Just in at the gift shop: boxed note card packs from Artists to Watch. This Minneapolis-based company reproduces original designs by independent artists on recycled, soy-ink-printed cards. Each box includes eight cards, two copies of four different designs from one featured artist.

Stop by to see the current selection at the Schmeeckle Reserve Visitor Center. Open daily 9 AM to 4 PM.

New shipment alert! We just received embroidered bags and coin purses, beaded earrings and keychains, and the cutest little ceramic birds that hold toothpicks. Each item is handmade by Fair Trade artisans. Stop by to see the full selection. Open daily 9 AM to 4 PM at the Schmeeckle Reserve Visitor Center Gift Shop.

Shirts that go the distance! New Green Circle Trail shirts just landed in the gift shop, and they're made for the trail, not just named after it. Printed on Paragon performance fabric, these shirts bring UPF 50+ sun protection and moisture wicking comfort. They're available in short sleeve, long sleeve, and long sleeve hooded styles, in a variety of colors to choose from. Stop by and grab yours at the Schmeeckle Reserve Visitor Center Gift Shop. Open daily 9 AM to 4 PM.

Enjoy the beautiful summer days on the trails and start planning your Friends of Schmeeckle Reserve Arts Contest entry. The digital art category has evolved to include beginner and intermediate/advanced levels. From digital illustration to photo manipulation, the digital art category might just be the perfect place for your art!

Feeling inspired? Entries are due December 4. Visit the Friends website for more information.
https://friendsofschmeeckle.org/arts-contest/

Photo: Marek Martinson, 2025 2nd Place Digital Art Entry

We're excited to introduce fair trade ceramic luminaires, handmade by artisans in San Juan de Oriente, Nicaragua, through Women of the Cloud Forest. Each piece is hand-turned on a kick wheel and wood-fired in a traditional beehive-shaped kiln, with nature-inspired designs cut into the clay. Just place a tea light inside and watch the pattern glow!

We've also added new styles of our popular ceramic catch-all dishes — just right for coins, jewelry, or other small treasures.

Stop by and see what's new! Schmeeckle Reserve Visitor Center | 9 AM – 4 PM daily

Looking for a fun way to spend your Saturday morning? Then join longtime rock hound Doug Moore this Saturday (August 29) at 10 a.m. to learn all about rocks, minerals, and more! See samples from his collection, and bring your own rock (one ping pong ball sized rock per person please) to identify.

All ages are welcome at this free program. For more information, check out the Facebook event at: https://www.facebook.com/share/19LtQZgxQS/