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Cook County Forest Preserve north branch trail miami woods. Photo courtesy of the Cook County Forest Preserve District

Experience Nature Throughout Winter in the Forest Preserves of Cook County

Posted on January 7, 2022January 7, 2022 By Ray Hanania 1 Comment on Experience Nature Throughout Winter in the Forest Preserves of Cook County
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Experience Nature Throughout Winter in the Forest Preserves of Cook County

The start of a new year and long-awaited arrival of snow brings winter fun to the Forest Preserves of Cook County. Join us for programs and events in January and February! From enjoying the warmth of a campfire to exploring the snowy trails of the Cook County Forest Preserves, there are plenty of opportunities for Cook County residents to get outside and experience nature throughout winter.

Learn woodworking skills at Rolling Knolls in Elgin on Jan. 14, give back to the land at Sand Ridge Nature Center in South Holland on Jan. 17, learn how the groundhog got its own holiday at Trailside Museum of Natural History in River Forest on Feb. 2, head out on a scavenger hunt at LaBagh Woods in Chicago on Feb. 9, and join fellow photographers to capture scenic winter photos on Feb. 22. Events are subject to weather conditions.

More details on these events and more, below.

Visitors should call or check fpdcc.com/events for any updates regarding all events. All visitors over 2 years of age must wear a mask indoors at all times.

Unvaccinated visitors should also wear a mask outdoors when physical distancing (six feet from other people) is not possible.

Dan Ryan Woods CC Forest Preserve District. Photo courtesy of the Cook County Forest Preserve District
Dan Ryan Woods CC Forest Preserve District. Photo courtesy of the Cook County Forest Preserve District

 

South

 

Open Nature Play Day

Bring your little one for open nature play time. Enjoy the Dan Ryan Woods Nature Play space while helping your children connect with nature. Enjoy stories, art and exploration each time. 

Dan Ryan Woods Visitor Center, S Western Ave & W 87th St, Chicago

Wednesdays 10 am-1 pm

 

Winter Exploration Day

Get outside and enjoy winter in the Preserves. This is a great opportunity for the whole family to enjoy snowshoeing (weather permitting), nature hikes, art making, campfires and more! 

Schubert’s Woods, Sauk Trail, west of Ashland Ave, near Steger

Saturday, January 8 * 10-1 pm

 

Be a Better Birder: Getting Started*

Join a naturalist to learn about how to get started birding. Learn about the history of birding, what equipment you might need and birds to expect. This will be a zoom presentation

Virtual via Zoom – Register Here: https://2022beabetterbirder1.eventbrite.com 

Thursday, January 20 * 6 pm

 

Beaubien Woods Community Day

Join the Forest Preserves of Cook County and Field Museum to enjoy a day at Beaubien Woods. Explore nature, help with restoration and enjoy an art-making activity. 

Beaubien Woods, North end across from Carver Military Academy

Saturday, February 5 * 10-1 pm

 

Be a Better Birder: Intro to Bird ID*

Join a naturalist to learn about how to identify birds. Learn tips, tricks, and hints to apply when looking at birds. This will be a zoom presentation

Register Here: https://2022beabetterbirder2.eventbrite.com 

Thursday, February 24 * 6 pm

Cook County Forest Preserve north branch trail miami woods. Photo courtesy of the Cook County Forest Preserve District
Cook County Forest Preserve north branch trail miami woods. Photo courtesy of the Cook County Forest Preserve District

 

Sand Ridge Nature Center

15891 Paxton Ave, South Holland

 

Winter Poetry Walks

Walk our Pines Trail anytime this winter season and experience a collection of nature-themed poems hand picked out by our team. Poems will be switched out monthly.

Daily

 

Nature in Spanish

Learn some common nature words and phrases in Spanish as we explore a different nature topic each month. Beginners welcome.

Facebook Live

Saturday, January 8 * 10am – Los Pinos (The Pines)

Saturday, February 5 * 10am – ¿Que es una Quemadura Prescrita? (What is a Prescribed Burn?)

