Friends of Lapham Donate Future Lapham Lodge to Department of Natural Resources

Pictured are DNR Secretary Adam Payne, John McCarthy, DNR Superintendent Anne Korman, Mark Herr, Paul Keber, and NRB Chairperson Bill Smith.  Photo by Wisconsin DNR.
DNR Secretary Adam Payne, John McCarthy of GRAEF, DNR Superintendent Anne Korman, Mark Herr, Paul Keber, and NRB Chairperson Bill Smith.  Photo by Wisconsin DNR.

Lapham Peak is a popular destination that caters to a diverse range of outdoor enthusiasts, including hikers, runners, dog-walkers, cross country skiers, mountain bikers, and even horseback riders—among others who frequent this recreation haven.

The dedicated Friends of Lapham Peak have worked towards their goal of creating a new Lapham Lodge, a project situated at the Evergreen Trailhead within the Kettle Moraine State Forest. Their efforts have not only focused on raising essential funds but also developing intricate plans to bring this facility to life.

The proposed Lapham Lodge will be a 5,000 square foot visitor's center that will serve park users on a year-round basis. It will include a large gathering space, a multi-purpose meeting room with a kitchenette, larger men’s, women’s and family restrooms, two changing rooms, and areas for storage of visitor’s gear. It will have an expansive view of the park, to the east, and is being designed to be accessible to all users.

The Friends of Lapham Peak have achieved a significant milestone in their fundraising and design efforts, and have donated the future building to the Department of Natural Resources (DNR). This exciting donation took place at the May Natural Resources Board meeting in Madison, Wis. The DNR will own the facility in late 2024 when the lodge is built.

Structural, Mechanical, Electrical, Plumbing, Civil, and Survey services for the project are being provided by GRAEF.