We took a stroll through the woods with a naturalist and learned we could tell directions by the growth of a tree. As if on cue at a theme-park arena, an endangered red-shouldered hawk flew overhead as we walked from the woods to the barn area.

Educational lectures, games and programs are held in the little cabins preserved from the time when Daniel Wright, the area's first European settler in 1834, built his home here. Near the oldest remaining barn in Lake County, located on the adjacent farm built by Capt. Wright's offspring in 1848, children are delighted to see pigs, chickens, cows, goats, sheep and turkeys in a true farm environment. (The oak and hickory barn is currently being restored and is not open for visitor tours inside.)

For those little ones and their parents who never want to leave, there are summer and specialty camps available to extend their educational experience. Additionally, room rentals are available in the Historic Greek Revival house built by the Ryerson's which serves as the visitor center for the reserve. Many a happy camper has celebrated his birthday here.

But Ryerson Woods is not just for kids. Six miles of flat trails wind through the old oak and sugar maple forests and are well-traveled by people of all ages either at leisure or with the accompaniment of a naturalist guide. Crushed stone paths are wheelchair accessible and some paths are set-up for the sight-impaired. Tapes, detailing the forest wonders, are also available for use. When the snow is four inches deep, cross-country skiing on the trails and routes that follow the Des Plaines river is heartily encouraged.

Near the entrance to the visitors center is the beloved butterfly garden. Planted to attract the gentle creatures during their migrations and otherwise, they provide a sheltered stop for people, too. A recent Smith Symposium, an annual spring gathering of naturalists and nature lovers in partnership with the Field Museum, was hosting Dr. Lincoln Brower, a Distinguished Service Professor of Zoology who has studied the migration of the monarch extensively.

Though a proud part of the Forest Preserve district, the Friends of Ryerson Woods, a busy, devoted and passionately supportive group, manages much of the fund-raising, programming and project work of this natural gem. There is no cost to enjoy the wonders of nature that have been ensured by the generous donations of the Ryerson's and their friends and subsequently by the huge cadre of volunteers who lead tours, patrol the paths and help in restoration projects.