Godfrey, IL: St. Louis Chapter, Olin Nature Preserve Hike

EVENT DESCRIPTION
Metro East pilgrims Michele Johnson and Lindsey Lester-Brutscher will lead us on a trail hike at the Olin Nature Preserve.

Following the hike, we will gather at Hickory Grove Restaurant (201 E Center Dr, Alton) for continued pilgrim conversation and fellowship.

ADVANCE REGISTRATION REQUIRED:
https://forms.gle/8ZNKW3Dv7dmGLgfE7
Due to the Nature Preserve’s registration requirements for groups of 20+ people, advance registration is required via this form. If you register and later determine that you are unable to attend, please update your registration accordingly.

WHAT TO BRING
Your pilgrim spirit
Plenty of drinking water
Trekking poles
Sunscreen
Bug spray

ABOUT OLIN NATURE PRESERVE
Once owned by John M. Olin, this 294-acre preserve is a recognized Illinois Nature Preserve dedicated to the preservation of native flora and fauna. For nearly 40 years, volunteers and staff have actively maintained its natural beauty by removing invasive plants, and replanting native species of tallgrass prairie, oak and hickory trees, and other native Illinois vegetation. The Olin Nature Preserve overlooks the Mississippi River atop steep limestone bluffs. Unique geological features of karst topography including sinkholes, ravines, and bedrock outcrops can be found on the preserve. Visitors will also discover small streams, a waterfall, upland forest, and hill prairies.

Researchers have identified more than 300 native plant species. More than 150 species of nesting and migratory birds, including the Bald Eagle, call the preserve home. It is also habitat to the Eastern Timber Rattlesnake. Olin’s presence is still felt on the property at his former skeet range where the original trap houses and shooting stations still exist. Sitting 150 feet above the river valley, the site offers visitors a spectacular view of the Mississippi River Valley.

Learn more:
https://www.thenatureinstitute.org/olin-nature-preserve/