 

Live Healthy, Discover Nature! Hike

Venture out on our scenic trails for a 3- to 4-mile hike led by our nature education staff. Registration required.

Saturday, January 8 * 2 pm

Saturday, February 5 * 2 pm

 

Meet Our Birds

Come take a closer look at Sand Ridge Nature Center’s birds. Learn more about our animal ambassadors on display and discover some of their unique adaptations. Registration required.

Sunday, January 9 * 1:30 pm

Sunday, February 13 * 1:30 pm

 

Wee Wonders

Preschoolers with an adult are invited to learn about nature through music, movement, stories and crafts. Registration required.

Wednesday, January 12 * 10 am – Who’s Footprints are Those?

Wednesday, February 9 * 10 am – How do the Birds Stay Warm? 

 

Wellness in the Woods: “Solitude” in Nature

Discover the peacefulness of solitude in nature without being alone. Registration required.

Friday, January 14 * 6 pm

 

Sand Ridge by Candlelight

Enjoy Sand Ridge at night during a relaxing candlelit self-guided walk through the woods. Multiple time slots available. Registration required.

Friday, January 21 * 6-8:30 pm

 

Creative Reuse: Paper Making

In the first of a three-part journaling series, learn how to make paper from recycled materials.

Sunday, January 30 * 1-3 pm

 

Nature Tales: The Stories Tracks Leave

Learn how to identify different wildlife tracks and go on a walk to see who’s stopped by the nature center. Registration required.

Saturday, February 12 * 10 am

 

Wellness in the Woods: Headphones Hike

Nervous about hitting the trails with your favorite soundtrack? Crank up your tunes and let our staff guide you through our scenic trails. Registration required.

Saturday, February 19 * 1:30 pm

 

Evening Valentine’s Walk

Enjoy Sand Ridge at night during a relaxing candlelit walk through the woods. While you walk, learn about native wildlife’s mating habits, from a short fling to a bond that lasts a lifetime. Multiple time slots available. Registration required.

Friday, February 11 * 6-8:30 pm

 

Owl Prowl

Bundle up and join us at night to look for owls and other signs of nighttime wildlife.  1-1.5 miles.  Recommended for ages 12 & up. Registration required.

Friday, February 18 * 7 pm

 

Black History Month: Underground Railroad Walks

Join us on a self-guided journey that follows the Underground Railroad route connected to the Calumet Region during the mid-1800s.

Saturday, February 26 * 10 am-3 pm

 

Creative Reuse: Journal Making

In the second of a three-part journaling series, we’ll take the pages we made last month and create journals from recycled materials.

Sunday, February 27 * 1-3 pm

 

 

Southwest

For more information, call 312-533-5751

 

Cold Weather Crafting

Enjoy a cozy winter morning inside, listening to the crackle of a fire while creating nature-themed art. Registration required, call 312-533-5751.

Sunday, January 9 • 10 am-12:30 pm 

Swallow Cliff-North Pavilion, Calumet Sag Rd/Rte 83, west of La Grange Rd/96th Ave

 

Explore Horsetail Lake

Adults and families, come explore with us at Horsetail Lake! Grabbing a self-guided exploration activity or join our staff on one of our guided hikes. Join a litter pickup and help cleaning up the preserve, warm up by a fire, and take home a nature activity to continue your adventure.

Saturday, February 19 • 11 am-1:30 pm

Horsetail Lake, 104th Ave, north of McCarthy Rd

 

Photography Walk

We’ll hike around Swallow Cliff and to Teason’s Woods in hopes of capturing some magical winter photography. Meet on the patio out front of the pavilion. Register by calling 312-533-5751.

Tuesday, February 22 • 9 am

Swallow Cliff Woods-North, Calumet Sag Rd/Rte 83, west of La Grange Rd/96th Ave

 

 

Little Red Schoolhouse Nature Center

9800 Willow Springs Rd, Willow Springs

708-839-6897

 

Renew, Rejuvenate, Restore

Begin the New Year by renewing, rejuvenating, and restoring habitats as well as your mind, body and spirit. Enjoy a cup of hot chocolate, and warm up by the fire afterwards. Registration required.

