Workshop: Botanical Illustration Hike Series

Botanical Illustration Hikes is a three-part guided experience blending interpretive hiking, plant education, and hands-on botanical drawing. Hosted in collaboration between Planted and Dubuque County Conservation, each session explores a different seasonal landscape along the scenic edges of Dubuque County.

Participants will join naturalists and plant experts on an interpretive hike through a unique conservation area, learning to observe plant forms, textures, and identifying features. Along the way, you’ll stop to sketch plants you’re curious about with guidance from staff. After the hike, we’ll gather in a relaxed setting to refine your drawings, working on coloration, blending, detailing, and learning deeper stories about the plants you discovered.

This series is designed for adults of all experience levels with no prior drawing experience required. Attend just one session or register for the full seasonal bundle for the complete experience.

White Pine Hollow State Preserve – New Vienna, IA
Sunday, May 3rd | 10:00 AM

Explore fragile spring wildflowers tucked into the limestone bluffs and forested valleys of White Pine Hollow. This is our most challenging hike with steeper terrain and rocky footing.

Optional post-hike final drawing session at Textile Brewing Company, Dyersville.

Locher Lake – Cascade
July 12 | 10:00 AM
Rain date: Sunday, July 19th

Discover summer wildflowers, shoreline plants, and prairie-edge species at Dubuque County’s newest conservation area home to the largest public lake in the county (25+ acres). This is an easy, relaxed hike, ideal for all ability levels.

Optional post-hike finish & refreshment at Corner Tap, Cascade.

Bowstring Wildlife Area in Bernard Iowa

727 Creek Branch Lane
October 11 | 10:00 AM
Rain date: Sunday following (Oct. 18th)

Experience the rich textures and colors of autumn at this historic river corridor. After sketching along rolling hills and river edges, pack in a lunch and enjoy the view from the historic bowstring bridge, with the option to enjoy a handcrafted, nature-inspired cocktail.

Each participant receives a full Botanical Illustration Kit, including:

Register for one session or the full series

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