Forest Exploration Center

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Wauwatosa, WI
Forest Exploration Center

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Demonstrating the ecological, economic, cultural, and social benefits of sustainable forest stewardship to the people of southeast Wisconsin.

For events and trail condition questions/concerns, email [email protected]. The Forest Exploration Center is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization that inspires understanding of the benefits of sustainable forestry through access to a managed urban woodland.

10/11/2026

Gorgeous October day to talk forest and river health with Milwaukee Riverkeeper!

10/07/2026

Can you guess how many acorns, both red and white, volunteers collected at our Acorn Collecting Workshop last Friday? Hint: it's in the thousands! Thank you to our awesome stewards who participated, learned about seed identification, and helped with reforestation efforts around Wisconsin AND right here at the Forest Exploration Center. And to Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources for the collaboration 🌳

10/03/2026

What's that beautiful forest on the cover of Milwaukee Magazine's October issue? It's us! We're delighted to be included in their feature of five spots to see fall foliage, plus a special mention of our art and ecology exhibits and accessible trail. If you haven't yet experienced the Forest canopy at its golden peak...you're in for something special!

09/23/2026

This urban forest isn’t just a beautiful spot to see fall color like this every October. It’s also an important and accessible example of how forests mitigate extreme weather and help keep our waterways healthy. Want to learn how? Join our guided hike "Urban Woodlands and Waterways" with Cheryl Nenn of Milwaukee Riverkeeper on October 11 along the FEC accessible trail. It's free, and there are just a few spots left! RSVP at our link in the comments.

09/22/2026

This Saturday 9/26, as part of Doors Open Milwaukee, we're celebrating the 5th annual Urban Wood Fest! Head over to The Urban Craftsman to meet members of the Urban Wood Network of Wisconsin-UWN-WI who will showcase wood products--including some made from species found at the FEC--and demonstrate milling and chainsawing. Artisans can also purchase pieces of a beautiful bur oak that came from the FEC. We can't wait to see what you're inspired to create from urban wood!

09/14/2026

We're getting ready for another great Tosa Green Summit this Saturday! Find the FEC's table in the Civic Center on 9/19 starting at 10 a.m. to learn about our accessible trail and sustainable forestry, and to sign up for free outdoor events. Follow Tosa Green Summit for more updates. See you there!

09/10/2026

Turn your next visit to the Forest into an adventure!

We’ve come up with 18 ideas to make the most of your moments in nature, no matter where you are. Kids will love these activities, too. September in the forest is an especially good time to find fungi, watch clouds and birds, and take photographs of leaves and seeds.

Share which activities are your most treasured, and what new adventures you create!

09/06/2026

Looking for some accessible, free, outdoor recreation this holiday weekend? Head to the Forest Exploration Center!

On your next visit, spot our new wayfinding marker, which points the way to the Trail Spur and shares trail access data and site-specific information, including distance, trail grade, cross slope, and other conditions along the Forest Loop.

By providing clear, detailed information about trail conditions, we help visitors make informed choices about whether the trail is accessible for them. This information also helps people prepare for their visit based on their individual needs. It’s one of many ways we support achievable and meaningful forest recreation for people of all abilities.

Check out detailed trail access information and a photo gallery of the forest trail, parking areas, and other site features on our website.

Know someone who hasn’t visited the Forest yet? Share what you enjoy about spending time here and pass along this trail information to help them know what to expect and feel ready for their first visit!

09/02/2026

Under the shade of the forest canopy...there's a world of fungi to explore! Walk the trail loop and see how fungi drive decomposition in the forest, transforming dead wood into habitat and nutrient-rich soil. Learn the many forms fungi take. Discover how their hidden work shapes the forest around you. Then, visit the Community-Curated Trail Spur to see how artists Mary Patscot Rocha and Patrick Zettel interpret these understory wonders. How many species can you find?

Address

1800 Forest Exploration Drive
Wauwatosa, WI
53213

Website

https://www.forestexplorationcenter.org/, https://forestexplorationcenter.org/subscribe

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