Edward L. Ryerson Conservation Area, Nature reserve in Riverwoods, Illinois.
Edward L. Ryerson Conservation Area is a nature preserve containing 565 acres of woodlands, wetlands, and grasslands alongside the Des Plaines River. The property features more than 10 miles of marked trails that allow visitors to explore the different habitat types throughout the seasons.
The land was originally owned by Captain Daniel Wright in the 1800s and later became Brushwood Farm, a family estate in the 1920s. Its conversion to a conservation area preserved the landscape and its natural character for future generations.
The Welcome Center hosts educational programs and seasonal activities like Maple Syrup Hikes and Halloween-themed tours that draw visitors throughout the year.
The property is open daily from early morning until sunset, allowing visitors flexible access throughout the day. The Welcome Center operates on select days and provides orientation and information about available trails and seasonal programs.
The Welcome Center features an underground water storage system that collects rainwater for fire protection and facility maintenance. This sustainable approach demonstrates how the preserve integrates environmental practices into its daily operations.
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