Know what’s good – nay, great – after a hike? Reward beers. It’s the premise behind Helvetiq’s Beer Hiking series of books, an Upper Midwest edition of which was released this year. Author Kristen Radaich curates 42 hikes through Minnesota, Wisconsin and the Upper Peninsula, each capped with a drink from a craft brewery. While most are in the Northwoods, we selected an excerpt closer to home.
Nestled along the shores of Lake Michigan, Kohler-Andrae State Park is a gem for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts with its mix of forests, wetlands, dunes and sandy beaches. At its center sits Kohler Park Dunes State Natural Area, about a 1-mile stretch of protected beach, dunes and interdunal wetlands, only a few of which exist in Wisconsin. The “cordwalk” trail – similar to a boardwalk but strung together on long cables for flexibility in the shifting sands – across the dunes aids in the preservation of this special ecosystem by providing a stable and dedicated walkway for visitors.
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Your hike begins along the woods at the trail’s south end. A short walk through the trees transports you to an entirely different environment of rolling hills covered in long grasses, shrubs and just an occasional cluster of trees. Here, vegetation has taken over the dunes, creating a more stable environment. Closer to Lake Michigan, the bare dunes continuously grow and shift as winds from the lake rearrange the sand. As a result, you’ll likely traverse several sections of cordwalk partially submerged in sand, which is worth considering as you select footwear for this adventure.
The cordwalk meanders through the dunes parallel to Lake Michigan’s shoreline, with several spurs leading down to the lake. About a half mile in, you’ll turn down the Wetland Overlook Spur Trail. Pause at the overlook bench to look for ducks, herons and other wetland wildlife; sunrise and sunset are especially good times to spot animals. At the far end of your journey, between a trail spur down to the lake and a grove of trees, is a beautiful overlook from the tops of the dunes down to the lake. Beyond are bathrooms, a picnic area and a dog-friendly beach. When you’ve had your fill, retrace your steps back to the trailhead at Parking Lot 5.
Beer Hiking Minnesota, Wisconsin & the Upper Peninsula is available at Boswell Book Co. and online for $25.
