The Chicago Park District Southeast Side offers countless opportunities to get in touch with nature through ecological recreation, or “eco-rec.” Eco-Rec activities range from heart-pumping adventures like rock climbing and mountain biking to more passive activities like fishing, birding, or trail walks.
-Big Marsh Park hosts a variety of cycle-based features including BMX jump lines, single-track trails, and a world-class pump track. Mulch and multi-use trails across our Southeast Side parks are also available for the whole family to get out and explore!
Climbing
-Built on the historic ore walls of a former steel mill, the 30-foot outdoor climbing wall offers a unique opportunity for climbing and bouldering with spectacular 360-degree views of the city and shoreline. On your way up, keep an eye out for our resident population of gray tree frogs that sometimes hide in the hand holds!
-The wall is suitable for all experience levels, with climbing grades ranging from 5.2 to 5.7, and is free to use with your own equipment. The Chicago Park District also offers a variety of climbing programs for those interested in learning the ropes. The climbing wall is open from dawn to dusk, where climbers with their own equipment may climb at their own risk.
–Community Climb Saturdays, from 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM
-May 18 -August 17
-June 15 -September 21
-July 20 -October 5
–Become a Community Climb Sponsor
-Sponsor a community climb this summer! This is the perfect outreach opportunity for local businesses or organizations to host a fun and exciting event that supports local families. Sponsors are invited to table during the climbing event.
Camping
-Big Marsh camping is a great way for organizations to enjoy nature in the city and spend a night under the stars. With the guidance of on-site staff, enjoy an evening of guided nature hikes, storytelling, and—of course—a bonfire!
-Facilitated camping at Big Marsh Park is available for groups and organizations on a limited basis.
Bird Watching
-Big Marsh Park might just be the best “hidden gem” in Chicago when it comes to discovering birds and other wildlife.
-The Calumet Region is arguably one of the most exciting places to bird-watch in the United States. Its various habitats—marshland, prairie, and savanna—provide an excellent source of food, nesting sites, and resting points for a wide variety of migratory and resident shorebirds, waterfowl, songbirds, and raptors.
-New to birding? Stop by the FCEC at Big Marsh Park to learn more about local birds or sign up for a bird walk with one of our naturalists. Learn about upcoming bird walks with the Chicago Bird Alliance, Chicago Ornithological Society, or Thorn Creek Audubon Society. You can also find out more about the Audubon Great Lakes Calumet Marsh Bird Survey and how you can get involved by visiting theAudubon Great Lakes website.
-If you’d like to learn more about birds at Big Marsh, you can check outBig Marsh’s Hotspot profile on eBird, which is a community science network for birders
Hiking
-The trails that wind through our Southeast Side parks are ideal for all types of hiking. With both mulched trails and paved multi-use trails, everyone can enjoy the outdoors—from a quick lunchtime stroll to a vigorous day of activity.
-When heading out for your hike, it’s always a good idea to dress for the weather and bring along your favorite refillable water bottle. Don’t forget sun protection! Start your adventure at the FCEC to check out a Junior Explorer kit or field guide, or to review trail maps before you set off.
Contact
If you are interested in learning more about or reserving one of our eco-recreation programs and events, please use the following contact information.
