The First U Hiking Club kicked off in July with a glorious trek on the Sag Valley trails in the Cook County Forest Preserves. Watch the weekly email or this space for dates of future summer hikes! If you are interested in hiking, please join us. It’s fun! And we sometimes end the activity with lunch and craft beers at local restaurants.

Many hikers don’t realize that there are miles of forest trails only 30 – 45 minutes away in the south suburbs. Come and experience the beauty of the trails, hills and ravines of the Cook County Forest Preserves while getting some exercise and fresh air!  

The Hiking Club will start out small and focus on moderately difficult hikes (midwest difficult)—due to their length, uneven walking surfaces, inclines and declines on the trails and such. 

GEAR NEEDED

• HIKING BOOTS or HIKING SHOES are strongly suggested. Absent that, shoes with good tread on the bottom. 
• A HAT to shield from the sun is a must. Bring sunscreen and insect spray. (Bugs should be light or non-existent in the morning.)
• WATER BOTTLE and SNACKS such as apples, trail mix, or a protein bar in a backpack or fanny pack. Always a good idea to carry some tissue.
• A light weight shirt and shorts or long pants. You can put a long-sleeve shirt or light jacket in your pack. It’ll be in the 70s so don’t overdress!

Please call (leave a message if no answer), text or email Margie Gonwa at 73-415-4882 or margie.gonwa@gmail.comwith any questions.