Experience the beauty of autumn at the Sue and Wes Dixon Waterfowl Refuge! Join TWI staff for two guided hikes and learn about the site’s unique flora and fauna. The Dixon Waterfowl Refuge is a 3,000-acre natural area home to lakes, marshes, seeps, savannas, and prairies supporting high levels of biodiversity, including more than 730 native plant species and 270 bird species. We’ll enjoy an autumn day in nature, and perhaps spot some wildlife, rare plants, and migrating birds along the way!

Fall Frolic Schedule
10:00 am Arrival
Please arrive early to use the restroom, fill your water bottle, and get settled.
10:30 am Violet Meadow Guided Hike
Meet at the Bunkhouse and head out on a 1.6 mile hike along the new Violet Meadow trail. View the trail’s new interpretative signage and migrating waterfowl from the viewing platform.
12:00 pm Lunch & Restoration Equipment Showcase
We’ll be serving up hot dogs from the grill by the Bunkhouse in between guided hikes. While you’re re-fueling, learn about some of the tools our Refuge crew uses in their daily restoration work.
1:30 pm Dore Seep Guided Hike
After lunch we will caravan to the Boat Launch and head out on a 2 mile guided hike along the Ilinois Nature Preserve dedicated Dore Seep trail.
3:00pm Event Concludes

Hiking along these trails may involve wet or muddy conditions, so sturdy footwear or hiking boots are recommended. Long pants, long sleeves, and a hat are also recommended. Bring your binoculars if you have them! Indoor bathroom facilities are available at the Bunkhouse parking lot, and porta potties are available at the Sandy Hollow and Boat Launch parking lots.

A map of the Dixon Waterfowl Refuge can be found here.

This event is free to attend. Join us for the whole day or just a portion - your choice! Please RSVP by email to twi@wetlands-initiative.org and include any dietary restrictions for your group.