Hiking 2026 - Folks On Spokes

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Horsetail Lake, Swallow Cliff
February 22, 2026

This is one of our longer hikes, approximately five miles. We begin at Horsetail Lake. While waiting for any hikers to show up, we saw an eagle across the lake perched in a tree. That was a treat and a good beginning for the morning. The trail on this hike is pretty flat so at least we don't have hills to tackle. That is until we get to the toboggan slide. Those stairs are pretty formidable. But there were no causalities; we all made it to the top without any problem. The photo was taken at the top where there is such a nice view. We then circled back to our starting point. The eagle was still there as if awaiting our return.

Bernie, Scott, Susan, Karen

February 8, 2026
Cowles Bog Hike

This hike was really amazing. After weeks of cancellations and extreme winter weather conditions, we finally caught a break. The day was beautiful. There was a light snow the night before, so the ground and trees were a bright white and glistened in the fresh snow. There was not a cloud in the sky. And that frigid cold wind was gone. In its place was a normal February light breeze and kept us refreshed as we tackled the ups and downs on this hike.

February 1, 2026
Lemont Quarries Hike

Finally! We finally were able to get out and hike! This hike was actually scheduled for January 25 but had to be changed due to weather conditions - again! Its really been a crazy hiking season when it comes to weather. We've had to make a lot of changes. But we are a pretty laid back group and those that can come out, do. There was actually sun which made the morning all the more enjoyable.
There has been renovation going on in the area, and the improvements show. The Lemont Quarries are actually part of the Forest Preserve of Cook County. It is a part of the trail system located near the Cal-Sag Trail in Lemont. The forest preserve seems to be doing the restoration. Looks good!

January 11, 2026
Miller Woods/Marquette Beach

This was a cold one! Only seven of us came out on this blustery day to hike from the Douglas Center on Lake Street in Gary to Marquette Beach. Most of the way it was ok, but once we hit the beach area conditions changed dramatically. The winds were very strong and we struggled a bit with that. However, the waves were amazing and we were able to see some very unusual formations in the sand, frozen solid. It can also be noted we saw "icy flowers" in the channel leading to the beach. These little circles formed on the grass coming up out of the water. Very unusual and quite pretty!

This hike was about 4.5 miles through woods, along the beach, with a short stretch in the residential area on the return trip.

Needless to say, we survived the hike and enjoyed lunch afterward in the area.

New Year's Day
Goodenow Grove

FOS hikers met New Year's Day at Goodenow Grove. This is a traditional hike that the club has been doing it for many years. Twelve members came out on a very cold morning to enjoy fresh air, winter scenery and friendship. The hikes continue to be very popular with a core group of hardy members. Afterward we enjoyed lunch in Crete.