Roaming Naturalists is a monthly hike designed for adults that want to learn more about the natural world. Topics will range from birds to plants to insects and beyond. While each hike will have a topic of focus, we will allow the interest of the group and the surprises that nature throws at us to determine what we learn on our hike.

Hike will start at 9am. Meet your guide at the trail head parking lot.

Hikes will range from 1-2 miles (rarely 3 miles) and easy to moderate terrain. These hikes will occur rain or shine. In the event of icy conditions, or excessive snow, the hike may be canceled. The Nature Institute closes for the weather when Alton Public Schools close.

Roaming Naturalist Hikes are free to attend. Suggested Donation: $5

• November is the height of Deer Rut. Let’s head out on a hike to see if we can find these charismatic creatures of the forest.
  • November 2 – Searching for Deer
  • November 21 – Searching for Deer
• In December, The Nature Institute closes the trails. This is so creatures can enjoy nature’s bounty. We will search for the food sources animals are relying on this winter.
  • December 7 – Nature’s Winter Bounty
  • December 19 – Nature’s Winter Bounty
• January is the beginning of mating season for our raptors of the night. Come out to see if we can hear some Great Horned Owls setting up home and telling everyone to keep out.
  • January 4 – Territory Disputes
  • January 16 – Territory Disputes
• Hopefully we have some snow in February or at least mud to find tracks in. Let’s see what animals are around during the coldest months of the year.
  • February 1 – Tracks in the Snow
  • February 20 – Tracks in the Snow

Pre-registration is preferred, but not required. All ages are welcome.