SPRING GREEN- My return visit to Phoebe Point Trail was sparked by a couple of events. The first being, my inability to access the trail at my last visit, as the snow was high and unable to drive or walk through, back in January. Now, with temperatures more favorable, and my hiking shoes on, I was ready to reconnect with the trail that Frank Lloyd Wright himself visited as often as he could. The second reason was my natural curiousity to answer some questions that were raised from my last article. As it turns out, much debate wasn’t on words said, but things that were viewed as unsaid. With that, I’m happy to clearify any confusion.
The discussion of funding seemed to be of a strong concern. The financial ability to maintain the trail is the responsibility of private funds, set aside for conservative efforts. It is being watched over by the Taliesin Preservation group, as the trail is just across the road and a quarter-mile from the entrance of Taliesin. The Frank Lloyd Wright Foundation, who maintains the FLW Visitor Center and Restaurant Terrace, are also on hand to be sure Phoebe Point Trail is being cared for and maintained. In my last article, perhaps I didn’t clarify that enough. A Wisconsin park sticker is not required to park in the parking lot, or hike the trail. However, the collaborated effort between the Driftless Area Land Conservancy, the Frank Lloyd Wright Foundation, and Taliesin Preservation, all have the right to close the trail without notice, for maintancance or to further preserve the area. Guests to Phoebe Point Trail are reminded by the signs posted that they are entering Private Property. The ability to hike the beloved trail is a privelage that can be revolked at any time.
Another question that arose was focused on the parking lot area itself. I can assure you, by my recent visit, with the snow now gone, I can
confirm that the parking lot is not made of cement or black top. The natural rocks that have created the parking area are native to the area. Nothing foreign or out-of-sorts were used to create the parking area. The concern was regarding conservation, which is understandable. The ground was soft when we drove in with 4-wheel drive, so the rocks seem to be a necessity. We were gentle driving in and out.
The medium-skill level trail is roughly a mile long, but can take longer when you stop and take pictures, such as I did. The views are stunning. Posts are placed to mark the trail for your convenience. I encourage anyone wanting to visit this trail to do so. Please remember that trail cameras are a right of land owners, and the conservation group that maintains Phoebe Point Trail. If you go, rules are publicly posted. This is to ensure the respect of the trail and area are maintained by guests. Visitors are reminded to pack out what you pack in; keep pets on leashes and carry out pet waste; not to disturb livestock; not to disturb vegetation or crops; no trespassing on adjacent properties; no hunting, fishing, or trapping; no camping or building of campfires; close any gate you open; stay on the trail; travel only on foot, and to only walk Phoebe Point Trail during daylight hours. If you find yourself lost, or have stayed until dark, there is a number to call, which I would strongly suggest putting into your phone contacts before departing. Emergency calls to 9-1-1 can ensure help arrives more quickly, if necessary. For more information, please visit driftlessconservancy.org/driftless-trail for more information. There is a map available to print for your hiking convenience.
