Proudly presented by The Ottawa Visitors Center, Starved Rock Country, The Conservation Foundation and The Illinois Department of Natural Resources, National Take a Hike Day will offer two free hikes, open to the public.
Each hike focuses on a theme that makes Ottawa’s parks unique. You can learn about ecology and preservation at Dayton Bluffs, and experience some of the largest pieces of landscape art in the country at Buffalo Rock State Park!
These hikes are an excellent way to get one last day out on the trails before winter sets in. If you participate in any of the hikes you will receive a free collectible button (one button per participant, while supplies last).
You must provide your own transportation to any of these locations. Please make sure to bring seasonally appropriate hiking clothing and foot ware. This event is open to hikers of all experience levels, but bare in mind you will be hiking for over an hour on various grades and elevations.
This event is free and open to all ages, but you must RSVP to participate in these hikes. Reserve a space for any hike, or both, just visit www.pickusottawail.com or call 815-434-2737.
HIKE SCHEDULE:
Dayton Bluffs Hike:
10 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.
From Indigenous American burial mounds, natural cascades, and beautiful forest scenery, seasoned Dayton Bluffs expert David Manigold will take you on a guided morning hike of Ottawa’s newest park!
2997 IL-71, Ottawa, IL 61341 (Just to the North of Hanks Farm Restaurant) Tour will depart from telegraph pole west of the parking lot at 10 a.m.
This FREE guided hike is provided courtesy of David Manigold and The Conservation Foundation.
Buffalo Rock:
2 p.m. - 3:30 p.m.
Nestled between the serene prairie trails and magnificent river views at Buffalo Rock State Park are giant earthen sculptures! Join me, Ryan Searl of starvedrockcountry.com, as I recount the history of this internationally renowned art installation, Effigy Tumuli Mounds, and give you the storied history of Buffalo Rock State Park!
1300 N 27th Rd, Ottawa, IL 61350 Tour will depart from the buffalo enclosure at 2 p.m.
This FREE guided hike is provided courtesy of Starved Rock Country.
For more information, visit: www.pickusottawail.com/event/national-take-hike-day/
If you're planning on taking the hike, be sure to RSVP over on Facebook.