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Big Foot Rock

A glacial erratic in the shape of a foot rests in the woods of a restored oak savanna prairie.

Whitewater, Wisconsin

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David Adam
Big Foot Rock   4dwadam / Atlas Obscura User
Pheasants on the ABC Sign   4dwadam / Atlas Obscura User
Over 215 different birds have been ID at the conservancy including these Trumpeter Swans   4dwadam / Atlas Obscura User
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A mile-long walk through a restored prairie takes one to a woods of large bur oak and shagbark hickory to the site of a large glacial erratic deposited by the Wisconsin glaciation period over 10,000 years ago. Local legend states that those who place an ice cube in the heel of Big Foot Rock and make a wish will witness their hands dry off and their wish come true. 

A walk through the prairie of this birding hotspot known as the Adam Birding Conservancy in spring offers the opportunity of seeing many wetland and grassland birds like yellow-headed blackbirds, bobolinks, eastern meadowlarks, and dicksissels. In summer, breeding trumpeter swans and their hatchlings can also be found in the ponds of the conservancy.

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Know Before You Go

The walk to the Big Foot Rock from the Parking Lot is a mile. Trails are maintained, but if conditions are wet, waterproof boots are recommended as is sunscreen, mosquito spray and water.  Enjoy in moderation!

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Published

October 18, 2024

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