• This article was written by Valerie Blaine, nature programs manager for the Forest Preserve District of Kane County. You can reach her at blainevalerie@kaneforest.com.

Got cabin fever? Need to get the kids out of the house? Eager to walk off the excess holiday calories? The Forest Preserve District of Kane County has just the thing for you: nature hikes in the forest preserves and a nature center full of activities for all ages.

Wild turkey and fox tracks in the snow at a Kane County Forest Preserve.

You can kick start your New Year’s resolutions on our annual New Year’s Morning Hike at LeRoy Oakes Forest Preserve. Beginning at 9 a.m. Jan. 1, Naturalist Valerie Blaine will lead an invigorating walk on the trails. Along the way you’ll look for native flora and fauna, and learn some ways to identify animals and plants. The walk last about an hour. The walk begins and ends at Creek Bend Nature Center, where coffee and cocoa will be served. There is no charge for this family-friendly hike.

You’re welcome to visit Creek Bend Nature Center at any time during our open hours. Here, you’ll find interactive exhibits and activities for all ages. This week, Creek Bend is open from 10 a.m. to noon Thursday, Dec. 31, and noon to 4 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, Jan. 2-3.

For information, please call 630-444-3190 or email programs@kaneforest.com.

Finish 2015 and bring in the new year with a salubrious dose of nature! It’s a sure-fire cure for cabin fever.

About the Forest Preserve District of Kane County

The Forest Preserve District of Kane County acquires, holds and maintains land to preserve natural and historic resources, habitats, flora and fauna. The district restores, restocks, protects and preserves open space for the education, recreation and pleasure of Kane County citizens. For more information, visit the district’s website or find them on social media via Facebook, Twitter or Instagram. Also, sign up for the quarterly TreeLine Newsletter.