Door County Doesn’t Hibernate: Year-Round Adventures Await!
Imagine a place where every season offers its own distinct charm and adventure. Door County is a treasure trove of scenic beauty, thrilling activities, and heartwarming experiences, surrounded by the sparkling waters of Green Bay and Lake Michigan. We may be a little biased at the Rushes, but with its scenic landscapes, charming small towns, and endless outdoor activities, you won’t find a better family vacation, retreat, or client or staff reward, no matter the time of year! Whether you’re seeking a relaxing getaway or an action-packed adventure, Door County and the Rushes have it all.
You won’t have to venture to Peninsula State Park to be entertained. No matter the season, you’ll find plenty to do at the Rushes and in the Bailey’s Harbor area. Our year-round recreation center is a hub of activity, offering an indoor pool, whirlpool, sauna, and exercise room. These facilities ensure that there’s never a dull moment, even on a rainy or snowy day. Although we firmly believe in work-life balance, we won’t tell anyone if you need to catch up on some work in our business center while you’re here!
In this article, we’ll take you on a seasonal tour of the Rushes and Door County, exploring the best activities and attractions spring, summer, fall, and winter offer. By the end, you’ll be ready to plan your next unforgettable trip to the Rushes!
Reasons to Visit the Rushes All Year Long
Believe it or not, Door County is a year-round destination, offering something special every season. Whether you’re hiking through spring wildflowers, paddling along summer shorelines, admiring fall’s vibrant foliage, or exploring winter’s snowy landscapes, you’ll find endless opportunities for adventure and relaxation.
Spring in Door County: Nature in Full Bloom
Spring Temperature Report High / Low (Monthly Average)
- March 38°/ 21°
- April 50°/ 32°
- May 63°/ 42°
When the chill of winter subsides, Door County springs back to life, painting a vibrant canvas of cherry blossoms set against the backdrop of a serene landscape. The snow melts away, giving rise to lush greenery and blooming wildflowers. This is the perfect time for hiking enthusiasts to hit the trails and explore the season’s scenery at the Rushes.
Springtime Scavenger Hunt
Begin your spring visit by playing a delightful game of I Spy: Door County Edition. Our Rushes naturalist has assembled a scavenger hunt made especially for things you will spy on during the spring season. Keep an eye out for deer, foxes, and a variety of bird species that call the grounds and Rushes Wilderness Preserve home.
Capture The Blooms
Springtime in Door County is a photographer’s paradise, with the region boasting the nation’s fourth-largest cherry-growing region. Over 2,500 acres of cherry orchards and 500 acres of apple orchards are decked in mesmerizing blossoms, presenting a perfect opportunity to capture the essence of spring in your camera.
Get Your Spring Exercise
An active lifestyle is integral to the Door County spring experience at the Rushes. In addition to hiking, running, biking, and boating, our amenities include volleyball courts, tennis courts, basketball hoops, and even a pickleball court! Our preserved Logerquist wilderness supports a diverse array of plant and animal life. Our on-site naturalist offers guided tours that offer fascinating insights into our sanctuary’s flora and fauna.
Road and Trail Biking in the Spring: Rejuvenate your Routine
After months of cold weather and darker days, spring brings a natural desire to be outdoors. Bike riding provides a refreshing way to shake off the winter blues and invigorate your spirit. The physical benefits are clear—improved cardiovascular fitness, stronger muscles, and better mental health. But beyond that, biking in spring is about feeling the wind rush past as blossoms scatter across your path.
The Rushes, Baileys Harbor, and Door County have cycling opportunities for everyone. From its well-maintained and low-traffic roads to park and preserve trails, there is no better base for a bike ride than the Rushes.
Enjoy a Spring Picnic in a Countryside Meadow or Woodland
There’s something magical about a spring picnic, especially when it takes place in a peaceful countryside meadow. Picture it now—a gentle breeze rustling through the grass, the vibrant colors of newly bloomed flowers, and the calming quiet of nature enveloping you. You have the added advantage of fewer people and no mosquitos!
Fresh Air and Freedom
Feel the invigorating breath of fresh air fill your lungs as you escape the hustle and bustle of daily life. The meadow provides the perfect backdrop for deep breaths and the freedom to roam.
Spring Blooms
The meadow is bursting with a kaleidoscope of spring blooms. Take a leisurely stroll to admire the flowers’ vibrant hues or bring along a sketchbook to capture their beauty.
The Quiet of Nature
Listen to the symphony of nature—the gentle rustle of leaves, the distant chirping of birds, and the soothing silence that only the countryside can offer.
Relaxation
Find a cozy spot, lay out your blanket, and settle in for an afternoon of pure relaxation. Bring your favorite book, meditate, or simply lie back and watch the clouds drift by. A spring picnic at the Rushes is not just an event; it’s an experience—a chance to reconnect with nature and recharge your soul.
