Find Algonquin's hidden gems during nature walks

A tour of Algonquin these days might include shopping spots on Randall Road and specialty dining along Main Street.

But natural wonders?

Of course, says Barb Wilson of the Algonquin Family Nature Club.

Sponsored by the village's Department of Events and Recreation, the club meets several times each season to explore local green spaces that too often seem to go unnoticed.

"I love passing on my enthusiasm for nature, especially to kids," said Wilson, a nature expert who also is a steward for natural areas like the Lake in the Hills Fen.

"They haven't found it yet."

And so she takes families on hands-on treks around village wetlands, creeks and wooded areas, uncovering animals, wildflowers, seeds -- and maybe even a budding nature buff.

A trip to Towne Park in the heart of downtown Algonquin can show participants that flora and fauna thrives even in the middle of an urban area, for instance.

Fall leaves are perfect for a discussion of why trees change color and how they get ready to "hibernate" during winter's harsh weather, Wilson said.

And those burrs that stick to your socks as you search the woods for fallen walnuts? Seeds from the burdock plant, Wilson says they inspired the invention of Velcro.

"The woodland (there) is really quite beautiful," she said. "There's a lot of hidden, really neat stuff in Towne Park."

Local families apparently think so.

Depending on the weather, just one or as many as a dozen will take Wilson up on the chance for some quiet time with nature.

And they often go home with goodies like coloring pages, water bottle necklaces and miniature pumpkins.

"It's really nice that Barb is able to get that personal touch with the families," said Sarah Stefan, recreation superintendent for the village of Algonquin.

"The kids just adore her."

The series continues Saturday with a visit to Towne Park, and then concludes in the spring with a March visit to Woodscreek, along the bike path. Additional nature walks are offered year-round, highlighting each season's particular offerings.

The program is free and does not require registration.

"This is really a nice opportunity to find out about a park that's right in their own backyard," Stefan said.

If you can't wait until Wilson's next nature club walk, she also will lead a program on the hibernation and migration habits of animals for those age 3 and older at 10 a.m. Wednesday. The fee for those programs is $5 per child with an adult.

For details, call the Department of Events and Recreation at (847) 658-2700 or visit www.algonquin.org.