Exploring Michigan's Keweenaw Peninsula: Hidden Gems & Local Heritage

Exploring Michigan's Keweenaw Peninsula: Hidden Gems & Local Heritage

Exploring Michigan's Keweenaw Peninsula: Hidden Gems & Local Heritage with Brad Barnett Welcome back to the Outdoor Adventure Series! In this episode, Howard Fox sits down with Brad Barnett, the executive director of Visit Keweenaw, the destination marketing organization for Michigan's picturesque Keweenaw Peninsula.  Known for its breathtaking natural landscapes, vibrant Finnish-American heritage, and abundant opportunities for outdoor recreation, the Keweenaw Peninsula is a hidden gem at the northernmost tip of Michigan's Upper Peninsula. Together, Howard and Brad explore what makes this region a true four-season destination, from its cool summer escapes and dazzling fall colors to epic lake-effect snowfalls and stunning dark skies perfect for viewing the northern lights.  Tune in to discover how Visit Keweenaw is redefining sustainable tourism, supporting the local community, and inviting adventurers far and wide to experience the magic of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. Whether you’re craving scenic trails, historic charm, or a place to simply slow down and reconnect with nature, this episode will have you planning your trip to the Keweenaw Peninsula. DISCUSSION 1. Introduction and Welcome * Howard introduces the Outdoor Adventure Series and welcomes Brad Barnett as the guest 00:06 * Brad's role as Executive Director of Visit Keweenaw 00:14 * Personal reflections from Howard Fox regarding visits to the Keweenaw Peninsula and Michigan 00:59 2. Geographic Overview of the Keweenaw Peninsula * Explanation of Michigan’s geography ("the hand" method) and Keweenaw’s position 02:29 * Proximity to Lake Superior and its significance 02:44 * Fun fact about the latitude being north of most of Canada's population 03:16 3. Weather and Climate * Comparison between Nevada (Boulder City) heat and Keweenaw’s cooler temperatures 03:57 * Lake Superior’s moderating effect on summer and winter climate 04:08 * Introduction of the term "coolcation" 04:14 * Keweenaw as a destination for beating the heat 04:30 4. Brad Barnett’s Journey to Keweenaw and Role as Executive Director * Personal background and move from Kentucky for a doctoral program at Michigan Technological University 04:53 * Family experiences and attractions to outdoor recreation 05:19 * Discussion of the region’s small population and initial economic development work 06:00 * Path to working with the Destination Marketing Organization 06:12 5. Keweenaw Peninsula as a Four-Season Destination * Discussion on the tourism "seasons" and what each offers 06:56 * Summer: beaches, hiking, biking, access to nature 07:29 * Winter: 300 inches of lake effect snow, snow sports, warmer winter temps due to Lake Superior 07:45 * Spring: waterfalls, dark skies, fewer bugs and crowds 08:43 * Fall: vibrant autumn colors aided by location and climate 09:16 6. Dark Skies and Northern Lights * Howard shares personal desire to experience dark skies in Keweenaw 10:27 * Discussion of minimal light pollution and visibility of northern lights 10:55 * Importance of Lake Superior’s geography to stargazing experiences 11:24 7. Evolution of Visit Keweenaw as a Destination Marketing Organization (DMO) * Historical focus of the DMO and its small initial scope 12:38 * Impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on DMO’s approach and responsibilities 13:21 * Broadening focus to stewardship, economic development, and community engagement 13:42 * Emphasis on responsible tourism and intentional branding 15:01 8. Community Response and Engagement * Impact of visitation on residents and their new role as brand ambassadors 15:38 * Change in visitor demographics: new, younger, and more affluent travelers post-pandemic 16:50 * Increased pride among residents and new entrepreneurial opportunities 17:52 * Recognition of the value of Keweenaw as a destination and readiness to cater to a broader audience 18:47 9. Website Tour: Visit Keweenaw * Howard and Brad conduct a virtual walkthrough of the Visit