McHenry County Conservation District notes

Flowers are blooming, birds are singing and the sweet spring air is beckoning you to get outdoors and hike.

McHenry County Conservation District is offering three guided hikes designed especially for adults this May.

Registration is required for each program. To sign up, call (815) 479-5779 or register online at www.MCCDistrict.org.

• Color of Coral, 8 to 10 a.m. May 17, Coral Woods, 7400 Somerset, Marengo.

As the green leaves emerge, they contrast sharply with the brilliant red of the scarlet tanager and the iridescent blue of the indigo bunting. The group will scan the trees for glimpses of these birds and many others, as well as witness the colorful carpet of wildflowers.

The group will hike two miles at a leisurely pace. Binoculars are provided if you do not have your own.

The hike, open to adults, is free.

• Rachel Carson Birthday Celebration Hike, 6:30 to 8 p.m. May 19 at Pleasant Valley, Shelter 1, 13315 Pleasant Valley Road, Woodstock.

Come honor and celebrate the life of this naturalist, scientist and author of "Silent Spring." Learn how this book changed the conventional wisdom of her times regarding the use of chemicals to better "control" our environment.

Experience what she meant by the "sense of wonder" on our walk as we share some of her writings.

Bring your favorite Rachel Carson writings to share. Dress for the weather. The hike, open to adults, is free.

• Wayfinding Workshop, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. May 20 at Prairieview Education Center, 2112 Behan Road, Crystal Lake.

This is a beginner orienteering and geocaching workshop for adults. It is designed to provide youth leaders and other adults with basic way finding skills to share with the children in their groups or families.

Following basic instruction in properly using both a compass and a GPS unit, hikers will participate in a beginner way finding course. Dress for the weather and come prepared to hike.

The hike, open to adults, is free.