Enjoy guided, evening hike in Tekakwitha Woods May 18

Get your daily 10,000 steps in, during evening hikes with the Forest Preserve District of Kane County.

Each month, participants will take an invigorating two-hour hike at a different forest preserve.

"Trek with a Naturalist" programs are designed for those who like active hiking. The hikes will be led by a naturalist, who will interpret the ecology of the preserve along the way.

The next hike will take place from 6-8 p.m. Thursday, May 18, at Tekakwitha Woods Forest Preserve, 35W076 Villa Marie Road in St. Charles.

This 65-acre site at the big bend of the Fox River is rich in natural and cultural history. An oak tree at Tekakwitha dates to 1864 and links us to its ancestors' past on the edge of the prairie. On the lee side of the Fox River, the area now known as Tekakwitha Woods was protected from the heat of the prairie fires and was likely forested for thousands of years. Today, the natural features of Tekakwitha Woods include an oak-maple forest on the uplands, floodplain forest along the river, and restored prairie in former farm fields.

A network of foot trails winds through the fields and forested ravines of the preserve. In spring, the forest floor is carpeted with wildflowers and the trees are filled with birds. In summer, the wooded trails provide cool shade and enjoyable wildlife viewing. The Fox River Trail runs along the eastern boundary of the forest preserve, along the former Elgin-Aurora trolley line. Walking trails include grass footpaths and handicap-accessible asphalt trails.

These programs are free, and for ages 18 and older. Advance registration is required. Call (630) 444-3190 or email programs@kaneforest.com to register.

For information on upcoming nature programs, visit www.kaneforest.com. Follow them on Facebook or Twitter.