Photos

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This year we’ve hosted more educational field trips than ever before! Classes of all ages joined us from March through November to learn about the ecology, history, and ongoing transformation of urban waterways. Sharing our nerdy river facts wi
What happens to our gardens in the winter? Using entirely native species means that our wetland ecosystems are well equipped to handle long midwestern winters. While the foliage will become brown and crispy, energy is stored in seeds and extensive ro
Every fall, hundreds of thousands of birds fly through Chicago as part of their seasonal migration. Along with passers-by like Sandhill Cranes, we’ll also be saying goodbye to some of the birds who were born and raised in our city. Black-Crowne
Submissions for our 📸2024 Photo Contest📸 are officially open!!! Submit your best photos between now and December 1st for a chance at fame, glory, and cool prize! More details and submission form in the link in our bio. Photo: Kaitlyn Tran (Best o
Howl-Owen was a success - thank you to all who participated! There was some tough competition this year, and we loved seeing both new and old furry faces on the Wild Mile. The full photo album is on our website! First Place: the Chicago Dog (and ac
Things are getting seedy on the Wild Mile! As the weather gets cooler, our mature wetland plants are spreading their seeds through wind, water, and animal dispersal. Come learn more about native seeds at our Howl-Owen event on October 26th! #wildmi
October events are live! Our fall programming includes year-round favorites like s’mores nights and socials, plus plenty of partner events and seasonal one-offs like Howl-oween! Visit our website (link in bio) to learn more and RSVP. #wildmile
Our wildlife cameras sometimes capture our river friends in… interesting circumstances. To get exclusive access to all our best river content, sign up to make a recurring monthly donation of any amount, and we’ll send you our monthly hig
It’s the home stretch of our summer season! As we enter the last week of our weekly summer programs, we’re so grateful for all the wonderful community partners and participants that have made these events possible. Don’t miss our la
Though springtime brings the heaviest influx of baby wildlife, late summer also features some distinct characters! Barely-fledged swallows receive food from their mothers, awkward adolescent herons scout out hunting grounds, and fearless baby beavers
 

Howl-Oween 2024

A seasonal canine extravaganza featuring a dog costume contest!

 

2nd Annual Wild Mile Block Party

We celebrated the progress of the Wild Mile with 850 of our closest friends, neighbors, and Chicago community members.

 

Best of 2023 Photo Contest Submissions

We asked our community for photos that speak to the beauty and personal experiences of our parks, spanning four different categories. We are grateful for all who shared their moments of color, wonder, and joy on the Chicago River.