Wednesday, February 10, 2016
Special to suffredin.org
by Cook County Forest Preserves

Celebrate Valentine’s Day with the Forest Preserves of Cook County

Connect with loved ones while spending time outdoors

While many people may be planning traditional Valentine’s Day celebrations, the Forest Preserves of Cook County invites residents and visitors to celebrate the holiday by spending quality time with loved ones outdoors.

The Forest Preserves encompasses nearly 70,000 acres of land, and includes various habitats such as forest woodlands, wetlands, prairie and savanna. Amenities within the Forest Preserves include 300 miles of marked trails for hiking, biking, horseback riding and cross-country skiing; five campgrounds; six nature centers; 22 dedicated Illinois nature preserves; and more.

“The Forest Preserves are a great place to make memories with family and friends. With miles of beautiful scenic trails, educational nature centers, campgrounds and more, visitors can plan a unique Valentine’s Day celebration by exploring nature close to home,” said Arnold Randall, General Superintendent of the Forest Preserves.

Below is a list of upcoming Valentine’s Day-themed events. For more ideas and information on ways to enjoy time outdoors in the Forest Preserves of Cook County, visit the Forest Preserves’ online events page at fpdcc.com/events. Additionally, visitors can find information on making the most of Valentine’s Day weekend by booking a cabin at one of the Forest Preserves’ new campgrounds by visiting fpdcc.com/camping.

·Love is in the Air

Friday, Feb. 12 • 7 p.m.

Crabtree Nature Center, 3 Stover Rd., Barrington Hills

Romance is in the air for all kinds of animals. Learn more, then go for a night hike on snowshoes (conditions permitting) and enjoy cocoa by the fire. Adults only.

·Sweetheart Night Hike

Saturday, Feb. 13 • 6:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.

Little Red Schoolhouse Nature Center, 9800 Willow Springs Rd., Willow Springs

Sweethearts are invited to enjoy the nature center at their leisure. Hike a short trail, roast marshmallows, then warm up inside with refreshments. Ages 21 and up. Limit 40. $10 per couple. Register by 2/11 by calling 708-839-6897.

·Warm Hearts Hike

Sunday, Feb. 14 • 1 p.m.

Trailside Museum of Natural History, 738 Thatcher Ave., River Forest

Join us for a winter nature walk, as we discuss love in the animal world! Adult program; register by 2/12 by calling 708-366-6530.

·Animal Attraction

Sunday, Feb. 14 • 1 p.m.

Crabtree Nature Center, 3 Stover Rd., Barrington Hills

It may look and feel like winter, but some animal babies are already here or will soon be arriving. Learn how animals choose mates and raise their young in this family-friendly program.

If you want to show nature some love while spending time outdoors, consider volunteering with the Forest Preserves. Interested volunteers can search for volunteer opportunities based on location, role, date or FPCC partner organization, or by typing in keywords. Learn more about volunteering by visiting fpcc.com/volunteer.

If you’re still looking for the perfect gift, consider honoring your Valentine with a tribute gift to their favorite forest preserve or nature center through the Forest Preserve Foundation’s I Love My Preserve program. To learn more about I Love My Preserve, visit http://bit.ly/20kksIl.