Places to Explore · Wisconsin
Spring woodland paths, wildflowers, and birds around a protected wetland landscape near Rochester.
Cherry Lake Sedge Meadow is an 83-acre State Natural Area within Honey Creek Wildlife Area. The DNR describes a glacial basin with sedge meadow, fen, and wet forest. Despite the name, only small openings interrupt the deep sedge mat.
Brian’s collection explores the surrounding trails and woodland edges: narrow paths through fresh spring growth, flowers near the forest floor, and birds among the branches. These photographs show the area he walked rather than a complete survey of the protected wetland.
The paths change character between wooded stretches and open, grassy ground. One photograph also records garlic mustard along the trail, providing context for the vegetation seen during the visit.
A closer look reveals wild geranium, wild strawberry, mayapple, bellwort, baneberry, blue cohosh, and other spring details. Crabapple blossoms lift the view into the branches. These are plants photographed along Brian’s route, not a list of sedge-meadow specialists.
A northern parula adds a bright patch of yellow among the leaves, while a mourning dove rests on a lichen-covered branch. Both photographs capture encounters from Brian’s visits.
Plan a visit
The DNR directs visitors south from Rochester for one mile on County Highway W to the Honey Creek Wildlife Area parking lot, then west and southwest about half a mile on foot. Use the official property map to check boundaries and access.
Expect a natural-area visit rather than a developed park. Footpaths may be informal and wet ground can affect access. The paths in these photographs document past visits, not a marked loop or guaranteed current route.
Leave wildflowers and other natural features in place. Enjoy close-up views from firm footing and avoid trampling sensitive wetland vegetation.
Check the DNR page for current rules, property information, and any access notices. Bring the property map so you can distinguish the natural area from neighboring land.
Official visitor information: Wisconsin DNR — Cherry Lake Sedge Meadow · Official property map.
Photographs by Brian Woolman / Where’s Wildlife. Photographs document past visits; consult official sources for current access and conditions.