and our events visit our website. perfect way to reconnect with nature, colleagues and Call to requestacopyof our Area Guide or friends. So grab your clubs, open a new box of balls, download it from our website. and clear your mind—the perfect course is waiting to challenge every level of play in beautiful Green Lake.

www.visitgreenlake.com | 800.253.7354 | 920.294.3231 Stonefield Historic Site ~ Casville,WI www.tomahwisconsin.com|800-948-6624 4365681-01 W5 MILWAUKEE JOURNAL SENTINEL SUNDAY, APRIL 13, 2014 Content provided by Travel Wisconsin

From page 4 Travel Green

GREEN MOVEMENT: Travel Green Wisconsin has its roots in Wisconsin’s heritage of stewardship. Travelers are supporting the principles of Wisconsin’s John Muir, Aldo Leopold and Gaylord Nelson when practicing and supporting Travel Green Wisconsin certified businesses.

PROTECTING THE ENVIRONMENT: Travel Green Wisconsin certified businesses are working hard to do their part in protecting our environment for today and for future generations. Investing in them means an investment in a more sustainable future that preserves our natural resources.

BUY LOCAL: Our Travel Green certified businesses support local farmers, businesses and artists. By visiting, you are also doing your part to support the local economy.

GREEN EDUCATION: Travel Green certified businesses offer an opportunity to learn about green practices that you can also apply in your own home. This saves money, energy, water, and other resources.

PEER APPROVED: Know that you are doing good by supporting a Travel Green Wisconsin certified business. These businesses have been vetted and reviewed by a third party vendor whose expertise is deeply rooted in environmental systems.

BUYING POWER: By choosing a Travel Green certified business you are rewarding the business with your dollars, thus providing them with an incentive to strive toward continual improvement of their green practices.

In the spirit of Wisconsin’s heritage of environmental stewardship, the Department of Tourism initiated Travel Green Wisconsin in 2007 to promote smart and environmentally friendly business practices. The program was the first of its kind in the nation and has become a model for sustainable travel nationally and internationally. As more and more travelers like yourself look to make life a little greener, we hope you’ll appreciate and support the tourism businesses that work hard to reduce their own environmental impact. Check out our directory of Travel Green certified businesses for a complete listing of members at www.TravelWisconsin.com.

S TONEFIELD S T S T E A M P U N K F E W I L D W E S T I VA L

May 23, 24 & 25, 2014 Photo: Buffalo Bill’s Wild West Step back in time to the alternate 1880’s when the West was wild and blasters ruled the territory. See shootouts, horses and heroes. Look for gold, Come to the Grand Ball or dance the night away at the Tombstone Square Dance and Hootenany. For more information go to: Spring Getaway www.wildweststeampunk.com Receive a one-night stay in a spacious suite and $20 dining credit. From $179, plus tax, May1–22, 2014; based upon availability. Not valid on previously booked reservations. For reservations, call 866.428.5006.

Stonefield Historic Site ~ Casville,WI The Osthoff Resort is a Travel + Leisure 2014 T+L 500 World’s Best Hotel. 4365681-01 Elkhart Lake, WI • mjs.osthoff.com W6 MILWAUKEE JOURNAL SENTINEL SUNDAY, APRIL 13, 2014

GET UP, GET OUT AND EXPLORE.

A fresh way to experience Wisconsin. There’s no resource like WisconsinTrails.com. It uncovers the hidden gems waiting for you in every corner of the state.

I Breathtaking photography of Wisconsin’s landscapes and wildlife, a Wisconsin Trails tradition I Getaway ideas – day trips, weekends, upcoming events I Local flavor - restaurants, reviews, reader recipes I Fascinating people – meet interesting Wisconsinites, from artists to business owners, and more!

Get up, get out and explore with ideas from WisconsinTrails.com, your go-to resource for experiencing the best of Wisconsin.

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