Spring in Door County: Nature in Full Bloom
Spring
As the cold weather of winter loosens its grip on Wisconsin’s beloved peninsula, Door County transforms into a breathtaking display of natural wonder. Nothing tops the refreshing experience of breathing in the fresh air as spring arrives. At the Rushes Wilderness Resort, we offer the perfect base camp for experiencing this refreshing seasonal transition.
From mid-March through May, visitors witness the peninsula’s remarkable transitions as cherry blossoms paint the landscape in delicate pinks and whites and wildlife emerges from winter’s slumber.
The Magic of Spring Awakening
Springtime in Door County is the perfect time to visit if you crave a peaceful retreat, as the summer crowds have yet to arrive, allowing you to enjoy the peninsula’s beauty in serene solitude.
The Rushes offers discounted rates during the spring months of March, April, and May, making it an ideal time for a budget-friendly getaway. The cherry blossoms, which typically peak in mid-May, are a sight to behold, transforming the landscape into a sea of delicate pink and white blooms. Beyond the blossoms, Door County boasts 11 lighthouses, 5 state parks, and numerous beaches and hiking trails (including our own private beach along Kangaroo Lake!), providing endless opportunities for family-friendly activities, girlfriends’ weekends, and romantic escapes.
A Springtime Scavenger Hunt: Discover the Wildlife
The Rushes is home to a rich and diverse ecosystem, making it an excellent location for a springtime scavenger hunt. Our on-site naturalist has carefully curated a list of sights to seek out as you explore the grounds and the Logerquist Wilderness Preserve. Visitors may catch glimpses of white-tailed deer grazing in the meadows, red foxes stealthily navigating the underbrush, and an array of birds returning from their winter migrations.
Birdwatching enthusiasts will find delight in spotting robins, warblers, and sandhill cranes, among other species. Equipped with a pair of binoculars and a keen sense of observation, guests can immerse themselves in the beauty of nature reawakening all around them.
Capture the Blossoming Beauty
For photographers—both amateur and professional—spring in Door County offers an extraordinary opportunity to capture the essence of the season. Whether it’s the delicate petals of cherry blossoms, the bright yellow daffodils gracing the yards of homes and homesteads, or the tranquil reflections on Kangaroo Lake, every frame tells a story of renewal and vitality. The golden hour, just after sunrise or before sunset, enhances the natural beauty, creating a dreamlike setting for capturing unforgettable moments.
Cherry and apple orchards, in particular, provide a captivating backdrop for photography, with the soft pastels of the blossoms juxtaposed against the rich blue sky. Visitors with an eye for macro photography will find endless inspiration in the details of budding flowers, dew-kissed leaves, and the fluttering wings of emerging butterflies.
Embrace an Active Spring Lifestyle
Spring at the Rushes isn’t just about observation—it’s about participation. With the retreat of snow and ice, the great outdoors becomes an open playground for exercise and adventure. The Rushes offers a wide array of activities to get your heart pumping and your spirits soaring.
Hiking and Trail Running
As the days grow warmer, these paths provide the perfect setting for hiking and trail running, whether you’re looking for a meditative stroll among the trees or an invigorating workout.
Pickleball, Tennis, and More
The Rushes provides outdoor recreational facilities for those who enjoy friendly competition, including tennis courts, volleyball courts, basketball hoops, and a newly added pickleball court. Whether you’re looking to refine your skills, get in a workout, or simply have fun with family and friends, these amenities offer an active and engaging way to enjoy the spring sunshine.
Biking: Rejuvenate Your Routine
There’s no better way to shake off the winter blues than by hopping on a bike and feeling the fresh breeze of spring against your face. Cyclers will find plenty to love about the Rushes and the surrounding areas. Door County is an ideal destination for both leisurely rides and more challenging routes, from well-maintained, low-traffic roads to scenic parks and preserved trails.
Beyond the physical perks, cycling through blooming landscapes and along lakefront paths is a deeply rejuvenating experience. Just check out a complimentary bike from the front desk. We have multiple sizes and styles to choose from so the whole family can go for a ride!
