BY DANI TIETZ
dani@mahometnews.com
The trails within forest preserves of Champaign County are often filled with runners, hikers and bikers throughout the day.
But at night, when the people gather inside their homes, foot traffic on the trails quiets.
Part of this is because the Champaign County Forest Preserve parks are only open during day time hours. But on January 9 and 10, Homer Lake Forest Preserve will open their gates for an annual January full moon hike from 6 to 7:30 p.m.
“These programs offer an opportunity for a new experience”. Jennifer Wick, Public Program Specialist for the Champaign County Forest Preserve, said. “Hiking in the evening is a really great experience, and there is a lot to take in. It’s just as exciting as daytime; there are different things to observe at different times.”
Wick begins the hike with a brief presentation indoors. As participants venture onto the hiking trails outdoors, she encourages them to not use artificial light so that the group can talk about how other senses will be heightened when vision by moonlight is limited.
During the family hike on January 10, Wick plans interactive activities so that children can learn more about night vision for humans and wild animals.
The adult hike on January 9 is a little longer walk where visitors will take time to look up at the moon, view constellations, and maybe even experience wildlife.
“Out here at Homer Lake, it’s just going to be darker than it is in town because we don’t have a lot of lighting throughout the park and we are also a little bit outside of town,” Wick said. “You’re just able to see more of the night sky.”
“If you live in Champaign- Urbana, you can’t see the stars very well, even on a clear night. Being out here gives them an opportunity to really get to see the stars in the sky.”
Being removed from town and traffic also offers visitors an opportunity to hear more, too.
“It’s really just a no interruption experience to listen and observe nature at night,” Wick said. “Whereas it might seem like there is nothing going on, there actually is a lot to hear and see at night.”
A $3 fee is charged for persons over the age of 2. Pre-registration is required, as there is a limited number of spaces, and can be completed by visiting ccfpd.org.
*The forecast currently calls for rain on both program dates. If rain is not in the forecast, the forest preserve will still hold the programs, but that may still mean overcast skies. You can check the Homer Lake Interpretive Center Facebook page for program updates and cancellation notices, or call the interpretive center at 217-896-2455. Those who have registered will be notified of any cancellations. If rain is in the forecast, the event will be canceled and will not be rescheduled.
