.jpg)
WALK WITH Retired Geologist Ken Bradbury and Donna Thomas
Please join retired WI State Geologist Ken Bradbury for a walk to explore some of the special geological features of Donald County Park. Donald Park lies in the Driftless Area, the distinctive region in southwestern Wisconsin that was untouched by glaciers and that is characterized by rugged topography with intriguing rock formations and cold, clear streams and springs. Our walk visits examples of these features, including Little and Big Springs, and will also stop at a 19th century settler's cabin site.
Retired Geologist Ken Bradbury will lead our group along various paths, selecting paths appropriate for the weather and footing.
Donna Thomas, member of the Friends Group associated with Donald Park will tell us stories from the original European farm families.
This walk could have been labeled: The Fascinating History of Donald County Park, and the Two Women Who Made it Happen.
We will hear about the history of the farms and the geological foundation of the land. The walk is approximately 1 mile to the springs area over mostly gently sloping terrain, on either a mowed or gravel surface. The trail may be muddy in places, depending on rainfall in the days preceding the walk.
I recommend hiking poles for anyone who sometimes uses them if you want the group to drop down from Pop's Knoll, as we did the other day.
DRIVING DIRECTIONS:FROM MADISON
From Madison, head west on Hwy 18/151. Take the Hwy G exit; continue on Hwy G to the T-intersection with State Hwy 92, just at the edge of the small village of Mt. Vernon. Turn right onto Hwy 92 and proceed about 1.5 miles to the Pop's Knoll parking lot for Donald Park (opposite Messerschmidt Rd and Town Hall Rd). From Hwy 92 turn left onto the parking lot drive and proceed to the parking area.
Once parked, walk over to the Shelter to meet the group. Outhouse facilities are located at the shelter.
Remember to arrive 10 minutes early so that you can be checked in and hear the introduction.
guest policy
Members must register their guests. Each PLATO member is entitled to bring one non-member guest per trip. (Members may bring more than one near the registration deadline date if seats are available.
covid policy
1. Masks are not required, but persons wishing to wear a mask are encouraged to do so.
2. Health protocols in place at any PLATO event/class venue must be observed.
3. Please stay home if you are not feeling well. If you are part of a trip, please inform the organizer of your decision.
4. Health protocols are subject to change as conditions change; PLATO reserves the right to make changes to protocols accordingly.
Mail-in registration form
If you are not registering online, you can print, complete, and mail in this <Registration Form> with your check.
Contact information
For further information, contact the trip organizer Mike DiIorio, mdiiorio@tds.net or 608 257 9164
