The National Wildlife federation is sponsoring the third annual Chicago Hike & Seek event will be held at Bemis Woods South in Cook County on September 29, 2012. This lush 1 mile trail will surely be an adventure for hikers of all ages! Here, children will learn to appreciate all the beauty the great outdoors has to offer, all the while having fun at each adventurous Stop & Study location.
By trading screen time for green time, this go-at-your-own-pace event will surely create a lasting impression and promote a healthy lifestyle for kids of all ages! Parking will be at the Grove 7 lot.
Saturday, September 29, 2012 12 p.m. - 3 p.m.
(Please note: You must arrive between 12 p.m. - 1 p.m.)
Forest Preserve District of Cook County Bemis Woods Picnic Grove #7 * 11500 Ogden Avenue Western Springs, IL 60558
*To get to Grove # 7 follow the preserve road north to the most northern grove off of Ogden. Number 7 is where the parking lot loops around and where the hiking trails begin.
Please Note: Registration fees cannot be transferred and are non-refundable.
Saturday, September 29, 2012 12 p.m. - 3 p.m.
(Please note: You must arrive between 12 p.m. - 1 p.m.)
Forest Preserve District of Cook County Bemis Woods Picnic Grove #7 * 11500 Ogden Avenue Western Springs, IL 60558
*To get to Grove # 7 follow the preserve road north to the most northern grove off of Ogden. Number 7 is where the parking lot loops around and where the hiking trails begin.
Please Note: Registration fees cannot be transferred and are non-refundable.
Event Updates
AT BASE CAMP
Northern Illinois Raptor Rehab
- Learn about the rehabilitation of injured, sick and orphaned birds of prey during this live wildlife display. You’re sure to create lasting memories as you and your children interact with these amazing creatures!
Midewin National Tallgrass Prairie
- At Base camp, you will have the opportunity to build “nature sculptures” with the Midewin National Tallgrass Prairie of the US Forest Service. During this activity, kids will utilize local, natural materials that surround them to create artistic “habitats”.
Cook County Forest Preserve
- This year, the Cook County Forest Preserve will be joined by their very own snake and turtle for an up-close and personal encounter.
Promotional Partner, REI
- REI will have a presentation on PEAK, a hands-on, interactive program where children are taught to have fun outside while practicing responsible outdoor recreation. Children will also learn the 7 Leave No Trace principles: know before you go; choose the right path; pack your trash; leave what you find; be careful with fire; respect wildlife; and be kind to other visitors. REI will also be handing out some cool goodies as well.
ON THE TRAIL
Plant Station
Plants are key components of the eco-system – the foundational aspect for which both humans and wildlife depend. At this station, your kids will have the opportunity to take different surrounding plant parts and create a take-home solar print to help with identification. When left in the sun, the paper will change color and move from blue to white!
Insect Station
Insects come in all shapes and sizes and play an important role in our environment. At this station, children can make a bug box to observe what critters live around them and what homes they need to survive.
Bird Station
Birds as a species group are one of the largest, and each type of bird has different ways in which it eats. By using common household items they will replicate bird songs, and will learn the call of the wild.
Reptiles Station
Ever wonder what the difference is between turtles and tortoises? At this station, children can follow the turtle trail and hunt for eggs. Fun facts and questions lie within each egg. Collect four and get a turtle sticker. Ever heard of a pet rock? What about a pet rock turtle? Get creative and paint your own!
Mammals Station
Mammals as a species are very diverse in nature. Did you know that dolphins and bats use objects to “bounce” off their communications to identify objects and talk? During this echolocation activity, kids will be able to play “telephone” and communicate with each other through a series of tubing.
