Monday, January 5th you have a rare opportunity: the opportunity to experience the trails of the preserve at night, by the light of the full moon! We only host a smattering of evening events each year, and this is one you don’t want to miss!

The Nature Center will be open from 6:00-7:30 that evening. Stop in, say hello and grab a trail map. If there’s snow, you can rent snowshoes for $5 members and $8 for non-members. Then head out into the stillness of the night for some big adventure! Check out Willow Trail and you may hear some owls hooting. Great horned owls begin courting this time of year. Explore Cattail Trail and perhaps you’ll see fox tracks. We’ve recently spotted a red fox in that area. If you’re feeling extra adventurous, take a hike on the Ice Age Trail off of Columbus Street. This trail winds through a cedar stand, leading into the V-shaped meadow. The meadow is a perfect spot to star gaze and check out the moon.

Did you know that each full moon has a name? These names were given by Native American tribes to help track the seasons. The full moon in January is known as the Full Wolf Moon because on cold, snowy nights wolves could be heard howling outside Native American villages. It’s unlikely you’ll hear a wolf howl at Woodland Dunes, but you may hear coyotes howling in the distance.

The Full Moon Walk is a chance to decompress after the holidays, take a family night hike or have a big adventure with friends. Hope to see you there!