Rare species, rare communities and exceptional natural areas combine to make this a very special preserve. More than half of the land is so ecologically valuable that it is dedicated as an Illinois Nature Preserve and benefits from special protection rules.
The preserve's rich natural and cultural history is recognized by its dual designation as an Illinois Nature Preserve (a selection saved for ecologically high-quality land) and as a Historic District by the National Register of Historic Places.
Due to its nature preserve designation, bicycles, snowmobiles, dogs, horses and other pets are not allowed at this preserve.
Trails
Over 6.5 miles of scenic trails wind through woods to the Des Plaines River. Trails here are open for hiking and, when snow is at least 4 inches deep, cross-country skiing.
Trails lead past historic buildings, next to the Des Plaines River and into a woodland dense enough to block out most human-made noises. Some visitors have even said that they feel transported far from Lake County as they follow the trails.
Educational Opportunities
A variety of public programs and field trips for school and scout groups are offered here throughout the year. Ryerson also hosts popular annual events like Maple Syrup Hikes and Halloween Hikes. Stop in at the Welcome Center for a calendar of events and programs, or subscribe to Horizons, our free quarterly magazine. You can also read it online.
Explore Backpacks
Borrow our nature themed backpacks filled with activities for families with children up to 10 years old to help you learn as you explore. The packs are free to use while in the preserve and can be checked out at the Welcome Center. A driver's license is held as deposit. Choose from four themes: plants, farm, birds and nature.
Farm
At the small farm area, you may spot sheep, goats and chickens. Be sure to also look for butterflies that visit the rain gardens.
Saying Goodbye to Our Education Red-Tailed Hawk
Our resident education red-tailed hawk passed away on May 7, 2021. She was one of the oldest red-tailed hawks on record and a true education ambassador.
She lived her life at Ryerson Conservation Area in Riverwoods and inspired more than 500,000 visitors. This is a difficult loss for the education staff who worked with her, for our volunteers, and for our visitors. Her legacy will live forever in the more than half a million people she inspired.
Read more about her in an interactive story map.
Ryerson Master Plan in Progress
As stewards of healthy landscape and proponents of climate resiliency, the Lake County Forest Preserves Board approved construction contracts for a new net-zero education center at the Edward L. Ryerson Conservation Area. Construction is scheduled to begin in early summer 2022 with an estimated summer 2023 public opening.
A net-zero building produces enough renewable energy to meet its own annual energy consumption requirements, reducing the use of nonrenewable energy. The building uses cost-effective measures to reduce energy usage. Featured components and building materials chosen to meet net-zero energy building requirements include:
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A 23.8kW system of rooftop solar panels, a similar size to what is found on a home or small business
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HVAC systems and mechanical equipment with the highest efficiency ratings
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Increased insulation values in the walls and roof
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Strategic placement of high-performing windows to help regulate temperature
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LED lighting throughout the building
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Occupancy sensors in rooms and daylight sensors in perimeter spaces
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EPA Indoor Air Plus requirements for paint and materials
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Bird-friendly glass windows to help reduce bird strikes
“We want to raise the bar and set the example when it comes to green buildings and environmental sustainability. Our goal is that this new building will become a viable model of long-lasting energy-efficient design,” said Alex Ty Kovach, executive director of the Lake County Forest Preserves.
Ryerson Woods has been a center of the Forest Preserves environmental education and programming since it was acquired in 1972. Programs offered here are based on nature and the environment and are designed for all ages. When the new facility is complete, it will replace aging classroom cabins that currently host thousands of school children each year and become the first public building in Lake County to gain net-zero certification through the passive house institute.
This project is made possible by a grant from Illinois Clean Energy Community Foundation, North Shore Gas, Medline Foundation, private donations and the support of Lake County residents.
Questions or Comments? Contact Director of Planning and Land Preservation Randy Seebach at 847-968-3262 or via email: Ryerson@LCFPD.org.