Saturday, January 2 * 10 am-Noon  

 

R.I.P. Stewardship   

Join us as we Remove Invasive Plants with bow saws or loppers. Tools, gloves and a snack will be provided. Registration required. Please wear closed toed shoes and long pants. Adults 15 & up.

Saturday, January 8 * 10-Noon        

Saturday, February 12 * 10-Noon        

 

Winter Tree ID

Discover tips and clues to help identify trees when there are no leaves on them on this 1-mile adventure. Registration required.

Sunday, January 9 * 1 pm  

 

S.E.N.I.O.R.S.      

Seniors Enjoying Nature Inside/Outside Rain or Shine! Join us for a nature-inspired adventure for seniors. Ages 55 & up. Registration required.

Thursday, January 13 * 10 am 

Thursday, February 10 * 10 am  

 

Poop and Prints

Enjoy a naturalist-led hike on our trails in search of signs of local wildlife. Learn how do identify animals just by the signs they leave behind. Registration required.

Saturday, January 15 * 1:30 pm  

 

Moon Walk     

Let the full moon be our guide as we hike the 1-mile White Oak Trail, and warm up by a fire under the night sky afterwards. All ages. Please bring binoculars. Limited pairs to lend. Registration required.      

Tuesday, January 18 * 6 pm 

Wednesday, February 16 * 6pm   

 

Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star Night Hike

Bring the little ones out for this short special hike just for them. We will admire the night sky whether its cloudy or clear. Registration required. Ages 3-10 with parent or guardian.

Friday, January 22 * 7-7:45 pm 

 

Seasonal Pop-Up

Pop on over for a naturalist-led outdoor activity. Mother Nature will choose what’s in store for visitors of all ages. Registration required.

Saturday, January 29 * 10 am 

Saturday, February 26 * 10 am 

 

Earth Wind and Fire

Enjoy a fun, interactive evening of storytelling by the fire. Learn how the world around us was shaped by wind and fire, and how those two natural forces continue to play a vital role in shaping the earth today. Registration required.

Sunday, January 30 * 6pm  

 

Greg the Groundhog and Friends 

Join in on an interactive scavenger hunt adventure on our trails to find Greg the Groundhog and his animal friends. Registration required.

Saturday, February 5* 11 am-2 pm  

 

Sweetheart Night Hike  

Couples and mates are invited on a guided night hike to experience the romance of the forest.  

Ages 18 & up. Registration required.

Friday, February 11 * 6pm 

 

I Heart Little Red Schoolhouse 

Express your love for the Little Red Schoolhouse by hiking our 1-mile White Oak Trail and restoring habitats for the plants and animals that live here. Enjoy a cup of hot chocolate, and warm up by a fire afterwards. Registration required.

Sunday, February 13 * 11-1 pm   

 

Snuggle Hike 

Love is in the air! Grab your loved one and join us as we discuss animals in love while hiking our trails. Registration required.

Monday, February 14 * 1 pm 

 

Winter Workout and Warm-up

Join a naturalist for a brisk hike on the Black Oak Trail, followed by a nice bonfire to warm up. Registration required.

Saturday, February 19 * 1 pm 

 

Woodpecker Walk

Learn about Illinois woodpeckers and look for sights and sounds of our hard-headed friends on a relaxing, morning walk. Registration required.

Sunday, February 27 * 9 am

 

 

Sagawau Environmental Learning Center

12545 West 111th St, Lemont

630-257-2045

 

THROUGHOUT THE WINTER

 

Sagawau Nordic is open daily from 9 am-4 pm when conditions permit. Trails will be open and groomed as snow conditions permit and could include a late start or an early finish. Watch our Facebook page and call 630-257-2045 for the most up-to-date trail conditions.

