Nature Preserve
Big Rock Preserve
Highland, Wisconsin
Difficulty: Moderate; primitive trails, uneven tread, and water crossings.
Preserve Size: 140 acres
Nestled within the Snow Bottom State Natural Area, Big Rock protects 140 acres of rare Driftless landscapes, oak woodland, pine relict, surrogate grassland, reconstructed prairie, and a cold-water trout stream. The property is named for the dramatic rock outcrops and massive boulders scattered throughout the site, remnants of ancient geologic history.
A Legacy of Care
Jim and Rose Sime purchased Big Rock in 1994 with the goal of restoring native ecosystems and protecting the land for future generations. With their family and friends, as well as the help of Trout Unlimited, they spent decades removing invasive species, restoring natural communities, and helping wildflowers thrive.
Their long-term stewardship and trust in Driftless Conservancy to permanently protect this land ensures these forests, streams, and prairies will continue to flourish.
Explore the Preserve!
Features
- This is a foot traffic-only preserve, to be used for hiking, running, or snowshoeing.
- Stream, oak savanna, prairie
- Fishing access
- Hunting is permitted in most of preserve (see Preserve Rules)
- Be on the lookout for eagles.
Accessibility
- Big Rock is newly protected and we’re still working on signage, trails, and safe visitor access. Please tread carefully and with respect for this amazing place.
Location & Parking
- Park in the designated parking area.
Preserve Rules
- Open to the public from sunrise to sunset for hiking, fishing & cross-country skiing
- Stay on existing trails and do not trample plants
- Respect adjoining private property and do not trespass
- If you encounter closed gates, assure they are closed behind you
- If you encounter cattle, do not approach them
- Do not climb on rocks, camp, light fires, bike or disturb natural features
- Clean footwear before entering the Preserve
- Keep dogs on leash at all times to protect sensitive plants and wildlife
- Do not collect any natural material, living, dead or inert
- Hunting and trapping is allowed in accordance with State law and local ordinances, but hunters must contact Driftless Conservancy to register prior to use
Explore Our Other Nature Preserves
Argyle, WI
Mineral Point, WI
Belleville, WI
Dodgeville, WI
Volunteer with Us!
Join us for monthly workdays to steward our beautiful nature preserves and trail systems. New volunteers are always welcome – no experience necessary!
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