Andrea

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Little Adventures is a series where I talk about the wonder that can be found in the small moments and the everyday, no expedition gear required.

Parnell Tower is not easy to find. I think this is by design. My friend Kaylie and I navigate a series of winding, scenic, back country roads just to get to the parking lot. It appears to be someone’s private driveway if not for the large sign proclaiming it to be Parnell tower. Thank god for the ubiquity of GPS.

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The pine plantations in the area dwarf visitors and make the hour drive north of Milwaukee really feel like the northwoods.

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Observation towers are kind of useless, and I love them. They only exist to give people a better view of their surroundings, that’s it. No fancy innovative purpose, just a good view on a clear day. They kind of remind me of the old wooden jungle gym forts that once were in a lot of county parks in the Milwaukee area. Except observation towers are bigger, cooler, and there typically isn’t some bratty kid trying to pour sand down your pants when you reach the top. Instead you might just be surprised by a few nice ladies with bubbles.

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The Parnell loop trail continues past the tower for another four miles through hilly glacial topography. I am able to hear the croaking of spring peepers in the distance, and the warbling of robins in the trees.

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