 

Ski Equipment Rental

  • Registration required on https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10c0d44a9af2ca7fec25-skirental2, opens on Sunday 8:30 am
  • Payment is by credit or debit card only at the time of rental. Cash will not be accepted.
  • Classic and skate skis available. All children and adult sizes.
  • Rentals available from 9 am – 2 pm daily. Equipment must be returned by 3:45 pm.
  • Rental package includes skis, bindings, boots, and poles.
  • You must supply a valid driver’s license or $100 deposit.
  • You must be 18 years or older, or accompanied by an adult
  • Equipment is for use at Sagawau only.
  • All renters must come prepared in the attire they will ski in—no gear storage or changing allowed in the building. Wire racks are available to leave shoes while renters are skiing.

 

Rental Fees:

  • Individual: $15
  • Senior: $10
  • Family: $40
  • Lesson/Rental: $30

 

All programs are weather dependent. If there is snow, Sagawau Nordic is open, and programs will be put on hold for another time. Call 630-257-2045 or visit our Facebook page to check program status.

 

Restoration Workday

Enjoy the crisp air while staying warm. Put your muscles to work as you help restore habitat by removing invasive plants.Gloves and tools available for loan. Registration required.

Saturday, January 8; Sundays, January 16, 23 * 9:30-11:30 am

 

Feeder Watch

What birds are visiting the feeding station? Watch the feeders while learning how to identify resident birds and winter migrants. Registration required.

Sunday, January 2; Saturday, January 22 * 10 am

 

Winter Insects

Believe it or not, some insects are active through the winter. Search for these cold-hearty survivors. Ages 14 & up. Registration required.

Sunday, January 9 * 1 pm  

 

Skier 101

Thinking about cross-country skiing but don’t know where to start? Sagawau’s certified Professional Ski Instructor of America are here to answer your questions. Registration required.

Saturday, January 15 * 1pm

 

Turtles

Look behind-the-scenes and learn about aquatic turtles. Registration required.

Saturday, January 29 * 1 pm

 

Groundhog Week

Will Sagawau Sam see his shadow on the ski trails this year? Ski by our outdoor exhibit to learn about groundhogs and other winter hibernators. Repeat skiers throughout the week win a prize.

Tuesday, February 1 – Sunday, February 6

 

Sagawau Sam Invitational

Time yourself skiing around Sagawau’s trails. Beat your time for a prize. Conditions permitting.

Monday, February 7-Friday, February 18

 

Ski the White Winter Wave

Don’t let the weather get you down! Join the fun as we take a Polynesian spin on winter by skiing the “frozen wave.” After skiing, relax and enjoy surfing videos and updates for Oahu’s North Shore. Conditions permitting.

Saturday, February 12-Sunday, February 13 * 9 am-2 pm

 

Birkie Week

Ski with wood skis and wool knickers or dress like a Viking to win a prize. Test your knowledge of the Birkebeiner Ski Race, by answering a daily trivia question. Conditions permitting.

Saturday, February 19-Sunday, February 27

 

Birkie Race Day

The American Birkebeiner is the largest Nordic ski race in the U.S. Visit our exhibits and watch the race live.

Saturday, February 26 * 9 am

 

Winter’s Last Gasp

With spring on the way, now is the time to enjoy the last days of skiing. Conditions permitting.

Monday, February 28 – Monday, March 7

 

 

Central Zone

For more information, call 312-533-5751

 

Photography Walk

We’ll hike around Thatcher Woods and down to the Des Plaines River in hopes of capturing some magical winter photography. Registration required. Register by calling 312.533.5751.

Tuesday, January 18 • 9 am

Thatcher Woods, Chicago Ave, west of Thatcher Ave, River Forest

 

All About Fire

Join us for activities all related to fire! Learn safe practices for fire building and containment, then make your own fire and roast a marshmallow.

Saturday, January 29 • 11 am-2 pm

Thatcher Woods Pavilion, 8030 Chicago Ave, River Forest

 

Winter Exploration Day

Learn to navigate using new-found orienteering skills, make a craft using natural materials, track animals and go on a photo scavenger hunt.

