Green cars. Green food. Bamboo computer keyboards. Americans can’t turn around without seeing another environmentally-sound product. So it’s not surprising that organic-cotton and composting families choose the best places to vacation.
Surprise! However, Wisconsin is the state that has been at the forefront of this trend. Although it is best known for its cheddar-shaped headwear and beer, the Cheese State has become the Cheese State. “green tourism state,”It is thanks to its innovative Travel Green Wisconsin program. Based on green building principles, the Travel Green Wisconsin program certifies businesses that have committed to reducing environmental impact. When planning a visit to Wisconsin, green-minded outdoor enthusiasts will be able to choose eco-friendly hotels and resorts.
Wisconsin has been a popular destination for lovers of non-motorized travel, thanks to its vast tracts in state and national forests, parks, trails, and other natural resources. “silent sports”Cross-country skiing, kayaking, and bird and wildlife observation are just some of the options. The Apostle Islands National Lakeshore was named one of Wisconsin’s top green tourist attractions. “America’s Top Park”National Geographic Adventure.
Cross-country skiing in winter is the state’s silent sport. Wisconsin is home to more than 400 miles of groomed trails and 40 inches of snow annually. You can find everything you need, from peaceful trails through the woods to Olympic-level tracks like the Birkebeiner Trail. This trail is home to North America’s largest cross country ski competition. Every February, the American Birkebeiner attracts up to 9,000 competitors. This includes Olympians from Europe and Asia.
Wisconsin is also a paradise for birdwatchers and sea kayakers. One of the most popular areas for kayakers is Wisconsin’s 15,000 lakes. Door County is home to 250 miles of rugged Lake Michigan coastline. It also has the Apostle Islands (a group of 21 uninhabited Lake Superior Islands) that are well-known for their spectacular sandstone caves. Birdwatchers flock to Horicon Marsh National Wildlife Refuge which is the country’s largest cattail marsh. It also has eagle watching areas along the lower Wisconsin or Mississippi rivers. Wisconsin is home to the highest number of wintering baldeagles among the lower 48 states.
Visit www.eco-friendlytourism.org for more information. www.travelwisconsin.com.