Perched atop the highest point in southern Wisconsin, Blue Mound State Park offers spectacular views and unique geological features. From the early days of horse racing at the top of the Mound and the Pleasure Valley Ski Resort, learn about the origin of this special place through the lens of the park’s longtime naturalist, Al Swain. Swain takes the reader on an interpretive guided journey through the tapestry of unique trails that traverse through woods and prairie and comprise an ecosystem that is unmatched in the region. Drawing on his career as a botanist and plant ecologist he took great pride in teaching the flora and fauna to thousands of visitors through weekend programs, interpretive hikes, and Explorer programs for children.

One of Swain’s greatest passions was his service and contributions to Blue Mound State Park. He served as volunteer park naturalist for over 13 years, as a summer campground host, and was an active member of The Friends of Blue Mound State Park. In addition, he helped develop and grow an interpretive hiking program as well as conduct research projects pertaining to the history of the Blue Mound area through the writing of this book. In 2013, Swain received the Outstanding Individual Friends Member award from the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources. In 2015, the ‘Swain Prairie’ was established at Blue Mound State Park in recognition of his efforts on this prairie restoration. Whether discovering Blue Mound State Park for the first time or a repeat visitor, readers will uncover the physical and spiritual beauty of this high place with a beautiful view.