Saturday, February 12 • Noon-3 pm

Thatcher Woods, Chicago Ave, west of Thatcher Ave, River Forest

 

Woodworking with Invasives

Build your own walking stick using buckthorn, an invasive species. Adults and children ages 12 & up. Please bring your own work gloves. Registration required. Call 312-533-5751 to register.

Friday, February 25 • 5:30-7:30pm

Thatcher Woods Pavilion, 8030 Chicago Ave, River Forest

 

 

Trailside Museum of Natural History

738 Thatcher Ave, River Forest

708-366-6530

 

Snowshoe Lending
Snowshoes available when snow is 4” deep or more. Available daily on a first come, first served basis. Call 708-366-6530 for more information.

 

Story Trail

Take a walk on a short trail near Trailside Museum and read a story along the way. Afterwards, get an activity bag at the Museum so you can start your own adventure with crafts and activities.

Friday, January 28Monday, February 7 • 9 am-4 pm – “Groundhog Day”

 

Winter Bird Walk
We’ll observe bird feeder action then head out for a trail walk. Binoculars available. Registration required.

Saturday, January 8 • 8:30 am

 

Family Winter Scavenger Hunt and Campfire
Enjoy a winter afternoon on a self-guided hunt for signs of animals and plant life on your Scavenger Hunt List, followed by snacks and relaxing around a campfire. Registration required.

Sunday, January 16 • 1-2:30 pm

 

Ice Sun Catcher Craft and Walk
Join us as we get outdoors and make a fun and easy craft. A short winter hike will follow while our sun catchers freeze. Children 5 & up w/adult.  Registration required.

Saturday, January 22 • 1:30 pm

 

Live from Thatcher Woods

Join Forest Preserves staff for a quick check in live from Thatcher Woods.  We will discuss amenities of the site, what you can do there, information about the trail system and upcoming programs that are happening at that site.

Wednesday, January 26 • Noon

Trailside Museum of Natural History Facebook Page

 

Story Trail: “Groundhog Day”
Take a walk on a short trail near Trailside Museum and read the posted children’s story along the way. Afterwards, get an activity bag at the Museum so you can start your own adventure with crafts and activities.

Friday, January 28-Monday, February 7 • 9 am-4 pm

 

Winter Tree Secrets

Join a naturalist as we discover several ways to identify trees in wintertime. Ages 18 & up. Registration required.

Saturday, January 29 • 1:30 pm


Groundhog Day Celebration

Hear how this animal got its own holiday, do special activities and make your own pop-up groundhog weather predictor.Registration required.

Wednesday, February 2 • 1:30 pm

 

Owls of Trailside

Come visit with us to learn about the fascinating owls that call Trailside home and meet one of Trailside’s ambassador owls!Registration required.

Saturday, February 5 • 1:30 pm

 

Live from Bemis Woods – North

Join Forest Preserves staff for a quick check in live from Bemis Woods.  We will discuss amenities of the site, what you can do there, information about the trail system and upcoming programs that are happening at that site.

Thursday, February 10 • Noon

Trailside Museum of Natural History Facebook Page

 

Warm Hearts, Cold Noses Hike
Enjoy a guided nature walk on the scenic trails surrounding Trailside as we discuss love in the animal world. Ages 18 & up.Registration required.

Sunday, February 13 • 1:30 pm

 

Cold Blooded (Animals!)

Learn about the “cool” adaptations that help animals survive winter, followed by a short nature walk to see what winter animals are around and about! Registration required.

Saturday, February 19 • 10:30 am

 

Winter Dog Days Dog Walk

This one is for the dog walkers! Join a naturalist as you and your best friend go on a casual nature walk along Trailside’s scenic trails. Dogs must be leashed. Registration required.

Saturday, February 26 • 10:30 am

 

 

North Zone

For more information and to register call 224-456-8602

 

Winter Watercolors

Join us for a winter art workshop as we explore the beauty of nature through watercolor painting.  Materials provided. All ages. Must register for demos. Drop in available for additional watercolor activities. Registration required.

