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Frequently Asked QuestionsThe trails are closed to the public.The trails will reopen April 1st.
Home2025-12-17T09:23:57-06:00

The Nature Institute trails are closed for hiking for the winter season. The trails will reopen on April 1, 2026. Check out our calendar of events for upcoming programs.

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The Nature Institute (TNI) is a non-profit land conservation and environmental education organization based in Godfrey, IL. Since its founding in 1980, The Nature Institute’s board and staff have worked to foster an awareness and appreciation of the natural world through education, restoration, and preservation.

Newsletters

UPCOMING EVENTS

Dec 2025

Yearly Trail Closure

Yearly Trail Closure

Monday December 15 - Tuesday March 31    
All Day
The Nature Institute's trails take a yearly hiatus from December 15-April 1. This means the trails are not available for regular hiking. However, The Nature [...]

Feb 2026

03 Feb

Critters and Crypts: Session 1

Tuesday February 03    
4:00 pm - 6:00 pm
This new program is offered exclusively to 6th – 9th grade students! Critters & Crypts is our weekly Dungeons & Dragons group. Journey on quests [...]
05 Feb

Naturally Curious Book Club: Coyote America

Thursday February 05    
10:00 am - 11:30 am
Join us for a book club discussion this winter. We will meet at the Mississippi Sanctuary Office and enjoy an amazing view of the Mississippi.
Coffee and Conservation: Eagle Watching at the Mississippi Sanctuary

Coffee and Conservation: Eagle Watching at the Mississippi Sanctuary

Saturday February 07    
9:00 am - 12:00 pm
Join us at The Nature Institute on February 7, 2026, from 9 AM to 1 PM for a delightful day of eagle watching in a [...]
Painting with the Prairie

Painting with the Prairie

Monday February 09    
6:00 pm - 7:30 pm
In this hands-on workshop, participants explore the science and story of Illinois’ ancient landscapes through art. Using watercolor paints made from glacial sediments—the foundations of the [...]

New Registration System, Better Experience for You

The Nature Institute has switched all registration to Amilia SmartRec. Please check out this information page to learn more about setting up your account and registering for programs.

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