Published: March 11, 2015

Discover Calumet: The Calumet Outdoors Series Connects People to the Many Natural Areas in the Region

Laura Milkert, Conservation Ecology Manager, Keller Science Action Center

The announcement of the Pullman National Monument is drawing positive attention to the Calumet Region and The Calumet Outdoors Series 2015 provides an exciting opportunity for people to experience an eclectic variety of beautiful places first-hand. This monthly series of free guided hikes and events takes participants throughout Northwest Indiana and Southeast Chicago. A collaboration among several Calumet Stewardship Initiative (CSI) organizations, the Calumet Outdoors Series focuses on connecting people to the natural assets across the region, be they a revitalized site of a former steel mill, or a dedicated nature preserve. Building on The Field Museum's commitment to Calumet, Museum staff will lead several interpretive hikes as a part of this initiative.

All are welcome to come hike unexpected parts of Chicago Wilderness and get to know the globally rare ecology of the region.

Photo: Laura Milkert

Doug Stotz guides bird-watchers at the March 2012 Calumet Outdoors hike at Northerly Island. These hikes, like a walk along Wolf Lake in January of 2015 (below), offer a unique perspective into Calumet.

Find other ways to get involved in nature-based activities throughout Chicago Wilderness


Laura Milkert
Conservation Ecology Manager
Laura Milkert is a Conservation Ecologist and the Ecological Stewardship Manager for the Keller Science Action Center’s Chicago Region Team. She oversees the Keller Science Action Center's stewardship and habitat restoration efforts throughout the Chicago Wilderness Region, working collaboratively with partners, land owners, and community members to care for local natural areas and to enhance quality of life in urban landscapes.