Saturday, January 8 • 10 am-1 pm 

Volunteer Resource Center, 6100 N Central Ave, Chicago

 

Winter Exploration Day

Find your way using a compass, follow local animal tracks and more. Warm up by the indoor fire and make a s’more. Snowshoeing and sledding available, weather permitting.

Saturday, January 22 • 10 am-1 pm

Caldwell Woods Warming Shelter, W Devon Ave & N Nagle Ave, Chicago

 

Winter Scavenger Hunt

Many animals and plants are nestled away during the wintertime. Explore the Preserves and follow written and visual clues to discover where the flora and fauna live! Ages 5-12.

Wednesday, February 9 • 3-4:30 pm

LaBagh Woods, Grove 1, N Cicero Ave, north of W Foster Ave, Chicago

 

Winter Woodworking

Repurpose the common European buckthorn into something new! Equipment provided. Ages 10 & up. Participants under 16 must be accompanied by an adult. Registration required.

Wednesday, February 16 • 4:30 pm

Caldwell Woods Warming Shelter, W Devon Ave & N Nagle Ave, Chicago

 

 

River Trail Nature Center

3120 Milwaukee Ave, Northbrook

847-824-8360 

 

Snowshoe Lending at River Trail

Snowshoes available for use on-site when snow is 4” or more.  Limited numbers available on a first come, first served basis.  Call for more information. 

 

Winter’s Wild Walk

Learn about our wildlife in winter while on a guided walk. Program begins at 1 pm if there is a 4” base of snow (limited number of snowshoes available, registration required to reserve snowshoes.) 

Sundays, January 9, 16, 23, 30; February 20 • 1:30 pm 

 

Volunteer Workday

We need your help! Join us for a couple hours to work on making River Trail even better. Ages 10 & up; children under 15 with an adult. Registration required.

Saturdays, January 8, February 5 • 10 am-Noon  

  

Animal Encounter

Join our staff for an up-close look at one of our animals.   

Monday, January 17 • 1:30 pm  

 

Small Serendipity

River Trail’s staff talks with you about nature and provides you with instructions for making a craft at home. Supplies for craft at home are available at River Trail for pick up, if needed, starting 1/16.  

Ages 4-8.  

Wednesday, January 19 • 10 am  

River Trail Nature Center Facebook Live  

  

Small Serendipity

River Trail’s staff talks with you about nature and provides instructions for making a craft at home. Supplies for craft at home are available at River Trail for pick up, if needed, starting 1/31. Ages 4-8.  

Wednesday, February 2 • 10 am  

River Trail Nature Center Facebook Live  

 

Groundhog Day

Learn the story behind this peculiar holiday. 

Wednesday, February 2 • 2 pm 

River Trail Nature Center Facebook Live  

 

Insects in Winter

Hunt our trails for the mighty snow flea and learn about winter insects. 

Sunday, February 6 • 1:30 pm  

 

Sweetheart Night Hike

Couples and friends are invited to enjoy the nature center grounds at their leisure.  Hike our candlelit trails and relax around a campfire. Cost: $20/person. Registration & payment required 2/5.  No refunds. Ages 18 & up.

Saturday, February 12 • 6 – 9 pm 

 

Superb Owl Party

Help us celebrate owls and learn what makes them so unique! 

Sunday, February 13 • 1:30 pm  

 

Small Serendipity 

River Trail’s staff talks with you about nature and provides instructions for making a craft at home. Supplies for craft at home are available at River Trail for pick up, if needed, starting 2/14. Ages 4-8. 

Wednesday, February 16 • 10 am 

River Trail Nature Center Facebook Live  

 

Sunrise Nature Photography

An outdoor workshop focusing on amazing winter scenes. Register by 1/30. Location provided upon registration. Ages 13 & up.

Saturday, February 19 • 6-9 am 

 

Animal Encounter

Join our staff for an up-close look at one of our animals.   

Monday, February 21 • 1:30 pm 

 

Samplin’ Syrup

Join us virtually as we taste and talk maple syrup. 

