OAKtober Hike 2026

October is Oak Awareness Month in Illinois, otherwise known as OAKtober!

Oaks have played an important part in the history of Illinois. The state tree is the White Oak. Long living oak trees provide food and shelter for birds, mammals, and insects. Humans   depend on the shade of oak trees to cool the air and their homes, helping reduce energy use and costs. Oaks store more carbon dioxide than other tree species, delivering clean air.

Starting at 1:30 p.m. NLI staff will lead a guided walking tour through the rolling hills of the restored and remnant prairies and the oak woodlands at Burr Oak Valley Nature Preserve. Learn about the restoration process in the prairie and woodlands, hear about why the remnant dolomite prairie is so special, and find out why oak trees and their ecosystem are so significant. Dress for the weather, wear sturdy closed toe shoes. Bring a hiking stick.

Location and Parking

Burr Oak Valley Nature Preserve’s entrance is a across the street from Cross & Crown Lutheran Church, 7404 Elevator Rd., Roscoe, IL 61073. There is limited parking on site and parking is available at the church.

Cost

$5 each or $10 per family. FREE for NLI members.

Registration requested.

For more information and to register call 815/964-6666 or fill out the registration form below.