The seasonal transition from summer to fall is a wonderful time to experience the Forest Preserves of Cook County. While visitors can continue to enjoy hiking, biking or camping, perhaps they’ll spot some autumn colors beginning to appear in the forest canopy, stop to view late-blooming wildflowers, or witness various wildlife preparing for winter.
In this issue of the Forest Way, readers will learn about the science behind fall colors. We’ve also provided some recommended fall color hikes as well as a list of upcoming fall color events and programs. For a full list of events and programs, be sure to check out our Events Page.
Also in this issue of the Forest Way is a link to view the winning images from this year’s photo contest. These photos highlight some of the incredible scenes that can be seen throughout the Forest Preserves of Cook County. If the opportunity to take in the breathtaking colors of autumn isn’t enough to excite residents about exploring the Forest Preserves, I believe these stunning images will serve as inspiration to plan a trip to a nearby forest preserve site.
Finally, Forest Way readers will learn about the Forest Preserves’ Sustainability & Climate Resiliency Master Plan. As an important part of the Forest Preserves’ founding mission to protect and preserve our natural resources, we are committing ourselves to use sustainable and low-impact practices in our operations. We are also challenging ourselves to consistently perform all of our functions in the most environmentally responsible ways.
Don’t forget: This year the Forest Preserves will begin selling picnic and special event permits for next year’s events beginning on November 15. We hope this change helps residents by allowing for more time to plan gatherings and celebrations. The public can purchase permits online, or stop in the Forest Preserves’ General Headquarters or Dan Ryan Woods Visitor Center. Learn more on our Permits Page.
We hope to see you in the Preserves!
Toni Preckwinkle, President
Forest Preserves of Cook County