RTNC Facebook Live 

Thursday, February 24 • 12 pm 

 

Sap’s Rising 

Walk in the sugar maple forest to learn about the sweet process of maple syrup making. 

Saturday & Sunday, February 26 & 27 • 10:30 am & 1:30 pm 

 

Northwest Zone

For more information, call 224-456-8602

 

Winter Woodworking

Repurpose the common European buckthorn into something new!  Equipment provided.  Intended for ages 10 & up.  Participants under 16 must be accompanied by an adult. Registration required. To register, call 224-456-8602.

Saturday, January 14 • 1-3pm

Rolling Knolls, 11N260 Rohrssen Rd, Elgin

 

Adult Winter Watercolors

Join us for a winter art workshop as we explore the beauty of nature through watercolor painting.  Materials provided. Ages 21 & up. BYOB (no glass). Registration required. To register, call 224-456-8602. 

Friday, February 4 • 6 pm

Rolling Knolls, 11N260 Rohrssen Rd, Elgin

 

 

Crabtree Nature Center

3 Stover Rd, Barrington Hills

847-381-6592

 

Snowshoe Rentals

Snowshoes are available when snow is 4” or greater. Equipment is limited and loaned on a first come, first served basis. Driver’s license required.

 

Naturalist’s Choice

The natural world is always changing. A naturalist will share a surprise seasonal selection!

Sunday, January 9 * 1 pm

 

Owl Hike

Join us for a talk about these nocturnal hunters. Afterwards we’ll look for these unique predators on a 0.5-mile hike. Ages 8 & up. Registration required.

Friday, January 14 * 7 pm

 

Surviving Phantom
Join us for a face paced 3-mile winter hike around Phantom Prairie loop. Ages 18 & up.

Saturday, January 15 * 10 am

 

Illuminated Night Hike

Crabtree is staying up late for this special hike in the dark. Giant’s Hollow will be lit by candles and the (nearly) full moon for a hike few have a chance to see. Registration required.

Sunday, January 16 * 7 pm

 

Squirrel!

National Squirrel Appreciation Day is celebrated each year in January. This year, we want to celebrate by teaching you about some of our favorite bushy-tailed friends. 

Saturday, January 22 * 1 pm

 

Fur-real Fun

How do local animals stay warm in winter? Learn about winter animal coverings in this outdoor program.

Sunday, January 30 * 1 pm

 

Snow Day

Drop in for snow day fun on the front lawn. We’ll be getting the toys out and have fun activities planned for the snow. Program is weather dependent and requires adequate snow. Please call ahead for conditions.

Sundays, February 6, 13, 20, 27 * Noon-2pm

 

Groundhog’s Day

Only one animal has a day named after it! Learn all about these “super sleepers” and the history behind the holiday.

Saturday, February 5 * 1 pm

 

Resting Reptiles

Let’s discover together how our native reptiles are surviving Winter. Ages 6 & up.

Saturday, February 12 * 1 pm

 

Trail Tales

Have fun on a winter day with a guided story trail and activities! Ages 2-6 with a caregiver. 

Saturday, February 19 * 10:30 am

 

Owl Investigations

Learn about our resident owls and investigate what they had for dinner! Includes outdoor talk and pellet dissection. Registration required.

Saturday, February 26 * 1 pm

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Ray Hanania
Ray Hanania
Ray Hanania is an award-winning columnist, author & former Chicago City Hall reporter (1977-1992). A veteran who served during the Vietnam War and the recipient of four SPJ Peter Lisagor Awards for column writing, Hanania writes weekly opinion columns on mainstream American & Chicagoland topics for the Southwest News-Herald, Des Plaines Valley News, the Regional News, The Reporter Newspapers, and Suburban Chicagoland.  

Hanania also writes about Middle East issues for the Arab News, and The Arab Daily News criticizing government policies in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

Hanania was named "Best Ethnic American Columnist" by the New America Media in November 2007, and is the 2009 recipient of the SPJ National Sigma Delta Chi Award for column writing.

Email Ray Hanania at rghanania@gmail.com.

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