The Outdoor Wire

Field Trip Registration Opens on April 8 at Noon

Thousands of nature lovers across the state are waiting excitedly for the opening of the Natural Resources Foundation of Wisconsin (NRF)'s 2026 Field Trip season at noon on Tuesday, April 8th.

The nonprofit conservation organization is offering a wider variety and record number of 280 trips in honor of their 40th anniversary this year. NRF has been protecting Wisconsin's lands, waters and wildlife and connecting all people with nature since 1986, and has been coordinating expert-led Field Trips since 1993.

Because many of the trips fill within the first hour of registration opening, NRF encourages people who are interested in Field Trips to join or renew their NRF memberships in advance, and be ready on registration day at exactly noon with a list of which trips they hope to attend.

The Field Trip Guidebook is now available to view online, which contains details about each of the 280 experiences so participants can choose which trips are a good fit for their interests, location, and abilities.

An interactive online map tool is also available to easily sort Field Trips by physical demand, family-friendliness, topics, date range, or keyword. After registration opens and some trips fill up, the map can also be used to search which trips still have open spaces.

Why Field Trips?

NRF offers these Field Trips to encourage adults and families to enjoy our state's natural wonders. Field Trips also raise awareness – and funds – for conservation efforts in Wisconsin.

To learn more about Field Trips and to register on April 8th, visit WisConservation.org.