(Event Photo by Dee Hudson)

Explore the prairie, woodlands and wetlands of Nachusa Grasslands during a new lineup of free guided Nature Walking Tours in August. Summer interpreter Heather Herakovich leads each outing, giving visitors a closer look at the plants, wildlife, history and restoration work that make Nachusa such a remarkable landscape.

August tours include:

Aug. 1 | 10 a.m.–noon — Enjoy a leisurely 0.5-mile stroll around the Visitor Center loop and discover the prairie’s living history.

Aug. 9 | 1–3 p.m. — Walk a 1-mile loop through Stone Barn Savanna and learn about the ongoing work that keeps this open woodland healthy.

Aug. 15 | 10 a.m.–noon — Head to Clear Creek for a 2-mile walk exploring how fire shapes the prairie and supports its wildflowers and wildlife.

Aug. 16 | 10 a.m.–noon — Take a 1-mile guided walk through Thelma Carpenter to compare a remnant Illinois prairie with a nearby restored prairie.

Aug. 22 | 10 a.m.–noon — Hike three miles at Big Jump while learning about the victories and challenges of prairie restoration. Come prepared—wet feet may be part of this one!

Aug. 29 | 10 a.m.–noon — Explore sandstone outcroppings, oak woodlands and wetlands during a scenic 2-mile hike through Stone Barn Savanna.

Tours are free, but advance signup is required. The Nachusa Grasslands Visitor Center is located at 2075 Lowden Road in Franklin Grove.