Observing early spring wildflowers will be the object of a free hike — or possibly a choice of hikes — to begin at 12 noon on Sunday, April 22. Participants will meet at the Highway 12 Ice Age Trail parking lot located between County Roads P and O on a large hill, about 2 1/2 miles east of Whitewater.

We may begin the hikes from the parking area, or we may drive to another location or a different trail with a broader selection of wildflowers. We will be looking for tiny jewel-toned hepaticas, white wood anemones and rue anemones, tall yellow bellwort, delicate pin-striped spring beauties and more. In damp areas, we may see golden marsh marigolds and odd-looking dark red skunk cabbage blossoms. A trillium sighting — and maybe even a morel — are possible, but not likely this early in this unusually cool spring weather.

Hikes will be approximately three miles long over mostly hilly wooded terrain. Hiking boots or other sturdy footwear, long pants, tick spray, water, and a snack are strongly recommended. Cameras and interested children are welcome, but please, no dogs this time! A State Parks parking sticker could be required but can be purchased at the parking area.

This event is sponsored by the Walworth/Jefferson County Chapter of the Ice Age Trail Alliance. For further information about other local Ice Age Trail activities and volunteer opportunities, please explore http://www.iceagetrail.org/volunteer/chapters/walworth-jefferson-county/

For questions or further information, please contact hike leader Ellen Davis at 262-740-1113.