This new public park is located a short two miles from downtown Viroqua, along the Upper Bishop Branch of the West Fork of the Kickapoo River (Maple Dale Valley).  This land, on Lower Maple Dale Road, consists of a diversity of old woodlands, waterfront, scenic bluff overlooks, ridge-tops, and valleys.

Thanks to donations, grants, and in-kind support, the public portion of the park was acquired by Earthology Institute in 2011.  During the past three years, we have monitored the various ecological, erosion and hydrological patterns of the site to determine the best design plan for the sake of habitat preservation and providing a public park consisting of:

Nature trails
Gardens (community, perennial, and rain)
Outdoor art installations and meditation sites
Picnicking and leisure areas

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The next phases of the park will consist of:

2014: With the help of volunteers, we are creating a relaxing 5 acre public park along the creek complete with picnic sites and gardens.  This area currently serves as a lovely spot to stop and relax after a walk or bike-ride along the valley.  With community support, the park includes vegetable gardens, as well as herb and perennial gardens that are sprinkled throughout the area.

2015: During the next phase, 2 miles of trails will be added within the attached 10 acre portion of the park and up through the ridge areas.  We also plan to incorporate educational signs and art installations within the park.

2016 and beyond: This park will eventually connect with another 10 acre private portion of woodlands which will hold Earthology Retreat Center, complete with more trails, campsites, cabins and workshop sites.