With the New Year here, winter weather has also shown up, providing an abundance of exciting recreational opportunities in the Forest Preserves of Cook County. Throughout the County, visitors can enjoy snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, sledding, ice skating and more.

Additionally, our six Nature Centers offer numerous educational programs and events throughout the season. From learning about the birds undeterred by cold temperatures to participating in a peaceful guided winter hike, there are plenty of opportunities for people of all ages. Check out our Events Page for more.

In this issue of The Forest Way, readers will learn about a new program at Trailside Museum of Natural History: a nature-themed book club. The book club is offered in partnership with Chicago Audubon Society. Participation is free and open to adults and teens. The first gathering will be on February 22, 2018 to discuss “Coyote America” by Dan Flores.

Also in this issue of The Forest Way is a list of January volunteer opportunities and training sessions. Anyone interested in volunteering in the Forest Preserves can find nearby opportunities by visiting our Volunteer Page.

One excellent upcoming volunteer opportunity is the MLK, Jr. Day of Service event at Dan Ryan Woods on Monday, January 15. Attendees can try their hand at restoration by helping remove invasive plants while learning about efforts being made to maintain healthy habitats. Plus, attendees can also enjoy sledding (weather permitting) and winter family fun activities.

We hope to see you in the Preserves!

Toni Preckwinkle, President
Forest Preserves of Cook County