Some of Milwaukee’s best kept secrets are right in our backyard, and this place is no exception. Tucked away on 60th and State is a little known nature preserve. Not only does this slice of greenery offer a getaway from ordinary city living, it serves as an outdoor education center for Milwaukee Public Schools. This natural oasis is absolutely beautiful, breathtaking, and worth a visit.

Welcome to Hawthorn Glen!
Carlos/Google Local
This nature preserve on Milwaukee's near west side also serves as an outdoor education center.
Though this hidden gem serves as an education center for students during the day, everyone is welcome in the evenings and on weekends.
Aaron Abel/Google Local
Hawthorn Glen works with Milwaukee Public Schools and Milwaukee Recreation to provide nature learning opportunities to 12,000 students a year, all within the most beautiful setting.
Hawthorn Glen is 23 acres of jaw-dropping beauty.
Hathorn Glen Outdoor Education Center/Facebook
From forests to wetlands, prairies and more, you can experience multiple nature habitats all within this little slice of greenery right in our backyard, and they're all connected by a trail.

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Their Nature Center is free to the public.
Hathorn Glen Outdoor Education Center/Facebook
This little nature center within Hawthorn Glen is home to Wisconsin native creatures such as tree frogs, turtles, and this incredible six-foot bullsnake.
If you don't visit the nature center, it's likely that you'll still find plenty of friendly animals.
Hathorn Glen Outdoor Education Center/Facebook
While upon the self-guided trail, it's not unlikely that you'll be face-to-face with deer, foxes, woodchucks, many bird species, and more. This preserve is home to many creatures, so please remember to leave nothing but footprints behind.
Even in harsh Milwaukee winters, Hawthorn is fun for all.
Hathorn Glen Outdoor Education Center/Facebook
These trails are perfect for snowshoeing, cross country skiing, or hiking with a good pair of boots.
Hawthorn Glen is the perfect place for a breath of fresh air.
Hathorn Glen Outdoor Education Center/Facebook
Whether you've been to this outdoor education center on a field trip, or explored the trails on your own time, Hawthorn Glen is a nature lover's dream.

Hawthorn Glen is located at 1130 N. 60th St., Milwaukee.

Looking for another nature break? Check out this Milwaukee hike that’s perfectly short and sweet. Don’t forget to share photos from your visit on our Wisconsin Nature Lovers Facebook group or on Instagram using #onlyinmilwaukee for a chance to see your photos featured!

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