Nature Calls ... Virtual Cache
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Remember ... Take only photos and leave only footprints.
With 135 acres of wetlands, woodlands, and restored prairie, this facility is a true gem amid the congestion and gridlock of suburbia. Quite literally on the beaten path, it is a tranquil oasis for walkers and nature lovers of all ages. In addition, an 1880’s farm site -- complete with crops, period-appropriate buildings, and farm animals -- occupies a portion of the property.
This virtual is a multi-part exercise intended to expose visitors to many of the highlights of this preserved natural area. Depending on each cacher’s preferences, some individuals will be disappointed -- while others will be ecstatic -- that there is absolutely no bushwhacking involved! All the paths, over 3 miles of them, are either paved or wood chipped. Bug repellant is recommended during the warmer months.
Before logging your visit, please email us with your answers to at least three of the following five points:
1. What words are on the first line of the sign at N42º01.412 W088º03.610?*
2. Describe an interesting feature on the roof of the structure at N42º01.488 W088º03.536.
3. According to the marker at N42º01.503 W088º03.303, during what years did this area serve as the Merkle homestead?
4. What is the name of this particular area, as indicated by the signage at N42º01.600 W088º03.337?
5. Describe the roof on the building at N42º01.620 W088º03.080.
Please respect the policies of this property -- stay on marked trails and paths; do not feed the wildlife and farm animals; do not collect any plant specimens. Further, this site does not permit pets, picnicking, biking, rollerblading, and cross country skiing.
Grounds are open seven days a week, from 8AM to 8PM April 1 through October 31 and from 8AM to 5PM November 1 through March 31. Main visitor center hours: 9AM to 5PM daily (except Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Years Day). Although the farm buildings are open seasonally, visitors may walk through that portion of the site any time the grounds are open. There is ample parking (two lots ... one at each end of the property) and, best of all, the site is open to the public free of charge.
Enjoy your outing to Nature Calls!
* March 2006: With construction of new parking lot and de-construction of our original sign, this is a new set of co-ords for new signage near the property entrance.
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Treasures
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