Ledge View operates a maple syruping operation from mid-March to mid-April. Late winter/early spring starts the freeze-thaw cycle that prompts maple trees to begin pumping their sweet sap. The sap is boiled down to make maple syrup. As weather becomes warmer, the sap flow wanes and ends. In the meantime, birds begin to migrate back into the area, and chipmunks, woodfrogs, and insects reappear in the woods.
The general public has three options: You can view the operation during any hike through the woods at syruping time; you can come to the open house fundraiser, Maple Syrup Sunday. This event takes place at the end of March or beginning of April. On that date, visitors can enjoy pure maple syrup on pancakes etc., learn some of the history of maple syruping, and participate in a tapping tour. YOU get to help find the maple tree, tap it, and collect sap. There is a charge for the breakfast, but the tours are free. This event goes on rain, snow, or shine. In fact, the sap flows better when we have had snow. Or you can watch for the backyard maple syruping workshop in early March, when a naturalist will teach you how to do it all yourself.
Schools and groups can reserve a maple syruping field trip during the sap season. They will learn about Native American and pioneers' maple syruping methods, in addition to "how trees work." Students will hike out to find a maple tree to tap. They will take turns tapping it using a hammer and a bitted brace. If sap has been flowing, students will have the opportunity to taste and collect sap. They will also see stages of the syrup-making process. The program concludes with maple syrup on vanilla ice cream. The Calumet County resident fee is $3 per student; non-county $3.50 per student. Adult chaperones no charge unless they want ice cream, and 50 cents per covers that. Please do not email for reservations. Reservations must be made by phone contact.
School field trips
This half-day program (about two hours) is a sweet way to teach students about a uniquely North American sweetener and how plants make sugar. Reservations are accepted for all age groups. Visitors should dress for the weather-- they will be walking trails (muddy?) and standing out around a tree in the woods (temperature? precipitation?).