Bask In Wonderful Wildflowers
For visitors planning a trip between April and early July, the wildflowers of Door County are a sight to behold. Ridges Sanctuary just a short drive away is a precious trove of breathtaking blooms. Home to 25 species of orchids and 30 sand ridges, this sanctuary exhibits rare species like the threatened dwarf lake iris, Arctic primrose, cancer root, and ram’s head lady’s slipper.
Ridges Sanctuary is also the site of the fascinating Festival of Nature in May. This three-day celebration sees nature enthusiasts from across the globe enjoying naturalist-led field trips throughout the northern half of the county. Whether examining a bog flower or catching a glimpse of the elusive goldthread, visitors get a chance to immerse themselves in nature’s beauty and learn about these stunning specimens from experienced guides.
April
Hepatica, daffodils, and rock cress
May
Dwarf lake iris, trillium, mayflowers, apple and cherry blossoms, wild strawberry, jack-in-the-pulpit, wild columbine, yellow lady’s slipper orchids, bunchberry, Canada anemone, and starry solomon’s plume
June
Blue-flag wild iris, swamp buttercup, spreading dogbane, twin flower, thimbleberry, pink-flowered pyrola, and evening primrose
Cherry Blossom Festivals
Spring in Door County is synonymous with cherry blossoms. The peninsula transforms into a vibrant tapestry of pink and white blossoms, making it the ideal time for a visit. The Cherry Blossom Festival is a must-see event, celebrating the blooming season with parades, local crafts, and cherry-themed festivities. It’s a photographer’s dream and a delightful experience for families.
Bird Watching Among the Blooms
Spring migration brings a plethora of bird species to Door County. Our Logerquist Preserve provides some of the best bird-watching opportunities in the area for both land and aquatic birds. Armed with binoculars and a field guide, you can spot everything from warblers to waterfowl. It’s a serene way to connect with nature and enjoy the fresh spring air.
Summer in Door County: Never A Dull Moment
Summer Temperature Report High / Low (Monthly Averages)
- June 74°/53°
- July 78°/58°
- August 77°/58°
Summer Sunrise / Sunset Report
- June 5:07 a.m. / 8:28 p.m.
- July 5:07 a.m. / 8:17 p.m.
- August 5:35 a.m. / 7:28 p.m.
Any local will tell you – a summer day in Wisconsin is the definition of paradise. Savor the season when the sun is bright, the breeze is warm, and the whispering waves beckon you to the shoreline. Imagine soaking up the sun, exploring world-class parks, dining al fresco, sipping a relaxing drink on the sand, taking in a live show, or venturing on a food or shopping spree—all in one place.
Raise Your Heartrate in the Rays
Runners, bikers, and hikers love taking to our trails this time of year to get their daily dose of sunshine and exercise. Stroll through the greenery, veer down biking paths, or challenge yourself to an adrenaline-inducing run, all while taking in the majesty of the trees. If you’re looking for more adrenaline-pumping activities on the water, consider jet skiing or parasailing. Several outfitters in the area offer rentals and guided tours, ensuring a safe and thrilling experience on the water.
Become a Beach Bum
The Rushes offers 2,800 feet of sand beach frontage on Kangaroo Lake in Bailey’s Harbor, Wisconsin. Our complimentary waterfront amenities include sailboats, canoes, kayaks, paddle boats, and paddle boards. Enjoy a day of swimming, sunbathing, and volleyball right on our grounds. Families will love Kangaroo Lake’s shallow waters and picnic areas, making it an ideal spot for relaxing together. If you’re eager for more, Door County has over 300 miles of shoreline, so there’s no shortage of stunning beaches to explore!
Feast in the Sun
Discover the culinary delights of Door County. Summer is ideal for a tasting tour when the area’s top restaurants and eateries serve the freshest local produce. Door County’s culinary scene is a food lover’s paradise, from freshly caught fish and farm-raised meat to homegrown vegetables, jams, cherries, and stone fruit. One of our favorite local businesses is Waseda Farms, right down the road, which offers 100% grass-fed organic beef along with amazing local produce!
Make A Splash at the Rushes
Embrace the thrill of water sports as summer warmth tempers the lakes and waterways. From kayaking and paddle boarding to parasailing, tubing, and boating, there’s a water activity for everyone. Novices can join guided tours, while experienced sailors can embark from the marina or boat launch spots. For those craving adventure, summer offers a plethora of water sports for our guests at the Rushes. A part of your stay includes access to kayaks, canoes, and paddleboards to explore calm Kangaroo Lake. Of course, Lake Michigan is wide open for our more adventurous guests to take their jet skis or water skis!
Fall in Door County: Breathtaking Colors
Fall Temperature Report High/Low (Monthly Average)
- Sept 71°/51°
- Oct 56°/40°
- Nov 43°/29°
When the bustle of summer winds down, Door County, Wisconsin, transforms into a serene landscape painted in the most vibrant red, orange, and gold hues. Fall in Door County is a sight to behold, with the area boasting some of Wisconsin’s most beautiful autumn colors.
As the cooler temperatures of September roll in, the county starts to showcase its softer, quieter side. Fall is the perfect time to explore the region’s stunning outdoor sights, enjoy its exquisite cuisines, and indulge in world-class shopping experiences.
Crisp Autumn Hiking
There’s nothing better than the crackle of leaves beneath your feet and the cool breeze on your face during a relaxing fall hike at the Rushes. At the Logerquist Wilderness Preserve at the Rushes, you’ll find a kaleidoscope of colors amongst our trees. Of course, we have a special scavenger hunt prepared for this season, too! The forest floor is often dotted with late-blooming wildflowers and mushrooms, adding to the rich tapestry of the landscape. Our naturalist will lead you on an interpretive hike that allows you to appreciate all of these details like never before.
After the first frost, you can enjoy a mosquito-free hike. Fall is a great time to watch wildlife scurrying to prepare for the upcoming winter. Squirrels gathering food for the winter, deer looking for the special someone 😊 Fall is also a great time for our guests to rela and reflect on the summer season. Wisconsin fun is more that a summer activity. Take advantage of Wisconsin’s four seasons by experiencing and appreciating all of them.
Fall Stargazing
Door County is known as a “Dark Sky” site because it is a peninsula with low light pollution. Simply stepping outdoors away from outdoor lighting is awe-inspiring. And fall, with lower humidity, still air, and comfortable temps, is one of our favorite times to stargaze. Check out a star gazing book from our nature library and look up!
As summer fades into memory, we watch the Summer Triangle drift westward with each passing evening. Even as the air turns crisp, the Summer Triangle remains a striking feature in the night sky, though it’s now joined by a new celestial companion in the east—the Fall Square. While the stars of the Fall Square might not shine as brightly as those in the Summer Triangle, their distinctive square shape makes them easy to spot.
At the left corner of the Fall Square shines Alpheratz, a brilliant blue star with a rather quirky name. Derived from Arabic, Alpheratz means “the horse’s belly button,” a nod to its traditional place within the constellation Pegasus.
Looking north, you might catch a glimpse of the Big Dipper, although it sits low enough to be obscured by trees. But fear not! When the Dipper dips, the “W” shape of Cassiopeia rises high in the sky. Together, Cassiopeia and the Fall Square serve as key landmarks for stargazing in autumn.
Ready for a challenge? On a clear, dark night, head out to try and spot one of autumn’s most prized deep-sky treasures—the Andromeda galaxy. Position yourself so you can see both the “W” of Cassiopeia and Alpheratz in the Fall Square. Slowly scan the area between them with your naked eye or binoculars, searching for a faint, hazy glow. It might take a little patience and perhaps an even darker sky, but if you succeed, you’ll be gazing at the farthest object visible to the unaided human eye.
The Rushes do not fall asleep in the fall, nor does Door County.
Pumpkin Patches and Apple Orchards
While you’ll never tire of the colors at the Rushes, our regulars love picking apples and pumpkins. Autumn is harvest season, and Door County’s pumpkin patches and apple orchards are a delight to explore. Visit places like the Lautenbach’s Orchard Country a short drive away in Fish Creek for apple picking and pumpkin hunting. Return to the Rushes and cook homemade pie in your full-sized kitchen!
Fall Festivals
Fall in Door County is also a time for lively festivals. Events like the Sister Bay Fall Fest offer live music, local food vendors, and crafts. The Pumpkin Patch Festival in Egg Harbor is another highlight, featuring pumpkin carving, costume contests, and more. These festivals provide a perfect blend of community spirit and seasonal celebration.
Geocaching
Take up geocaching and head into the woods: There may be no better way to get the full fall-color experience than going on a naturalist treasure hunt in the woods, seeing the colorful leaves up close, and following the map wherever it leads you.
What do you need to go geocaching? A sense of adventure and a cell phone! Door County has hundreds of geocaches, including some right at the Rushes and the Logerquist Nature Preserve. Ask our natruaist, or go to geocaching.com to find caches near by.
Winter in Door County: Wisconsin’s Wonderland
Winter Temperature Report High / Low (Monthly Average)
- Dec.39°/19°
- Jan.26°/11°
- Feb.29°/12°
Don’t let freezing temperatures put your family into hibernation mode! While most people are drawn to the typical tourist season, winter is our time to shine. Take a look at a few of our favorite winter activities in Door County, WI.
