Enjoy forest preserves during fitness walks

Adults can get a healthy workout while enjoying nature with the Forest Fitness Walks fall series beginning today at a variety of DuPage County forest preserves.

The brisk hikes are scheduled from 8:30 to 10 a.m. select Mondays at the following forest preserves: James "Pate" Philip State Park in Bartlett on Oct. 5; West Branch Forest Preserve in Bartlett on Oct. 12; Pratt's Wayne Woods Forest Preserve in Wayne on Nov. 2; Danada Forest Preserve in Wheaton on Nov. 9; and Meacham Grove in Bloomingdale on Nov. 23.

The walks will continue through Dec. 14. A special 10-mile Forest Fitness Walk will be from 8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Monday, Nov. 16, at Waterfall Glen in Darien.

"Whether you join us for just one or come back each week, you'll be able to explore some of the county's most popular trails and experience the beauty of the outdoors," said program leader Dave Andrusyk, a naturalist at Fullersburg Woods Nature Education Center.

Hikes cost $6 per person, per hike, or a discounted 10-program pass can be bought for $40. Participants should register in advance by calling Fullersburg Woods Nature Education Center at (630) 850-8110 or online at dupageforest.org.

"Forest Fitness Walks are a great way to combine the health benefits of walking while getting your daily dose of nature," said Forest Preserve District Commissioner Jeff Redick, District 2.

The district offers more than 80 miles of multipurpose trails through numerous natural areas. Access is free, and most locations are open daily from one hour after sunrise to one hour after sunset. Maps are available at information kiosks at many preserves and online. Visitors can also request maps by emailing forest@dupageforest.org or by calling (630) 933-7248.

"A walk in the woods is great for your mind as well as your body," Forest Preserve District President Joe Cantore said.