The South Shore Nature Sanctuary is a little-known gem located along the south shore of Lake Michigan. The park contains 6 acres of dunes, wetlands, woodlands and prairies. Visitors can explore this excellent range of ecosystem types and see the wide array of birds it supports.

Walk attendees are also encouraged to stick around and participate in the Sanctuary's volunteer stewardship day which runs from 10am-12pm. Activities will likely include removal of garlic mustard, sign maintenance, and trash pickup. Tools and gloves will be provided but you are welcome to bring your own gloves, trash grabbers, and diggers if you have them.

Meeting Spot: The Sanctuary is located in South Shore, Chicago, just next to the South Shore Beach/behind the South Shore Cultural Center. Paid public parking is available in two parking lots at the Cultural Center, which are an easy walk to the main entrance. There are also bus and Metra stops within a block as well as bike parking on the beach walkway. We'll plan to meet in the parking lot at this pin and walk into the sanctuary together.

Photo: Sora by Margaret Gompper