Keweenaw website 20:10 * Site highlights: activities, events, Finnish American heritage 21:02 * Destination development and reinvestment in communities 21:45 * Transparency on how tourism dollars fund local projects and grants 22:14 * New focus on sustainability and stewardship resources for visitors 23:05 10. Stewardship, Sustainability, and Global Engagement * Participation in global tourism think tank (the "Collective") 24:12 * Keweenaw’s approach to balancing tourism with community sustainability 24:39 * Elevating local organizations and creating opportunities for visitors to volunteer 25:49 * Encouraging stewardship among visitors and positive customer experiences 26:10 11. Economic Impact and Support for Local Lodging * Importance of staying with local lodging partners to support DMO efforts 27:32 * Revenue sources for Visit Keweenaw (bed tax, grants) 28:04 * Visitor spending helps fund responsible recreation and economic development 28:23 12. Storytelling and The Power of Small Communities * Features on the website such as “The Crossing Place” web series 30:02 * Importance of sharing stories of volunteers and local community members 30:13 * Social media presence and connection channels 30:38 13. Personal Fulfillment and Aha Moments in Destination Work * Howard and Brad discuss the personal rewards of working in tourism 31:27 * Creating impactful moments for visitors and the satisfaction of seeing community projects succeed 31:57 * Example: Opening of Houghton Douglas Falls site and visitor reactions 32:49 14. Travel’s Broader Impact and Reflections * Deeper message: importance of simple travel moments and connection to nature 35:01 * Tourism’s power to unite, inspire, and foster empathy in a polarized world 35:54 * Anecdotes connecting travel to well-being, self-discovery, and community 36:19 15. Closing Remarks * Recap of Brad Barnett’s passion and Keweenaw’s uniqueness 39:47 * Encouragement to visit Keweenaw Peninsula and connect with it as a destination 40:08 * How to follow and contact Visit Keweenaw via their website and social media 40:14 MEDIA https://www.travelandtourworld.com/news/article/keweenaw-peninsula-becomes-the-epicenter-of-sustainable-tourism-in-2026-michigan-summit-will-lead-the-world/ [https://www.travelandtourworld.com/news/article/keweenaw-peninsula-becomes-the-epicenter-of-sustainable-tourism-in-2026-michigan-summit-will-lead-the-world/] https://estonianworld.com/culture/a-michigan-city-named-the-finno-ugric-capital-of-culture-2026/ [https://estonianworld.com/culture/a-michigan-city-named-the-finno-ugric-capital-of-culture-2026/] https://www.uppermichiganssource.com/2026/04/28/city-houghton-receives-first-ever-bird-city-designation-up/ [https://www.uppermichiganssource.com/2026/04/28/city-houghton-receives-first-ever-bird-city-designation-up/] LEARN MORE To learn more about Visit Keweenaw, visit their website at https://www.visitkeweenaw.com [https://www.visitkeweenaw.com] or on these social sites: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/VisitKeweenaw [https://www.facebook.com/VisitKeweenaw] Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/visit_keweenaw [https://www.instagram.com/visit_keweenaw] NEXT STEPS Visit us at https://outdooradventureseries.com [https://outdooradventureseries.com/] to like, comment, and share our episodes. Keywords Brad Barnett, Visit Keweenaw, Lake Superior, Michigan History, UP Travel, Copper Country, Michigan Festivals, Pure Michigan, Outdoor Adventure Series, Podcast Interview #VisitKeweenaw #LakeSuperior #MichiganHistory #UPTravel #CopperCountry #MichiganFestivals #PureMichigan #OutdoorAdventureSeries #PodcastInterview My Favorite Podcast Tools:   1. Production by Descript [https://www.descript.com/?lmref=VgjX0A] 2. Hosting Buzzsprout [https://www.buzzsprout.com/?referrer_id=191396] 3. Show Notes by Castmagic [https://www.castmagic.io/?via=howard] 4. Website powered by Podpage [https://www.podpage.com/?via=howard] 5. Be a Podcast Guest by PodMatch [https://www.joinpodmatch.com/outdoor_adventure_series] 6. Banner Customization by Nano Banana & Canva

Exploring Desert Art Program Innovation at the Goldwell Open Air Museum

