New Date Added for Popular Family Program
Spring at Hawthorn Hollow Nature Sanctuary means one thing—it’s Maple Sugarin’ Time! Volunteers and staff are preparing to tap sugar maples, collect sap, and transform it into delicious maple syrup. This year, maple sugaring programs will begin earlier than ever, with field trip bookings available starting February 18.
“Months of planning go into making this season a success,” says Ryan Retzke, Naturalist and Education Manager at Hawthorn Hollow. “We love sharing this hands-on experience with school groups and families. It’s a unique opportunity to connect with nature and learn firsthand how maple syrup is ma
de.”
Maple sugaring relies on the right weather conditions. When temperatures dip below freezing, sap is stored in the roots of the tree. As temperatures rise above freezing, the sap moves upward toward the branches. The key to harvesting is to collect the sap as it moves between the roots and branches, which typically occurs during spring’s freeze-thaw cycle. Across the Great Lakes region, it’s common to see buckets hanging from tree trunks during this time of year.
Of course, gathering sap is just the first step. To produce maple syrup, the sap must be boiled down until nearly all the water evaporates, leaving behind the rich, sticky syrup we love. It takes about 40 gallons of sap to make just one gallon of syrup! At Hawthorn Hollow, this process happens in Mary’s Sugar Shack, built in 2012 with support from the Mary Frost Ashley Foundation. Using a six-tray evaporator and a wood-burning stove, staff and volunteers work to bottle fresh maple syrup for all to enjoy.
To celebrate the season, Hawthorn Hollow is hosting its beloved “Maple Sugarin’ Time” program for families and adults on Saturday, March 1st and March 8th at 10 a.m. Participants will explore the history of maple sugaring, including traditional Native American techniques, and engage in hands-on activities like tree identification, tapping, and sap cooking. A crafting session will also be included.
This two-hour outdoor program requires registration. Please dress for the weather, as trails may be muddy or snowy. Cost: $15 per person; children three and under are free.
To register, visit:
https://hawthornhollow.ticketspice.com/maple-sugarin-2025
Don’t miss this limited-time experience—join us to celebrate Wisconsin’s maple sugaring heritage!
