Between Menominee and Eau Claire you will find the majestic park called Hoffman Hills. This is a spot I was introduced to several years back as a place to go see the leaves after they have turned. I do enjoy going for the turning of the leaves, but there is now another time to go – Star Gazing. In the middle of winter on a clear night, it is amazing how far you can see, especially if you take the time to hike to the tower and just look up for awhile. Many will swear by the full moon, but the prime time star gazing in winter is new moon. When there is a fresh white snow on the ground, new moon is as bright as day thanks to the stars. The park closes at 9pm and has an automated gated so you have to be out by nine, or you will need to wait till morning. I mention this at an odd time because the prime star gazing weather is almost over for the winter, and it will soon be dark far to late to make Hoffman hills viable for star gazing. Summer star gazing is nice enough, but for full brilliance, winter is the best. Even if you aren't into stargazing, Hoffman hills is worth a visit – its tower and excellent lack of city light bleed makes it awesome for stargazing.