As summer gradually gives way to autumn, the landscape at Crossroads at Big Creek is beginning its annual transformation. Vast seas of yellow and purple wildflowers blanket the preserves, signaling that cooler temperatures and shorter days are on the horizon. Goldenrods sway in late-summer breezes, asters provide splashes of purple across open fields, and the first hints of color are beginning to appear in the leaves overhead. While the changing season brings a touch of nostalgia, it also ushers in one of the most anticipated times of year at Crossroads. The transition between summer and fall is one of the richest and most dynamic periods on the preserve, when migrating wildlife, blooming flowers, ripening seeds, and changing foliage combine to create a landscape filled with color, movement, and discovery.
Fall festivities are just around the corner, including the highly anticipated Trails and Ales event, taking place on September 12 at 12:00 p.m. This popular gathering brings together brewers from throughout Door and Kewaunee counties, offering participants an opportunity to sample a wide variety of locally crafted beers while enjoying the beauty of the Crossroads trails. The event showcases the creativity and craftsmanship of local breweries while celebrating the unique natural resources that make Door County such a special place. Guests can spend the afternoon exploring scenic pathways, enjoying conversations with friends old and new, and discovering their next favorite locally brewed beverage.
Trails and Ales has become a favorite tradition for both longtime supporters and first-time visitors. The event combines the best of the season: locally produced beverages, community connections, and time spent outdoors surrounded by nature's changing colors. As guests stroll along the trails, they will experience the soft glow of leaves beginning to turn golden and the vibrant blooms that continue to brighten the landscape. The event encourages participants to slow their pace, take in the sights and sounds of the preserve, and appreciate the beauty that emerges as summer gradually yields to autumn.
The event celebrates more than just local breweries. It serves as an invitation to explore and appreciate the remarkable natural world that thrives throughout the preserves during late summer and early fall. Every walk along the trail offers a new discovery, whether it is a colorful wildflower attracting pollinators, a migrating insect stopping to fuel its journey, or a glimpse of wildlife preparing for the coming winter. This season reminds visitors that nature is constantly changing and that every visit to Crossroads offers a different experience.
Right now, the trails are alive with some of Crossroads' most fascinating visitors. Large numbers of darner dragonflies can be seen staging for their annual migration south. These powerful and agile fliers gather in impressive numbers before beginning their journey, often patrolling fields and wetlands in search of flying insects. Their presence is a reminder that migration is not limited to birds; many insects undertake remarkable seasonal movements that remain largely unnoticed by most people. Watching waves of dragonflies move through the preserve offers visitors a glimpse into one of nature's lesser-known migrations.
Visitors may also encounter another intriguing resident of the season: the goldenrod soldier beetle. These insects are often mistaken for wasps because of their yellow and black coloration, though they are entirely harmless. Their convincing disguise helps deter predators as they feed and search for mates among the blooming goldenrod. During this time of year, they can often be seen gathering pollen and nectar while contributing to the important work of pollination throughout the preserve. A patch of goldenrod in late summer can host dozens of beetles, bees, butterflies, and other insects, making it one of the most active and fascinating places to observe wildlife.
For those looking for an even deeper exploration of the season's offerings, Crossroads Naturalists will lead a guided hike through one of the preserve system's most unique natural areas. On September 9 at 1:30 p.m., participants are invited to join a guided exploration of the Ida Bay Preserve. This special hike will highlight the preserve's distinctive plant communities, seasonal wildflowers, and diverse habitats while also sharing the rich human and natural history of the site. Along the way, visitors will learn how the landscape has changed over time, how restoration efforts have shaped the property, and why Ida Bay remains an important part of Door County's ecological heritage. Whether you are a longtime nature enthusiast or simply curious about the changing season, the guided hike offers an opportunity to experience the preserve through the eyes of a naturalist and gain a deeper appreciation for the plants, animals, and stories that make this landscape so special.
Together, these events celebrate everything that makes autumn at Crossroads memorable: community, conservation, local flavors, and the ever-changing beauty of the natural world. As fields glow with gold and purple and wildlife prepares for the coming season, there is no better time to get outside, explore the trails, and experience the wonder of fall in Door County.
Upcoming Programs
Wednesday, September 9
1:30 p.m. | Wandering Wednesday
Join a naturalist-led hike through the preserve. Enjoy easy walking and seasonal discoveries during this approximately one-hour outing. Well-behaved dogs are welcome on leash.
Registration is not required. This program is free and open to the public.
Meet at: Ida Bay Preserve 1195 Canal Rd Sturgeon Bay Wisconsin
Saturday, September 12
12:00-3:30 p.m. | Trails & Ales
Stroll the trails and enjoy beer from all of the finest brewmasters in Door & Kewaunee Counties! The Ale Trail is approximately one-half mile long and includes beer sampling stations from all of the Door County and Kewaunee County breweries. This amazing fundraiser helps supports Crossroads mission of inspiring environmental stewardship in learners of all ages and all backgrounds.
Location: 2041 Michigan St Sturgeon Bay, Wisconsin.
Tuesday, September 15
10:00 a.m. | Junior Nature Club
Six-week program for ages 3-5 and their adults. Each week, explore an aspect of winter. Drop in. Registration is not required.
Meet at: The Collins Learning Center, 2041 Michigan St, Sturgeon Bay, WI
Tuesday, September 15
5:30 pm | Preparing Your Bees for Winter
The Door County Beekeepers Club invites you to attend this monthly program to learn more about winterizing bees presented by Jonathan Parsons, Len Arsenault, and Max Martin.
Meet at: The Collins Learning Center, 2041 Michigan St, Sturgeon Bay, WI
