OTTAWA – Two free guided hikes will be offered in Ottawa on Sunday, Nov. 17 to celebrate National Hike Day.

Each hike focuses on a theme that makes Ottawa’s parks unique: learn about ecology and preservation at Dayton Bluffs; hear fascinating and experience some of the largest pieces of landscape art in the country at Buffalo Rock State Park. These hikes are an excellent way to get one last day out on the trails before winter sets in. If you participate in any of the two hikes you will receive a free collectible button (one button per participant, while supplies last).

This event is free and open to all ages, but you must RSVP to participate in these hikes. To reserve a space for any hike, or both, visit www.pickusottawail.com or call (815) 434-2737.

You must provide your own transportation to any of these locations. Please make sure to bring seasonally appropriate hiking clothing and footwear. This event is open to hikers of all experience levels, but bear in mind you will be hiking for over an hour on various grades and elevations.

Hike Schedule:

The Dayton Bluffs Hike will be held from 10-11:30 a.m.

From Indigenous American burial mounds, natural cascades, and beautiful forest scenery, seasoned Dayton Bluffs expert David Manigold will take you on a guided morning hike of Ottawa’s newest park. The park is located at 2997 IL-71, Ottawa (Just to the north of Hanks Farm Restaurant).

The tour will depart from telegraph pole west of the parking lot at 10 a.m.

Next, nestled between the serene prairie trails and magnificent river views at Buffalo Rock State Park are giant earthen sculptures. Join guide Ryan Searl as he recounts the history of this internationally renowned art installation, Effigy Tumuli Mounds, and gives you the storied history of Buffalo Rock State Park. The park is located at 1300 N 27th Rd, Ottawa. The tour will depart from the buffalo enclosure at 2 p.m. for this one-hour hike.