Frolic

Ten miles east of Eau Claire, Beaver Creek Reserve encompasses 360 acres of picturesque natural habitat where people can discover, learn, and appreciate the mysteries of our natural world. The Wise Nature Center contains hands-on exhibits and displays. The Hobbs Observatory provides opportunities for viewing the nighttime sky. The butterfly house gives visitors an up close and personal experience with nature. The Citizen Science Center provides opportunities for area residents to become involved in valuable scientific research.

Enjoy horse drawn wagon and sleigh rides through 400 acres of natural woods along scenic and historic Paint Creek. Pavilions provide year-round fun for catered picnics around the bonfire. Two gas light log cabins are available for private catered meals for groups of 10 to 300. Groups under 10 can enjoy a carriage or sleigh ride. Cabin Ridge is ideal for weddings with a summer outdoor wedding chapel. A wedding official is available on site to assist in planning and to perform a unique ceremony. The wedding carriage provides the perfect touch for a special wedding. Be sure to check out the gift shop. Cabin Ridge is handicapped accessible. Reservations are needed.

Begin at the Interpretive Center, overlooking a former glacial lake bottom, with hands-on activities and natural, cultural, and glacial displays. Hike or snowshoe the 6.5 miles of accessible interpretive trails. Outpost camping is available. Interpretive Center generally open 8:30 am to 4:30 pm daily.

Crystal Cave is fun for the entire family! Discover the wonders of their cave with professionally guided tours. Descend more than 70 feet below ground to learn about the history, the geology, and the bats who call the cave home! There’s a lot to do above ground. Once you’re out of the cave, search for real gems and fossils at Prospector’s Creek. Enjoy their hiking trails, picnicking, and the educational gift shop. There’s always something new to enjoy and explore at Wisconsin’s longest cave! You are guaranteed an adventure that is truly under this world!

Browse through this remarkable circular museum featuring more than 500 species of birds collected by James Newman Clark from the 1870's through the 1920's.Two popular exhibits are the Bald Eagle and Golden Eagle, which require the University to hold a license to have them.The four dioramas depicting native birds in their natural habitat include: a white pine forest with ruffed grouse, a screech owl pouncing on a mouse, and the now extinct passenger pigeons.Located in the L.E. Phillips Science Hall.

Wilderness Pursuit is a horseback adventure business located near Neillsville. For over 30 seasons, they have offered trail rides on gentle, well-trained horses, guided by some of the best trail guides in WI. Trails wander into the scenic 133,000 acre Clark County Forest, passing through thick forest, open clearings and crossing the Wedge's creek. Offering ride packages to families, youth, scout troops, church groups and more - create a ride that makes the best experience for you. Ride for two hours or several days, cozy, log-sided cabins, mouth-watering campfire meals and camping gear if needed. With the seasons changing, there is always something fun to plan and with their private cabins available for family gatherings just think of the memories that will be made!

Trinity Equestrian Center, a horse-lover's paradise located four miles south of Eau Claire on Highway 37, is a "must see." Offering something for everyone, you will enjoy top quality year-round riding lessons for youth and adults, birthday parties featuring horseback instruction for kids and adults, creative group outings, summer day camps, school break camps, and Christian youth camps. Trinity provides premier boarding, training, and special events, all in a family-type atmosphere where everyone will feel right at home. Please visit Trinity soon.