Join us as we hike and explore the ravines which define the interior of Deer Grove West!

The hike will follow the stream which created, and still shape the ravine today. Deer Grove Lake and the Deer Grove Lake Dam will also be on the hike’s route. Architectural remnants from the work done by the Civilian Conservation Corp in the 1930’s, along the hikes route will also be pointed out.

Difficulty Level: This is a hike for those wishing to experience the adventure of getting off the beaten path. The primary surfaces for the hike are singletrack dirt trails adjacent to the streams within Deer Grove West. The single track trails have obstacles to be navigated such as: downed trees, exposed roots, rain run-offs, stream crossings and short but steep up and downs. The trail surface and obstacles can be challenging.

If due to weather conditions the single track trails within the ravine are unusable, we will still hike using crushed gravel trails within Deer Grove West. The crushed gravel trails will not display the ravines and the hike would then become a walk and talk

Duration:The hike will be 2 hours in duration, give or take, and the distance hiked will be approximately 4 miles.

Parking / Meeting location:

We will meet by the picnic shelter at Grove 4 within Deer Grove West. The entrance road is on the west side of Quentin Rd, north of DundeeRoad and south of Lake Cook Road. The entrance road is directly across from the Camp Reinberg campground on the east side of Quentin Rd.Once within the Preserve follow the signs to Grove 4.

What to wear / bring:Water is not available at the Preserve. Be sure to bring your own water and enough to last the duration of the hike. Long pants, notshorts, should be worn. Hiking boots offering some water protection and sturdy enough for the obstacles detailed above are recommended. Expect your boots or shoes to get dirty, possibly muddy.Optional equipment: trekking poles, rucksack with personal equipment, insect repellant

Meet your volunteer guide: Tom is retired after a 30 plus year career in Information Technology. He’s an outdoor enthusiast who enjoys exploring the woods through day hikes, snowshoeing, trail running and alpine skiing. Tom especially enjoys and appreciates the beauty of each season within the preserves.

This event is free, but please register to secure your spot. If you have any questions about this walk or the Trailblazers Walking Series, contact Sydney Armstead, Engagement Program Manager, at [email protected].