3 Sites for Nature Journaling in Downers Grove

One year ago, I had plans to visit a few nature trails in the area in an attempt to expand my journaling efforts. Unfortunately, life happened, and COVID restrictions reared their ugly heads again, and I never had the chance to explore these places. COVID is something we are still struggling with, but there are still opportunities to explore outside places.

So, I’m revisiting my plans to checkout these sites in Downers Grove:

#1: Maple Grove

First on my list is a historic nature preserve in Downers Grove that I can almost walk to from my house. It is a piece of the maple forest that existed before the town was here, and is an effort to preserve that ecosystem. There are supposed to be a variety of birds and flower species that can be seen along the trail and near the creek.

#2: Belmont Prairie

For my second site, I'll change up the terrain and visit what is advertised as "one of the last original prairies in Illinois." This nature preserve looks like it has a nice winding trail that takes you through the heart of the prairie and will provide opportunity to see a whole variety of plants and wildlife.

#3: Lyman Woods Nature Center

At 150 acres, this is the biggest site of the three. It also has a nature center, staff, and free equipment for checkout. There are several different types of terrain including woods, meadows, and wetlands, with all of the wildlife that comes with them. I can see myself making multiple trips to this site.

Look for Instagram posts and additional blog entries based on my trips to these locations.

Tyson Livingston

Artist, writer, and musician sharing my work from the wilds of Texas.

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