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President's Letter: Welcoming Fall in the Preserves

Before we welcome a new season, I want to thank everyone who participated in our 100 Years / 100 Events Centennial Celebration which wrapped up at the end of September. Throughout the entire week, we estimated nearly 10,000 visitors enjoyed more than 100 events and activities.

I want to encourage those who came to continue visiting the preserves. Autumn is upon us and there is still plenty to do and see in the Forest Preserves. 

The fall cornucopia of colors is a sight to behold within Cook County. Busse Woods in Elk Grove Village is an excellent spot, as is Deer Grove West in Palatine. The entire Palos area is bright with fall colors. Pulaski Woods and Bullfrog Lake are prime spots, as is the top of the stairs at Swallow Cliff, which offers a bird’s eye view of the wide array of colors. The southernmost tip of Cook County at Sauk Lake is filled with oak trees, and their changing colors can be enjoyed along the Thorn Creek Trail.

October is also high season for migrating waterfowl, which can be observed on almost any body of water within the Preserves.

Families can also take advantage of the various fall-themed activities happening throughout the County. And River Trail Nature Center in Northbrook is hosting its signature Fall Festival which includes pumpkin bowling and painting, hayrides and storytelling.

See you in the Preserves!

Toni Preckwinkle, President
Forest Preserves of Cook County