August Nature Tours at Nachusa Grasslands

Explore the prairie, woodlands and wetlands of Nachusa Grasslands during a new lineup of free guided Nature Walking Tours in August. Summer interpreter Heather Herakovich leads each outing, giving visitors a closer look at the plants, wildlife, history and restoration work that make Nachusa such a remarkable landscape.

August tours include:

Aug. 1 | 10 a.m.–noon — Enjoy a leisurely 0.5-mile stroll around the Visitor Center loop and discover the prairie’s living history.

Aug. 9 | 1–3 p.m. — Walk a 1-mile loop through Stone Barn Savanna and learn about the ongoing work that keeps this open woodland healthy.

Aug. 15 | 10 a.m.–noon — Head to Clear Creek for a 2-mile walk exploring how fire shapes the prairie and supports its wildflowers and wildlife.

Aug. 16 | 10 a.m.–noon — Take a 1-mile guided walk through Thelma Carpenter to compare a remnant Illinois prairie with a nearby restored prairie.

Aug. 22 | 10 a.m.–noon — Hike three miles at Big Jump while learning about the victories and challenges of prairie restoration. Come prepared—wet feet may be part of this one!

Aug. 29 | 10 a.m.–noon — Explore sandstone outcroppings, oak woodlands and wetlands during a scenic 2-mile hike through Stone Barn Savanna.

Tours are free, but advance signup is required. The Nachusa Grasslands Visitor Center is located at 2075 Lowden Road in Franklin Grove.

(Event Photo by Dee Hudson)