Exploring Desert Art Program Innovation at the Goldwell Open Air Museum with Zoë Camper and Nichole Hanson. Welcome back to another episode of the Outdoor Adventure Series! Today, Our journey continues at the Goldwell Open Air Museum, located just a few miles west of Beatty, Nevada—a place filled with history, art, and the stunning scenery of the Amargosa Valley.  Joining us are two passionate board members, Zoë Camper and Nichole Hanson, who share their experiences living in the desert, their connection to the unique outdoor art installations (including the famous "Ghosties"), and the ongoing efforts to preserve and promote this incredible site.  We’ll hear about their backgrounds, the museum's programming, and the quirky charm that keeps visitors coming back—whether it’s for the art, the history, or just to relax on the museum porch and soak in the desert landscape. Get ready for stories of community, unexpected encounters, and the magic that happens where art meets the wild Nevada outdoors. DISCUSSION 1. Guest Introductions * Introduction of Zoë Camper as a board member and artist * Introduction of Nichole Hanson as a board member 2. Acclimatizing to the Desert Climate * Howard asks Zoë about adapting to the weather * Zoë shares anecdotes about running in the dry heat and comparisons with London 3. Personal Backgrounds and Connection to the Museum * Zoë discusses her move to the U.S. and connection to Las Vegas * Howard Fox and Zoë joke about pronouncing "Beatty" * Nichole shares her background from Salt Lake City and move to Las Vegas * Nichole recounts her first experience with Goldwell in 1994 4. Introduction to Goldwell’s Artwork ("The Ghosties") * Howard and Nichole discuss the sculptures known as “the Ghosties” * Nichole explains her path to joining the Goldwell board, encouraged by Zoë 5. Significance and Experience of the Goldwell Open Air Museum * Nichole describes her enchanting first visit and deeper appreciation for the area's history and art * Zoë elaborates on the process of integrating with the local community and developing programming 6. Educational and Community Programming * Zoë discusses the importance of listening to local input before acting * Her background as a certified guide in London and application to Goldwell * Details on educational programs, guided walks, artist residency program, and artists' wall * The visitor center’s regular operation and increasing international visitors 7. Personal Discovery and Regional Appeal * Zoë and Howard share their first encounters with Goldwell and the nearby region * Mention of photography meetups and the unique desert atmosphere 8. Marketing, Branding, and Signage Initiatives * Nichole on transitioning skills from commercial marketing to nonprofit tourism and branding * Efforts to differentiate Goldwell from Rhyolite ghost town * Work on updated signage funded by a Travel Nevada grant * Anecdote about burros interacting with the new sign 9. Vision for the Future of the Museum * Howard prompts about long-term goals for the museum * Zoë emphasizes preservation of art and landscape * Engagement with specialists for environmental surveying and sculpture safety * Desire to maintain community connections and educational outreach 10. Facilities and Visitor Experience * Discussion of the visitor center, art displays, history, and merchandise (T-shirts, etc.) * Importance of creating storytelling experiences for visitors * Zoë explains the appeal of wandering the grounds and discovering the local landscape and history 11. Stories, Folklore, and Local Color * Zoë and Nichole share quirky local stories and fables that emerge from spending time at the museum * Reflection on the unique passage of time and the peaceful experience of the Amargosa Valley 12. Additional Resources and How to Learn More * Zoë shares her website for listeners to view her art: zoecamper.com * Nichole provides the Goldwell Open Air Museum website and social media handles 13. Podcast Closing * Recap of the episode’s guests and their contributions * Summary of the museum's unique environment and ongoing programs * Information on where to find the podcast episode online * Invitation for listeners to visit Goldwell and enjoy the local art and history LEARN MORE Goldwell Open Air Museum: https://www.goldwellmuseum.org/ [https://www.goldwellmuseum.org/] Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Goldwell-Open-Air-Museum-51115761339 [https://www.facebook.com/Goldwell-Open-Air-Museum-51115761339] Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/goldwellmuseum/ [https://www.instagram.com/goldwellmuseum/]  Rhyolite: https://travelnevada.com/ghost-town/rhyolite-ghost-town/ [https://travelnevada.com/ghost-town/rhyolite-ghost-town/] Beatty Museum & Historical Society: http://www.beattymuseum.org/ [http://www.beattymuseum.org/] Travel Nevada: https://travelnevada.com/ [https://travelnevada.com/] Nevada Arts Council: https://www.nvartscouncil.org/ [https://www.nvartscouncil.org/] ZoëCamper.Com: https://zoecamper.com/ [https://zoecamper.com/] NEXT STEPS Visit us at https://outdooradventureseries.com [https://outdooradventureseries.com/] to like, comment, and share our episodes. KEYWORDS Zoë Camper, Nichole Hanson, Goldwell Open Air Museum, Desert Art, Nevada Art, Beatty Chamber of Commerce, Rhyolite, Travel Nevada, Nevada Arts Council, Outdoor Adventure Series, Podcast Interview #ZoëCamper #NicholeHanson #GoldwellOpenAirMuseum #DesertArt #NevadaArt #BeattyChamberofCommerce #Rhyolite #TravelNevada #NevadaArtsCouncil #OutdoorAdventureSeries #PodcastInterview  My Favorite Podcast Tools:   1. Production by Descript [https://www.descript.com/?lmref=VgjX0A] 2. Hosting Buzzsprout [https://www.buzzsprout.com/?referrer_id=191396] 3. Show Notes by Castmagic [https://www.castmagic.io/?via=howard] 4. Website powered by Podpage [https://www.podpage.com/?via=howard] 5. Be a Podcast Guest by PodMatch [https://www.joinpodmatch.com/outdoor_adventure_series] 6. Banner Customization by Nano Banana & Canva

Exploring Goldwell Open Air Museum: Art, History, and Inspiration in the Nevada Desert

Welcome to the Outdoor Adventure Series, where we explore unique destinations and meet the passionate individuals who bring them to life. In today’s episode, host Howard Fox visits the Goldwell Open Air Museum [https://www.goldwellmuseum.org/] near the ghost town of Rhyolite [https://travelnevada.com/ghost-town/rhyolite-ghost-town/] in Southern Nevada—a remarkable outdoor art space just off the highway to Death Valley National Park [https://travelnevada.com/parks-recreational-areas/death-valley-national-park/].  Joined by guests Steve Dudrow, a night sky photographer and podcaster, and Patrick Taylor, a Beatty resident, museum board member, and artist, we dive into the power of art, the healing spirit of the desert, and the vibrant creative community that thrives here. Together, we’ll discuss personal journeys, the inspiration found in Nevada’s landscapes, artistic collaborations, and the unique energy that draws people from around the world to this one-of-a-kind museum. Whether you’re an adventurer at heart, an art lover, or curious about hidden gems in the American West, this episode promises stories of transformation, creativity, and connection to place. DISCUSSION Introduction to the Podcast and Location * Howard Fox introduces the Outdoor Adventure Series podcast 00:06 * Location: Goldwell Open Air Museum in Rhyolite, near Beatty, Southern Nevada 00:15 * Brief mention of guests: Steve Dudrow and Patrick Taylor 00:32 Background on Beatty and Rhyolite * Description of Beatty’s location relative to Las Vegas 01:23 * Overview of the Rhyolite ghost town’s history and present-day appeal 01:44 * Attraction for artists and photographers, including night sky photography 02:01 Guests’ Introductions and Backgrounds * Steve Dudrow: Introduction, Nevada resident, photographer, author 02:55 * Patrick Taylor: Resident of Beatty, board member and volunteer at Goldwell Open Air Museum 00:46 Artistic Journeys and Personal Stories * Steve Dudrow’s journey: From photography to seeing himself as an artist, encouragement from friends 03:40 * The influence of podcasting and curiosity on Steve Dudrow’s art and writing 04:47 * Patrick Taylor’s background as a Marine and police officer 07:37 * Injury during military service leading to 13 spine surgeries 08:07 * Using art as therapy and personal growth through creativity 08:35 * Encouragement for veterans and others facing hardship 08:45 * The emotional and healing impact of art for Patrick Taylor 09:08 Artistic Process and the Power of Noticing * Steve Dudrow: Importance of curiosity and noticing details in one's environment 10:18 * Transformation through engagement with art and meeting people 10:44 * Patrick Taylor: Letting artwork speak for itself without excessive explanation 07:05 Podcasting and Storytelling * The role of podcasting as a form of journalism and storytelling 05:01 * Howard relates podcasting to coaching and holding space for guests' stories 06:04 * Discussion on interviewing techniques, curiosity, and deep listening 05:28 Community and Engagement in Beatty * Patrick’s involvement in Beatty: Chamber of Commerce, Beatty Museum, volunteer work 16:06 * Importance of community, history, and local relationships 16:17 Life and Inspiration in the Desert * Desert’s beauty, architecture, microclimates, and inspiration for artists 12:42 * Healing and grounding qualities of nature and outdoor presence 14:05 * Patrick shares how the landscape’s color, space, and night skies inspire his work 15:14 Involvement with the Goldwell Open Air Museum * Steve participates in making the “bottle couch” art installation 16:35 * Discussion on the museum’s unique features and visitor reactions 17:21 * International draw: Visitors from England and France 18:23 * The joy, peace, and legacy of contributing to the museum 18:34 Sharing and Celebrating Art * Display and significance of Patrick’s recent charcoal drawing 20:14 * Inspiration from other artists and continual artistic growth 21:21 * Ways to learn more about Steve Dudrow (The Artbox Podcast) and Patrick Taylor (in-person at Goldwell) 21:53 Conclusion and Visitor Information * Howard encourages podcast listeners and museum visitors to experience Beatty, Rhyolite, and the Goldwell Open Air Museum 22:09 * Podcast availability, show notes, and platforms 22:52 LEARN MORE Goldwell Open Air Museum: https://www.goldwellmuseum.org/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Goldwell-Open-Air-Museum-51115761339 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/goldwellmuseum/ [https://www.instagram.com/goldwellmuseum/]  Rhyolite: https://travelnevada.com/ghost-town/rhyolite-ghost-town/ [https://travelnevada.com/ghost-town/rhyolite-ghost-town/] Beatty Museum & Historical Society: http://www.beattymuseum.org/ [http://www.beattymuseum.org/] The Art Box Podcast: https://theartboxpodcast.com/ [https://theartboxpodcast.com/] The Art of Noticing: https://www.amazon.com/Art-Noticing-Steve-Dudrow/dp/B0GY8X4627/ [https://www.amazon.com/Art-Noticing-Steve-Dudrow/dp/B0GY8X4627/] Sandcastle Windows: Standing Inside a Memory: https://www.amazon.com/Sandcastle-Windows-Standing-Inside-Memory/dp/B0H32R6MYG/ [https://www.amazon.com/Sandcastle-Windows-Standing-Inside-Memory/dp/B0H32R6MYG/]  The Fibonacci sequence: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fibonacci_sequence [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fibonacci_sequence] Travel Nevada: https://travelnevada.com/ [https://travelnevada.com/] Nevada Arts Council: https://www.nvartscouncil.org/ [https://www.nvartscouncil.org/] NEXT STEPS Visit us at https://outdooradventureseries.com [https://outdooradventureseries.com/] to like, comment, and share our episodes. KEYWORDS Goldwell Open Air Museum, The Art Box Podcast, Steve Dudrow, Patrick Taylor, Desert Art, Nevada Art, Beatty Chamber of Commerce, Rhyolite, Travel Nevada, Nevada Arts Council, Outdoor Adventure Series, Podcast Interview #GoldwellOpenAirMuseum #TheArtBoxPodcast #SteveDudrow #PatrickTaylor #DesertArt #NevadaArt #BeattyChamberofCommerce #Rhyolite #TravelNevada #NevadaArtsCouncil #OutdoorAdventureSeries #PodcastInterview  My Favorite Podcast Tools:   1. Production by Descript [https://www.descript.com/?lmref=VgjX0A] 2. Hosting Buzzsprout [https://www.buzzsprout.com/?referrer_id=191396] 3. Show Notes by Castmagic [https://www.castmagic.io/?via=howard] 4. Website powered by Podpage [https://www.podpage.com/?via=howard] 5. Be a Podcast Guest by PodMatch [https://www.joinpodmatch.com/outdoor_adventure_series] 6. Banner Customization by Nano Banana & Canva

