A not-so-serious packing list for exploring Wisconsin’s wild places (and maybe spotting something mysterious)

So you’re heading out into the woods — maybe to track the elusive Sconster, or maybe just to stretch your legs and clear your head. Either way, Wisconsin’s wild spaces have a way of surprising you. Here’s a short, Sconnie-approved checklist to help you pack smart, stay warm, and enjoy whatever you find out there.

1. Layers, Always

That forecast for “42 and sunny”? Classic Wisconsin misdirection. Start with a thermal base, add a flannel or hoodie, and top it with a jacket that’s seen a few seasons. If it’s blaze orange, even better — the Sconster appreciates safety.

2. Snacks That Crinkle

You’re not you when you're hungry, and the same might go for cryptids. Bring snacks with substance: trail mix (the kind with too many M&Ms), granola bars, and meat sticks. Keep it tidy, though — pack out what you pack in. The Sconster’s mysterious, not messy.

3. Real Footwear

This isn’t a stroll through the outlet mall. Waterproof boots, wool socks, and a willingness to step in a puddle you can’t see the bottom of — those are your real allies out here. Bonus points if they already have some mud on them.

4. Something to Record Your Findings

You probably won’t get a clear photo of the Sconster — they’re sneaky like that — but you will want to jot down odd tracks, flickers in the trees, or what the forest smelled like just before dusk. Whether it’s a pocket notebook or a Notes app, document the vibe.

5. A Good Attitude

You might not spot the Sconster. But you might find a perfect patch of sunlight through the trees, or hear a loon call echo off a hidden lake. That’s part of the legend. Stay curious, stay respectful, and keep your eyes open. There’s more out there than you think.

Final Tip: Whether or not you cross paths with the Sconster, you’ll return with a story worth telling. That’s kind of the point.

Photo by Michael Patterson on Unsplash