Ice Skating
Nothing says winter fun quite like strapping on a pair of skates! When temperatures drop, our staff gets moving to create an ice skating rink on the frozen lake. We see newlyweds skating hand-in-hand alongside families teaching their kids to skate for the first time. It is truly a precious sight to behold!
Snowshoeing
When winter blankets Door County in snow, a new world of adventure opens up. Snowshoeing is a fantastic way to explore the winter landscape. Simply check out a pair of snowshoes at the front desk for a great way to stay active and enjoy the quiet beauty of our wilderness preserve.
Cross-Country Skiing
For those who love gliding through snow, the cross-country skiing trails in Door County at the Rushes are your place! our snow-covered trails will be perfectly groomed to create a route suitable for all skill levels. The peaceful surroundings and crisp winter air make our winter woods a truly magical experience.
Break Out your Fat Bike
When winter snow blankets Door County, Wisconsin, many trails become off-limits—but not for fat tire biking enthusiasts! Fat bikes, with their oversized, balloon-like tires, are designed for cruising over soft terrain like snow, making it possible to explore some of the area’s most stunning natural landscapes even in the dead of winter. With their wide rims and low-pressure tires, these bikes allow you to easily glide over snowy trails, transforming the frozen wilderness into your personal playground. If you’re up for an adventure, fat biking in Door County is a must-try winter activity!
The Rushes grooms trails for single-track cross-country skiing and snow shoeing, and fat tire bikers can share these trails.
Ice Fishing
Explore Kangaroo Lake in Door County, Wisconsin – a top spot for ice fishing! This expansive inland lake spans 1,156 acres with depths up to 12 feet. Conveniently located near Jacksonport and Baileys Harbor, it boasts a public boat landing for easy access. The Rushes offers prime walking access to great fishing spots along its shores.
Drill into a diverse aquatic world at Kangaroo Lake, where you can reel in Panfish, Largemouth bass, Smallmouth bass, Northern pike, and Walleye. Don’t miss out on this angler’s paradise!
Outdoor Fire Rings
There’s nothing quite like gathering around a crackling wood fire in a fire ring to warm up on a chilly winter day. The crisp air, the scent of burning wood, and the comforting warmth of the flames create a cozy and inviting atmosphere.
As the fire flickers, you can toast marshmallows, share stories, or simply sit back and soak in the peacefulness of a winter evening. The simple pleasure of a wood fire transforms cold nights into memorable experiences, making it a perfect way to embrace the season and enjoy the outdoors.
Catch a chill while Ice fishing? Walk over to one of our beach fire rings, stack some of the free firewool, and a few minutes after starting your fire, you will feel the warmth.
Ice Formations at Cave Point Park and Cana Island Light House
Door County’s Cave Point Park and Cana Island Lighthouse become mesmerizing ice kingdoms on a Wisconsin winter day. Cave Point is hit by waves from Lake Michigan, which result in beautiful ice structures that can be seen along the shores. This gives the landscape an unreal and alien appearance that will appeal to photographers and nature enthusiasts alike. Just up the Lake Michigan coast, Cana Island Lighthouse bravely stands out amidst this frozen world with its iconic shape accentuated by ice covered trees and glistening snow. The lighthouse sitting at the edge of a wintry seascape affords dramatic views of the icy vastness of Lake Michigan. To visit these places during winter is like entering into a perfect untouched ice land.
Door County Dining Options Open Year-Round
No matter when you visit Door County, you’ll find delicious dining options to satisfy your cravings. The peninsula is home to a diverse culinary scene, with restaurants ranging from casual cafes to fine dining establishments.
- For breakfast, head to Door County Coffee in Carlsville. They offer fantastic homemade bakery and the best cherry-flavored coffee you’ll ever have!
- If you’re in the mood for seafood, visit the Harbor Fish Market and Grille in Baileys Harbor. This waterfront restaurant offers fresh catches of the day, along with stunning views of the harbor.
- For a Friday night fish boil, try the Log Den in Egg Harbor. This farm-to-table restaurant sources ingredients from local farms and offers a seasonal menu that highlights the best of Door County’s produce.
- If you’re looking for the “everybody-knows-your-name atmosphere,” check out the Coyote Roadhouse on Kangaroo Lake.
Make The Most Of Every Season At The Rushes
Spring brings a burst of wildflowers and migratory birds, summer offers endless water sports, fall dazzles with vibrant foliage, and winter transforms the peninsula into a snowy wonderland. Simply put, the Rushes in Door County is a destination you can visit again and again, each time discovering something new and exciting. Whether it’s a summer retreat or a winter wonderland you seek, The Rushes has something special for every season.
Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventures, tranquil relaxation, or a bit of both, The Rushes offers the perfect getaway any season of the year. Book your stay and discover why The Rushes condo rentals in Door County, Wisconsin, are the best escape for restful retirees, tireless tots, and everyone in between all year long!