Water Adventures: Kayaking, Canoeing, and Boating
As the ice fully retreats from Door County’s lakes and waterways, springtime welcomes the return of water-based adventures. The Rushes offers complementary kayaks, canoes, paddleboats, and paddleboards, allowing guests to glide across the glassy waters while taking in the blossoming shoreline. With each paddle stroke, you might spot fish darting below or turtles basking on sunlit rocks.
Boating enthusiasts can also take advantage of spring’s calm waters, whether you’re fishing, sightseeing, or simply soaking in the tranquility of the lake. Spring’s peaceful ambiance makes it an ideal time for reflective moments on the water before the bustling energy of summer arrives.
Hiking and Trail Running
The Rushes Wilderness Preserve offers extensive trails winding through pristine woodlands, over gentle hills, and along the shores of tranquil ponds and Kangaroo Lake. As the days grow warmer, these paths provide the perfect setting for hiking and trail running, whether you’re looking for a meditative stroll among the trees or an invigorating workout.
Biking: Rejuvenate Your Routine
There’s no better way to shake off the winter blues than by hopping on a bike and feeling the fresh breeze of spring against your face. Cyclers will find plenty to love about the Rushes and the surrounding areas. Door County is an ideal destination for both leisurely rides and more challenging routes, from well-maintained, low-traffic roads to scenic parks and preserved trails.
Beyond the physical perks, cycling through blooming landscapes and along lakefront paths is a deeply rejuvenating experience. Just check out a complimentary bike from the front desk. We have multiple sizes and styles to choose from so the whole family can go for a ride!
Water Adventures: Kayaking, Canoeing, and Boating
As the ice fully retreats from Door County’s lakes and waterways, springtime welcomes the return of water-based adventures. The Rushes offers complementary kayaks, canoes, paddleboats, and paddleboards, allowing guests to glide across the glassy waters while taking in the blossoming shoreline. With each paddle stroke, you might spot fish darting below or turtles basking on sunlit rocks.
Boating enthusiasts can also take advantage of spring’s calm waters, whether you’re fishing, sightseeing, or simply soaking in the tranquility of the lake. Spring’s peaceful ambiance makes it an ideal time for reflective moments on the water before the bustling energy of summer arrives.
Pickleball, Tennis, and More
The Rushes provides outdoor recreational facilities for those who enjoy friendly competition, including tennis courts, volleyball courts, basketball hoops, and a newly added pickleball court. Whether you’re looking to refine your skills, get in a workout, or simply have fun with family and friends, these amenities offer an active and engaging way to enjoy the spring sunshine.
Guided Nature Walks: Learning About Local Flora and Fauna
One of the highlights of spring at the Rushes is the opportunity to participate in guided nature walks led by our knowledgeable on-site naturalist. These excursions provide fascinating insights into the seasonal changes within the Logerquist Wilderness, from the sprouting of native plants to the migration patterns of returning birds.
Visitors can learn about the ecosystem’s delicate balance, the medicinal and culinary uses of wild herbs, and the various animal species that call the preserve home. The walks are educational and a wonderful way to slow down and fully appreciate nature’s intricate beauty.
Local Events & Activities
Think Door County is boring in the off-season? Think again! You’ll find year-round activities right on site at the Rushes.
Also, check out the incredible range of local events taking place all year round! From live music to Screech Owl nest workshops, there’s never a dull moment in Wisconsin’s thumb.
The Joy of Spring Rejuvination At the Rushes
Spring in Door County is a season of transformation, growth, and renewal. At the Rushes Wilderness Resort, guests can fully embrace the magic of the changing season—whether by embarking on outdoor adventures, capturing stunning natural landscapes, or simply breathing in the fresh, flower-scented air.
As you plan your visit to the Rushes this spring, prepare to immerse yourself in a world of awakening beauty and boundless opportunities for adventure. Whether you’re seeking relaxation, connection with nature, or invigorating outdoor activities, springtime at the Rushes promises an unforgettable experience that will leave you feeling refreshed and inspired.