Winter Walk At Emily Oaks Nature Center in Skokie, Illinois

 

The Chicago area is blessed with intriguing greenspaces threaded throughout. I have visited nearly a hundred of them during my years here and each is quite unique. Skokie's Emily Oaks Nature Center represents one of these beautiful nature oases featuring hiking trails, a pond, a playground, and a nature center. On a cold winter day, we needed a little nature adventure and Emily Oaks Nature Center definitely fulfilled our desire for the day.

A paved trail leads through the woodlands of Emily Oaks Nature Center.

We noted nature activity immediately upon arrival at Emily Oaks. Resident squirrels furiously looked for stored nuts. Of interesting note, Emily Oaks is home to flying squirrels which may be seen in early evening if you happen to be there during an event.

Canada geese repose on a downed tree in the pond of Emily Oaks Nature Center.

Trails at Emily Oaks are both natural and paved. I recommend making sure that you spindle off of the main paved trail to the natural trails, particularly by the pond. A variety of footpaths take you to vantage points around the pond which will give you opportunities to view wildlife. Canada geese were entirely enjoying the day during our visit. We potted quite a few resting as well as some swimming. We also spied a few mallard ducks.

The 2-acre pond at Emily Oaks Nature Center is full of life and discoveries.

We were quite surprised by all of the natural treasures held by Emily Oaks. We savored the tranquility of the preserve. Had the weather been a little warmer, we would have elongated our stay by winding around the trails and additional time.

A natural trail winds through rusty brown leaves
 around the pond at Emily Oaks Nature Center.

Emily Oaks Nature Center hosts numerous nature events and camps throughout the year. Programs invite children and adults alike to appreciate and learn about nature. The playground is a nice size, so great for little ones. When my daughter was younger, we often paired a hike with a visit to a sizeable playground. Emily Oaks is quite a splendid spot to enjoy some time in nature whether it be for a walk, picnic, or nature learning event.