The Driftless Area Land Conservancy has released information regarding a new hiking trail just south of Spring Green. Those wishing to hike the new trail can find the starting location on County Highway C, just a half-mile from Highway 23. There is a parking area, although I must say that the day my handsome companion and I went, it wasn’t easy to find; and once found, it wasn’t plowed enough to drive into without the possibility of getting stuck. As it is a year round trail, I’m not as confident that it is maintained during the winter months, especially as it is a new trail. A four-wheel drive vehicle may be required, as is dressing for the weather. A state park sticker is not needed. The trail is on the Taliesin property, across the road from the mansion that was once owned and occupied by Frank Lloyd Wright, the famed architecht. Wright considered this area of grasslands a special place, and kept it a secret from most people that he knew. He referred to the area as Phoebe Point. It is unknown who, if anyone particular, the trail and point are named after. There is a song bird named Phoebe, although they tend to live near the southern United States into Mexico region, and it seems unlikely that they would have flown this far north, although anything is possible. The spectacular views of the trail are said to be included in Wright’s 1930 essay “Why I Love Wisconsin”.

The hike, which is considered to be moderate, is just over a mile long to complete. It loops around, in what is called a “lollipop loop”, returning hikers to the parking area. There are no toilets or water available on the hike. Pets are welcome, but must remain on a leash; additionally picking up pet waste is required. As is necessary for all shared areas in nature, hikers who carry in snacks and water, are also required to carry out their waste. There are several opportunities to hike in and around the Spring Green area, most of which I have hiked several times. The Wisconsin River near Spring Green has some of the best views, in my opinion, and without a doubt, I look forward to getting to see the views of Phoebe Point Trail at some point in the future. I feel its best to visit the new trail again, when weather conditions seem more favorable. Phoebe Point Trail, was a collaborated effort between the Driftless Area Land Conservancy, the Frank Lloyd Wright Foundation, and Taliesin Preservation. For more information, please visit driftlessconservancy. org/driftless-trail for more information. There is a map available to print for your hiking convenience.