Join the Friends of Hackmatack National Wildlife Refuge, McHenry County Conservation District, Openlands, and U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service for a behind-the-scenes look at how partners are restoring and connecting the landscapes around Hackmatack National Wildlife Refuge.

Go beyond individual sites to discover how conservation partners work across boundaries, combine resources, and engage communities to make large-scale restoration possible.

Along the way, experience beautiful natural areas, scenic overlooks, and important habitat corridors connected to Hackmatack National Wildlife Refuge.

The tour begins and ends at the LEED® Gold-certified Lost Valley Visitor Center at Glacial Park, managed by the McHenry County Conservation District.

Tour Schedule:

9:30 AM Meet at the Lost Valley Visitor Center in Ringwood for check-in

10:00 AM Overview of Hackmatack National Wildlife Refuge in the Savanna Room at Lost Valley Visitors Center

10:30 Load buses

Stops include:

2:30 PM Return to Lost Valley Visitor Center

5:00 PM Optional: Join fellow attendees from all of today's field trips at a networking/social gathering at Bills Pizza and Pub North which is a short drive from the campus.