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A Wonderful, 'Wet' Day of Hiking
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The Marquette Chapter Ice Age Trail hikes on National Trails Day were a great success in spite of the morning downpour and unpredictable mid day showers.
Three hikes took place on June 2 each lasting about 1-1 ý hrs.
The first hike in the morning was led by Charlie Church and Cathy Franks. Both leaders live near the Hill and gave an informative historic perspective to the hike talking about the Hill as John Muir's boyhood haunt, pointing out Indian markings, identifying rare plants and describing how the land came to be a state natural area.
The second hike offered a rare opportunity to hike in the Fox River Wildlife Refuge with Sadie Odell. Sadie works for the US Fish and Wildlife Service at the Refuge. She provided insight into the restoration efforts currently taking place, the future plans for the Refuge, and the unique plant communities that exist on the Refuge.
The third hike was on the John Muir IAT segment and was led by Laurel and Alan Bennet, wildlife biologists from the area. Hikers learned to identify ferns, types of oak trees, and specific prairie plants at the prairie restoration site.
John Muir Park offered a wonderful picnic site and time for good conversation as hikers shared lunch when the hiking was done. Frank Petras capped off his day of hiking by putting his canoe in the water and paddling Ennis Lake.
A thank you to the excellent hike leaders who volunteered their time and energy.
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