Madison Boats: Water, Wellness, and Community Building

Madison Boats: Water, Wellness, and Community Building - Welcome back to the Outdoor Adventure Series! In today’s episode, we have another spotlight on Madison, Wisconsin—host of the 2026 Outdoor Writers Association of America annual conference. Joining us is Tyler Leeper, owner of Madison Boats, whose lifelong passion for the water has transformed into a thriving community-building business on Madison’s beautiful lakes.  From humble beginnings as a young entrepreneur to developing programs that connect people of all backgrounds to outdoor experiences, Tyler shares how Madison Boats has evolved beyond paddling into a hub of events, education, and inclusivity. We’ll explore the city’s unique urban outdoor landscape, creative events on the water, the crucial role of environmental stewardship, and how Madison Boats welcomes visitors for unforgettable adventures. Whether you’re a seasoned paddler, an outdoor enthusiast, or simply looking for your next travel destination, this episode dives deep into the power of connecting with nature—and each other—right in the heart of Madison. DISCUSSION Introduction & Setting the Scene * Welcome to the Outdoor Adventure Series podcast * This episode is sponsored by Destination Madison, Host of the OWAA's Annual Conference * Focus on Madison, Wisconsin as a destination for events and recreation * Introduction of Tyler Leeper, owner of Madison Boats * Tyler’s greeting and excitement for hosting the conference Tyler's Background and Connection to Water * Childhood experiences with watercraft and family vacations * Growing up in Wisconsin and moving to Madison * International travel and attending college in Portland, Oregon * Returning to Madison and entering the boating business in his 20's Developing Madison Boats as a Business * Early business goals and financial aspirations * Learning business through classes and practical application * Balancing work in a medical startup with growing the boathouse * Shift from personal enjoyment to community building focus * Emphasis on selling community and time with others vs. skill-based activities Community Engagement and Activities * Transition to activities that prioritize bringing people together * Range of watercraft offered (duck and swan paddle boats, paddle boards, kayaks, pontoons) * Focus on accessible, user-friendly equipment to lower participation barriers Events and Creative Programming * Hosting 152 public-facing events annually across 120 days * Examples: SUP yoga, sound bath sessions, Learn-to-Paddle programs * Signature events like full moon paddles, burgers on the bay with live bands * Importance of creativity and seasonal business evaluation (R&D during off-season) Staffing and Team Structure * Growth from 6 to 130 employees, relying on a mix of young staff and retirees * Seasonal employment and job structure * Approach to training and job expectations (boater safety license, in-service training, shadow shifts) * Mentoring and fostering responsibility in young employees Accessibility, Diversity, and Community Partnerships * Commitment to accessibility for people with disabilities * Working with organizations to make outings possible for all * Supporting diverse hiring programs and partnerships with local schools and youth groups Environmental Stewardship and Local Nature * Madison’s unique combination of urban and natural environments * Improvement in lake health and community involvement * Acknowledgement of Clean Lakes Alliance [https://www.cleanlakesalliance.org/] and community-driven lake advocacy * Personal anecdotes highlighting urban wildlife and community experiences (e.g., bullfrog, cranes at events) Madison Boats Website & User Experience * Overview of web design philosophy for easy navigation * Features of the website: locations, rental