Join us for a guided Trailblazer Walk along the Lost Beach Trail and through the beautiful surroundings of Sand Ridge Nature Center. This experience combines a leisurely nature walk with storytelling, offering participants the opportunity to connect with local landscapes, wildlife, and the region’s history. Along the way, we’ll pause to observe native plants and habitats while sharing stories about Chicago’s natural areas and the people who have helped protect them.

Difficulty Level: This is an easy-to-moderate walk suitable for most ages and fitness levels. The pace will be relaxed, with frequent stops for observation and discussion. Participants can expect approximately 1.5–2 hours of walking on a mix of natural surface trails, including sandy sections, uneven terrain, and occasional tree roots.

Parking & Meeting Location: Meet your volunteer guide at the main entrance of Sand Ridge Nature Center. Free parking is available in the nature center parking lot. Please arrive 10 minutes early to check in and prepare for the walk.

Meet Your Volunteer Guide: Tiara is a Chicago-based storyteller, photographer, and environmental educator with a background in media studies and conservation. Through her work with community organizations and environmental programs, she combines storytelling and nature education to help people build deeper connections with the landscapes around them. Tiara enjoys exploring local forest preserves, documenting community stories, and encouraging others to discover the natural beauty found throughout the Chicago region.

What to Bring & Wear: Comfortable clothing suitable for summer weather, closed-toe walking shoes or hiking shoes, water bottle, sunscreen, insect repellent, hat and sunglasses, a phone/camera or binoculars (optional but recommended).

We look forward to walking, learning, and sharing stories together in nature.

This event is free, but please register to secure your spot.