Along Chicago's south shore sits an unnamed gem of a park, numbered 566. Now primarily covered in grasses, the site was once a large industrial complex where remnants of the steel industry make up the landscape. Many species of birds thrive year-round at Park 566, and many more stop through on their migration routes along the lake. On this walk, you may see various species of waterfowl, raptor, sparrows, Eastern meadowlarks, and perhaps an early shorebird arrival. Beginner birders are welcome!

*Registration is REQUIRED and limited to 12 participants*

Please dress for the weather in layers and wear sturdy footwear suitable for hiking. It is a good idea to wear long pants with long socks to avoid ticks. Clothing sprayed with DEET bug repellant or Permethrin will help repel ticks as well. Please bring water to stay hydrated!

Parking/meeting location: Free parking is available just north of Lake Shore Drive on Farragut Drive, opposite the bus turnaround.

*Meeting location may be confusing if this is your first time to Park 566. Please refer to the following pin: https://maps.app.goo.gl/pEhyBHbbvUV7jFFu6

'Accessibility: The group will walk approximately 2 miles of unpaved and paved trails. The grade is mostly flat and there are no benches or rest areas along the path.There are some large rocks that may serve this purpose if needed. The park can be noisy at times of high wind, but is generally distant from traffic noise and does not experience high crowd volume. Birders may take breaks, use sensory aids and AAC, and stim as they need and want throughout the walk. Note there are no restrooms on site at the park.

Trip leaders: Katharine Spencer & Brooke Wetmore

Photo credit: Dorian Anderson (Merlin)