options, events, memberships, camps * Quick tour and explanation of the three main boathouse locations (Wingra, Brittingham, Marshall) * Specifics about each location’s offerings and unique features Participation in OWAA's Upcoming Conferences * Planned involvement in Outdoor Writers Association of America’s annual conference * Description of special excursions, e.g., pontoon and kayak trips interwoven with local history and nature * Pre-conference and ongoing discounts for conference participants Reflection on Lifestyle and Career Choices * Discussion on the importance of loving one’s work vs. financial gain * Tyler’s "aha" moments and decision to maintain the business as a lifestyle choice * Challenges of balancing growth, personal enjoyment, and responsibilities as an entrepreneur * Value of direct community engagement and hands-on work Recommendations for Visitors and Final Thoughts * Encouragement to explore Madison and take an extra day for local experiences * Information on where to find Madison Boats online (website, social media) * Summary of Madison’s appeal as a water-focused, four-season destination Podcast Conclusion & Sponsor Acknowledgement * Recap of episode, Tyler’s philosophy, and community building * Where to find the podcast and Madison Boats online * Invitation for future episodes and thanks to Destination Madison for sponsorship LEARN MORE Website: To learn more about the Madison Boats, visit their website at https://www.madisonboats.com/ [https://www.madisonboats.com/] or their social sites: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/marshallboatsandcafe [https://www.facebook.com/marshallboatsandcafe] Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/wingraboats/ [https://www.facebook.com/wingraboats/] Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/brittinghamboats [https://www.facebook.com/brittinghamboats] Destination Madison: https://www.visitmadison.com/ [https://www.visitmadison.com/] NEXT STEPS Visit us at https://outdooradventureseries.com [https://outdooradventureseries.com/] to like, comment, and share our episodes. KEYWORDS Madison Boats, Marshall Boats, Lake Mendota, Wingra Boats, Lake Wingra, Brittingham Boats, Lake Monona, Destination Madison, Outdoor Adventure Series, Podcast Interview, OWAA #MadisonBoats #MarshallBoats #LakeMendota #WingraBoats #LakeWingra #BrittinghamBoats #LakeMonona #DestinationMadison #OutdoorAdventureSeries #PodcastInterview #OWAA #OWAA2026 My Favorite Podcast Tools:   1. Production by Descript [https://www.descript.com/?lmref=VgjX0A] 2. Hosting Buzzsprout [https://www.buzzsprout.com/?referrer_id=191396] 3. Show Notes by Castmagic [https://www.castmagic.io/?via=howard] 4. Website powered by Podpage [https://www.podpage.com/?via=howard] 5. Be a Podcast Guest by PodMatch [https://www.joinpodmatch.com/outdoor_adventure_series] 6. Banner Customization by Nano Banana & Canva

Wisconsin’s Ice Age Trail: Expert Hiking & Alliance Insights

Welcome back to the Outdoor Adventure Series! In this episode, Howard sits down with Melissa Pierick, Director of Marketing and Community Relations for the Ice Age Trail Alliance. Melissa shares her personal journey of discovering the Ice Age National Scenic Trail—an incredible 1,200-mile adventure that winds through Wisconsin, right past the state capital of Madison.  Melissa offers insight into the trail’s all-season appeal, the vibrant community of “thousand milers,” and the surprising beauty waiting around every corner. We’ll also learn about the Alliance’s dedicated volunteers, the communities supporting the trail, and how you can get involved— Plus, we'll get a sneak peek at upcoming events, including a unique, behind-the-scenes opportunity for attendees of the OWAA's annual conference in Madison this August to explore future trail segments and enjoy Wisconsin’s unrivaled hospitality.  