October 17, 2017 – Maple Grove Forest Preserve, Downers Grove. MAPS members visited Maple Grove Forest Preserve Tuesday morning to join in on a nature hike provided by guides from the DuPage Forest Preserve. Our guides provided us with some information on tree identification and why leaves change color in the fall. The trails were well kept, and we had a nice little walk. We didn’t see a whole lot of fall color, but I’m sure this preserve will look nice in the weeks to come.
October 19, 2017 – Photo Outing/Hike – WATERFALL GLEN – Darien – Thursday. MAPS members visited Waterfall Glen Thursday afternoon to join in on a nature hike provided by guides from the DuPage Forest Preserve. The fall colors were evident, and the creek and waterfall were flowing freely.
October 24, 2017 – Photo Outing/Hike – GREENE VALLEY – Naperville – Tuesday. NO photos submitted.
October 31, 2017 – Photo Outing/Hike – MEACHAM GROVE – Bloomingdale – Tuesday. NO photos submitted.
Three hearty MAPS nature photographers braved the coldest Halloween Day in 20 years to hike through woodland groves, wetlands and a meandering Spring Brook Creek pathway to observe an owl and hawks, woodpeckers, a white tailed deer, and other native wildlife. Although temps were under 40 degrees and a bit windy, attractive fall maples could still be photographed in their full strength yellow glory providing a stunning background for shagbark hickories, various oak species and fire red sumacs. We all agreed this preserve definitely requires a return visit during all four seasons. A big thank you is extended to the DuPage Forest Preserve Rangers and their volunteer, Jesse, for making all four preserve hike/outings definitely interesting, educational and great fun,
DRIVING DIRECTIONS AND TRAILS MAPS: http://www.dupageforest.org/Conservation/Forest_Preserves/Meacham_Grove.aspx.
Photos up soon.