Assistant director Karen Newbern says yellow lady's-slippers should begin appearing by the first part of June this year. Tiny coralroot orchids should be close behind. But don't wait until then. May. Abundant trails To reach the Ridges, drive north on state Highway 57 to Baileys Harbor. The entrance is not quite a quarter-mile past the turn on the south side of the road.
Tours also are available.
Or seek orchids closer to home at Cedarburg Bog during 9 a.m. to noon nature walks June 10, June 17 and July 15. Cranes and flowers During summer and fall, the restored prairies at the International Crane Foundation northeast of Baraboo are ablaze with butterfly weed, compass plant, bee balm and wild indigo. This private non-profit conservation organization has successfully bred all of the planet's species of crane and is engaged in international efforts to restore the several endangered species of these beautiful wading birds. Even though saving cranes remains the foundation's first priority, the restored prairie offers an added bonus for those who love flowers. Some, but not all, paths are wheelchair accessible.