Hauser Road Prairie is a 45-acre TPE preserve managed by the Empire-Sauk Chapter. It straddles a scenic high ridge north of Waunakee, from which the State Capital can be seen. It is located within the once vast (250,000-acre) Empire Prairie of northern Dane and southern Columbia counties, and is one of the largest remaining pieces of that original prairie. We have a good chance of seeing three or four gentian species. Stiff gentian blooms in profusion and downy gentian is scattered throughout the site. A patch where bottle gentian has appeared in the past will be searched as well as the area where cream gentian seeds have been scattered. In addition, a number of late-blooming species should still be in flower, such as goldenrods and several aster species. A variety of grassland birds could be present or migrating. Migrating monarch butterflies should still be present. This is an off-trail hike of moderate difficulty. 

What to Bring/Wear: Dress for the weather; wear long pants and good walking shoes, binoculars recommended.

Trip leader: Randy Hoffman (h) 608.849.4502, or [email protected]

Directions:  From the junction of Hwys 19 and 113 in Waunakee, take Hwy 113 north 2.5 miles to Madigan Road (right turn). Proceed on Madigan for 1.0 mile to Hauser Road, turn right. Proceed 0.2 miles and park along the road (off the pavement).