Events

Welcome to The Nature Institute with 294 acres dedicated as an Illinois Nature Preserve. Spend the day above the bluffs overlooking Great River Rd just north of Alton, IL. Our walks take you through upland forest, hill prairies, and majestic views overlooking the Mississippi River. The trail consists of two 5ks marked with arrows and streamers. The wooded 5k takes you into the Olin Nature Preserve on trails used as a major entry point on the Underground Railroad. The second 5k takes you to the Mississippi Sanctuary lookout on the bluffs, through the Mississippi Sanctuary Trails, down to the Great River Rd. Join us for lunch after your walk at The Nature Institute.