Get ready to be inspired to get outside and start your own adventure on the Ice Age Trail! DISCUSSION Introduction and Welcome * Introduction of Melissa Pierick, her role, and a fun fact about Madison 00:34, 00:49 Melissa Background and Trail Discovery * Howard asks about her connection to the Madison area and the Ice Age Trail 01:01 * Melissa describes living in Wisconsin and not discovering the trail until 2019 01:16 * Reflections on discovering new places through the trail 03:49, 04:49 Ice Age Trail Details and "Thousand Miler" Journey * The 1200-mile span of the trail 05:36 * "Thousand miler" achievement and culture 06:00 * Contrast with thru-hiking culture on other trails 06:06 Trail as an All-Season Experience * Discussion about hiking in various seasons 07:55 Community Involvement and Support Along the Trail * Local community engagement 09:10 * Overview of the Ice Age Trail’s passage through over 130 communities 10:09 * Description of official Ice Age Trail communities and their partnership with the Alliance 10:43 * Local business involvement and hospitality 11:15 Trail Use and Permitted Activities * Permitted trail activities beyond hiking 12:50 * Trail is designated as a footpath (hiking, snowshoeing, skiing, running, backpacking, walking) 13:08 * Exceptions for biking on certain segments (urban paths, rails-to-trails) 13:27 * Rules for “thousand miler” qualification (must be on foot) 13:46 Trail Geography and Hiker Demographics * Map overview and curiosity about hiker origins 14:14 * Explanation of trail route across Wisconsin and locations connected 14:31 * Hiker demographics: Wisconsin, nearby states (Illinois, Minnesota), international visitors 14:51, 15:29 Trail History and Organizational Structure * National Scenic Trail designation in 1980 16:37 * Historical background: conservationist origins, failed national park effort, scientific reserve units 16:52 * Organization of the alliance, dating back to the 1950s 18:27 Volunteerism on the Ice Age Trail * Volunteer numbers (around 2,000 annually) 19:12 * Wide range of volunteer activities 20:15 Website Tour and Online Resources * Guided walk-through of the Alliance website 23:24 * Highlights of the interactive trail map and how it's updated 24:21 * Explanation of key map features 25:37 * Exploration of specific trail features (Devil’s Lake, ferry crossing, local ice cream shops) 28:43 * Elevation range and features 29:562 Upcoming OWAA Conference and Post-Tour * Details about the August OWAA conference in Madison 38:17 * Description of the post-conference tour with the Ice Age Trail Alliance 34:36 Reflections on Meaningful Work and Community Impact * “aha moments” and meaningful experiences 39:06 * Melissa discusses gratitude, the supportive hiker community, and the fulfilling impact of her work 39:21 "Obituary Builder" Insight * Meaningful, memorable life activities over career achievements 43:00 LEARN MORE Website: To learn more about the Ice Age Trail Alliance, visit their website at https://IceAgeTrail.org or their social sites: Facebook 1: https://www.facebook.com/iceagetrail [https://www.facebook.com/iceagetrail]        Facebook 2: https://www.facebook.com/groups/525543867532782/ [https://www.facebook.com/groups/525543867532782/] Instagram: http://instagram/iceagetrailorg [http://instagram/iceagetrailorg] Destination Madison: https://www.visitmadison.com/ [https://www.visitmadison.com/] NEXT STEPS Visit us at https://outdooradventureseries.com [https://outdooradventureseries.com/] to like, comment, and share our episodes. KEYWORDS Ice Age Trail Alliance, Ice Age Trail, Thousand Miler, Monty the Mammoth, Destination Madison, Madison Wisconsin, National Scenic Trail, National Park Service, Outdoor Adventure Series, Podcast Interview, OWAA #IceAgeTrailAlliance #IceAgeTrail #ThousandMiler #MontytheMammoth #DestinationMadison #MadisonWisconsin #NationalScenicTrail #NationalParkService #OutdoorAdventureSeries #PodcastInterview #OWAA #OWAA2026 My Favorite Podcast Tools:   1. Production by Descript [https://www.descript.com/?lmref=VgjX0A] 2. Hosting Buzzsprout [https://www.buzzsprout.com/?referrer_id=191396] 3. Show Notes by Castmagic [https://www.castmagic.io/?via=howard] 4. Website powered by Podpage [https://www.podpage.com/?via=howard] 5. Be a Podcast Guest by PodMatch [https://www.joinpodmatch.com/outdoor_adventure_series] 6. Banner Customization by Nano Banana & Canva