As many as one million Canada Geese migrate through Horicon Marsh in southeastern Wisconsin every fall. On a peak autumn day, more than 200,000 geese may be in the vicinity of the 32,000-acre marsh at one time. Known as the "Everglades of the North," it is the nation's largest freshwater cattail marsh and home to more than 220 species of birds as well as other animals. Wildlife watchers can marvel at the spectacle of the migrating waterfowl while enjoying the natural beauty of the autumn scenery.
One great way of seeing the marsh is by canoe. While paddling through the marsh, visitors are treated to unbeatable, up-close views of the surrounding wetland habitat. Four boat landings provide canoe access to the state wildlife area in the southern section of the marsh. One of the most popular and scenic canoeing routes is on the east branch of the Rock River from the Greenhead Landing, where the current is slow enough for explorers to leisurely paddle out and return upstream. For more information about canoeing and other recreational activities at Horicon Marsh, call 920/387-7860.