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Register now for Maple Syrup Hikes and witness the wonder of turning sap from sugar maple trees into sweet maple syrup. Hikes are offered on Saturdays and Sundays, March 11–26, at Ryerson Woods in Riverwoods. Led by Lake County Forest Preserve nature educators, these one-hour hikes run every half-hour from noon to 2 pm and are open to all ages.

Participants hike into the woods to view the sap collection in progress and then head over to the evaporator to learn how the sap becomes syrup. Everyone on the tour gets a taste of the final product.

Ryerson Woods is one of the few places in Lake County where conditions are right for maple syrup production, and where the trees grow to a diameter and height that allows for tapping. Syrup production only happens in late winter and early spring.

Registration for Maple Syrup Hikes is required. Hikes fill fast, so register soon. Cost is $6 per person. Children under age 3 are free. Register online or call 847-968-3321. Program also available as a school or scout field trip, call 847-968-3321 for details.

Ryerson Woods is located on Riverwoods Road between Half Day Road (Route 22) and Deerfield Road, just west of the Interstate 94 Tollway.

For additional information on this or other Lake County Forest Preserve programs, view our calendar or call 847-367-6640 and request a free copy of the Horizons quarterly newsletter.

Register Now

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