Hikes and Walks
Woodcock Watch
Oak Ridge Prairie Wednesday, April 17, 2013 7:30 p.m. Ages 10+ Free
219-844-3188 to register Individual sign-ups only (please no groups)
If you are looking for a unique way of celebrating the arrival of spring, join a Lake County Parks naturalist for a “woodcock watch”. The American Woodcock is best known for the male’s spectacular flight displays over its breeding grounds. These displays occur at dusk and again at dawn. The birds circle up to hundreds of feet high and then descend in a zigzag flight. Once they have landed, their distinctive “peent” calls penetrate the silence of the evening or early morning hours. Anyone who has witnessed the flight of the woodcock recognizes it as one of the earliest signs of spring. Some woodcocks return as early as February and “perform” while snow is still on the ground. Join us at dusk as we stake out an area to usher in spring with our fascinating crepuscular friend, the American Woodcock.
Bird Migration Hike
Gibson Woods Friday, May 10, 2013 8 a.m. Ages 10 + Free 219-844-3188 to register
Individual sign-ups only (please no groups)
Many birds returning in the spring are actually considered tropical birds. Ornithologists believe that these neo-tropical birds are “spreading out” in the spring to find breeding space after spending the winter in their true home, the tropics. Birds like warblers, vireos, tanagers, and orioles are among the neo-tropical migrants that can be seen in our area in early to mid-May. Natural areas like Gibson Woods are critically important for these migrants to find the right kinds of foods that help sustain them during their long journey north to their breeding grounds. Join a Lake County Parks naturalist along with other bird enthusiasts to seek out and learn about these colorful migrants. Dress for the weather. Bring binoculars, sturdy shoes, and a field guide. Bird field guides are available at the Gibson Woods gift shop.
Wildflower Walks
Gibson Woods Friday, May 24 and Friday, June 14, 2013 9:30 a.m. Ages 10 + Free
219-844-3188 to register Individual sign-ups only (please no groups)
More than 300 species of native plants are found at Gibson Wood, including a variety of rare and unique species. Some plants produce a sweet fragrance while others may have an unpleasant smell. Hummingbirds pollinate some plants and some are parasites to other plants. Join a Lake County Parks naturalist for a walk through the nature preserve to learn more about our native flora. See the many varieties of colors and forms that these flowers produce. Gain a few identification tips and discover how flowers are a benefit to the environment.
Tall Grass Prairie Hike
Oak Ridge Prairie Friday, August 16, 2013 9 a.m. Ages 18+ 219-844-3188 to register
Individual sign ups only (no groups)
Very few remnants of Tall Grass Prairie remain in the Midwest. Those that have survived provide some of the most biologically diverse habitats in our area. Visit an example of the once vast Tall Grass Prairie and learn how preservation and restoration have worked together to make Oak Ridge Prairie a prime example of these efforts. Explore the flora and fauna that inhabit these places. Comfortable walking shoes and insect repellent are recommended. Meet in the parking lot by the kiosk.
Fall Bird Migration Hike
Gibson Woods
Friday, September 6, 2013
9:30 a.m.
Registration required (Please no groups). Ages 12+ Call 219-844-3188
Looking for a birding challenge? Try your hand, and binoculars, at identifying migrating songbirds in their fall plumages. It's not easy to sort them all out. Some of them have changed colors and the sounds they make have changed from songs to various chirps. Join a Lake County Parks naturalist for a walk through the trails at Gibson Woods to learn a few tips on identifying migrating songbirds as they make their way South for the winter. Join a Lake County Parks naturalist, as well as other bird enthusiasts, to seek out and learn more about these colorful migrants. Dress for the weather. Bring binoculars, a field guide, and wear sturdy shoes. Bird field guides are available for sale at the Gibson Woods gift shop. Registration is required. To register and for more information call 219-844-3188.
Fall Color Walk
Gibson Woods
Saturday, October 19, 2013
9:30 a.m.
There are plenty of places to see beautiful fall color in Lake County Indiana. Start by taking a leisurely walk with a Lake County Parks naturalist at Gibson Woods to enjoy the range of colors in an untouched natural landscape. Mid October is the peak time for seasonal changes to occur. Learn more about our natural areas and find out how leaves change color. Wear comfortable shoes and dress for the weather. Registration is required. Call 219-844-3188 to register.
Be sure to visit your other Lake County Parks to see more fall colors at their best. They're one of nature's best shows in town in the fall.
For reservations and more information about the Lake County Parks Call 219-769-PARK
Mon-Fri 8:30am to 4:30pm Central Time (Chicago Time)
Lake County Parks and Recreation Department Corporate Office
8411 East Lincoln Highway, Crown Point, Indiana 46307
Just west of Deep River WaterparK 4.5 miles east of I-65 on Route 30