Join us for a pop-up bird walk this Friday at Half Day Forest Preserve!

Late May is one of the most exciting times of year to explore Lake County’s forests and wetlands as colorful warblers, flycatchers, vireos, thrushes, and other migratory birds move through the region. Half Day Forest Preserve offers beautiful woodland trails, scenic wetlands, and excellent opportunities to experience spring migration at its peak.

Birders of all experience levels are welcome, from longtime enthusiasts to those just beginning to explore the world of birds and nature. Join fellow nature enthusiasts for a relaxing morning outdoors discovering the incredible diversity of birds that call Lake County home during migration season.

Date:  Friday, May 22, 2026

Time:  7:30 AM - 10:30 AM
Activity Level:  Moderate, Walk ~4 miles (mostly crushed-gravel paths)

Trip Leader:   Matt Tobin   (847) 951-1483

Location:   Half Day Forest Preserve

                    S Milwaukee Ave

                    Vernon Hills, IL 60061

Registration form can be found here.

We will meet in the Shelter C parking lot, pinned in Google Maps below:

Google Maps:  Half Day Forest Preserve - Shelter C Parking Lot

Bring binoculars (if available).  We will have a few loaner pairs if you need to borrow one for the walk.

Please dress accordingly for the weather conditions and wear appropriate footwear for walking ~4 miles on mostly crushed-gravel trails. Sunscreen, insect repellent, drinking water, and a hat are all good items to bring along.

Feel free to leave the walk at any time. We may extend the overall duration of the walk beyond the listed time for anyone who would like to continue a bit longer.

In case of inclement weather, the trip leader will notify all participants via email.