Will County forest preserve offers 7 programs to get you outside this December

Many of us feel like hibernating in winter, but some studies suggest spending time in nature can enhance health.

Winter trails can be especially picturesque and a cup of hot cocoa or coffee can taste especially good around a campire.

But be sure to follow these winter safety tips from Mayo Clinic: Limit time outdoors in cold, wet or windy weather; dress in several layers of loose, warm clothing; wear a hat that fully covers the ears; wear mittens instead of gloves; and carry emergency supplies and extra warm clothing, just in case.

With winter fun and health in mind, the Forest Preserve District offers the following seven programs:

Winter Hike and Craft: 10 a.m. to noon, Saturday, Dec. 18, Four Rivers Environmental Education Center in Channahon. After a chilly hike, warm up indoors with a cup of hot cocoa while making a special ornament or card to remember your family’s adventure. Free, all ages. Register online by Dec. 17 or call 815-722-9470.

Happy Mornings Yoga and Hike: 9 to10:30 a.m., Dec. 19, Four Rivers Environmental Education Center, Channahon, A 45-minute, indoor yoga session for all levels followed by a 45-minute hike along scenic trails. Bring a yoga mat, water and warm layers for the winter weather. Free, ages 14 or older. Register online by Dec. 18 or call 815-722-9470.

Caroling Campfire: 4:30 to 6:30 p.m., Dec. 19, Plum Creek Nature Center, Crete Township. Sing holiday songs, tell stories and play games around a winter campfire and then roast s’mores prepared over an open fire. Free, all ages. Register online by Dec. 18 or call 708-946-2216.

Senior Coffee Talk – Winter Solstice: 10 to 11:30 a.m., Dec. 21, Four Rivers Environmental Education Center, Channahon. Learn about the history of this celestial event and how it still influences people today. Ages 55 or older. Register online by Dec. 19 or call 815-722-9470.

Solstice Celebration: 6-7:30 p.m., Dec. 21, Isle a la Cache Museum, Romeoville. Enjoy a bonfire and hot cider, learn how people through the ages honored the season and hear how science explains the solstice today. Take an optional short hike around the island. Meet at the amphitheater. Free, all ages. Register online by Dec. 19 or call 815-886-1467.

Holiday Owl Prowl: 3-5 p.m. and 6-8 p.m., Dec. 26, Plum Creek Nature Center, Crete Township. Learn about the habits of owls and which owls can be found in Illinois, and then enjoy a guided hike on the trail to listen for owls. Dress for the weather. Free, ages 18 or older. Register online by Dec. 23 or call 708-946-2216.

Stress-free Sunrise Hike: 6:30-8 a.m., Dec. 29, Four Rivers Environmental Education Center, Channahon. Dress for the weather. Free, ages 12 or older. Register online by Dec. 28 or call 815-722-9470.

Register for these programs on the Forest Preserve District of Will County’s event calendar at ReconnectWithNature.org.