Located in Ridge Run Park, this two-stage geocache has been placed for the annual West Bend $1000 Cache Ba$h. There is a rather sloped downhill trail from the trailhead to get to the main trail just west of the parking lot. The first stage brings you to an ephemeral pond, which we're calling Frog Heaven!
Ever hear a pond full of frogs singing in harmony? It’s nature’s version of a battle of the bands! If you're here at the right time you'll be treated to the sounds of many them. They are basically the weird little gymnasts of the animal kingdom—constantly squatting, jumping like they're showing off, and showing off their yoga-level flexibility without even trying. Their idea of a good time? Sitting in mud, catching bugs with their tongues, and singing like it's frog karaoke night.
WHAT IS AN EPHEMERAL POND?
Ephemeral ponds are temporary bodies of water that form seasonally—usually from rainfall, snowmelt, and seasonal flooding, and typically dry up later in the year. They don’t have a constant water source, so they often disappear during hot or dry seasons.
What makes them special is that their temporary nature means fish don't live in them, which is actually great news for frogs, spotted salamanders, and certain insects. Without fish to eat their young, these creatures can thrive. While they may appear to be just seasonal puddles, ephemeral ponds play a vital role in local ecosystems, supporting a unique array of life adapted to their fluctuating wet and dry cycles.
In short: ephemeral ponds are short-lived, seasonal, fish-free havens—nature’s pop-up nurseries for amphibians and other small wildlife.
We hope you enjoy your walk along the trail! 
Placed by members of the
Follow the WGA on social media:
