Bay Shore Blufflands Nature Preserve

Wind-swept fields, towering pine forests, ephemeral wetlands and springs, and stretches of open space along Bay Shore Drive all contribute to the beauty of this place — but the must-see feature is the spectacular view from the rugged rock bluff of the Niagara Escarpment. Running like a spine down the entire length of the preserve, the escarpment provides not only breathtaking scenery but also a highly specialized habitat for rare plants and animals, including eight orchid species and federally endangered land snails. Green Bay’s cobbled shoreline is visible below, though trails remain on the bluff above.

Portions of the preserve once cleared for timber, farms, resorts, and even a golf course are being actively restored to productive wildlife habitat — making Bay Shore Blufflands one of the Midwest’s most notable conservation success stories.

Trails

Three interconnected trails wind through the preserve, totaling 2.5 miles:

Bluff Loop Trail (1.2 miles, moderate) — The main loop circles through mixed hardwood forest before reaching the dramatic bluff overlook with panoramic views of Green Bay.

Escarpment Trail (0.8 miles, difficult) — A steeper trail that descends along the face of the Niagara Escarpment. Rocky terrain and elevation change make this a more challenging option.

Meadow Connector (0.5 miles, easy) — A gentle mowed-grass path through restored prairie, connecting the parking area to the eastern portions of the trail system.

Terrain

Most terrain is easy to moderate with well-maintained natural surface trails. The Escarpment Trail includes a steep incline along the bluff slope — sturdy footwear recommended.

Wildlife & Flora

The escarpment’s exposed dolomite cliffs create unique microclimates supporting rare plant communities, including eight orchid species. The state-threatened ram’s head lady’s slipper and federally endangered land snails are among the preserve’s most significant residents.

Restored grasslands in the eastern portion provide habitat for ground-nesting birds and native pollinators. The preserve is particularly notable for spring wildflowers and fall hawk migration.

Stewardship

DCLT staff and volunteers actively manage this preserve through invasive species removal, prescribed burns in the grassland areas, and trail maintenance. The grassland restoration, begun in 2008, has successfully established native prairie species including big bluestem, prairie dock, and wild bergamot.