Why we do it

The answer is as clear as a sunny afternoon on the trail. See the dozens of joggers, bikers, and children walking with parents—all surrounded in natural beauty. You’ll understand.
 

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Native Plants

naturally good neighbors
Over centuries, native plants evolved together with birds, butterflies and other species to create a balanced, healthy environment.
 

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Alien Invasion!

Not little green men, but little green plants from across the seas—often beautiful, but frequently evil. Many are brought here as decorative ground cover. Sometimes they arrive as hitchhikers.
 
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Monarch Hatchery

Observe, both in the wild or at our children-friendly hatchery, the monarch butterfly growing from egg to caterpillar, caterpillar to chrysalis, and chrysalis to majestic monarch.
 

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Volunteer and Support

We need your help. The Friends of the Green Bay Trail is an entirely volunteer organization. Join us when you can.
 
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Upcoming Events

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Coming to an event? Please let us know!

What we do

We are environmental stewards of the Green Bay Trail, restoring a natural,  prairie eco-system. Our goal is to make the trail a national example of the healthy intersection of nature and culture that inspires community and individual well-being. LEARN MORE

Friday Fun Facts – Did you know?

Hibernating Butterflies

Some species of butterflies hibernate in logs or underneath loose bark on trees and spend the entire winter here. Illinois species, such as Mourning Cloaks, even overwinter as adults. They can sometimes be seen during warm spells in January or February.

Witch Hazel

Witch Hazel can be seen on the Green Bay Trail in Glencoe. Its branches were once used to search and find underground sources of water and minerals.

Buckthorn Barbecue

Buy Tickets Now
The Buckthorn Barbecue is the Friends’ largest annual event. Join us on October 3, 2019 at the Chicago Botanic Garden. For information on the event and how to become a sponsor or buy tickets, CLICK HERE.

Trail Quiz

Question 1

Monarch Hatchery photoThis is the answer to question 1.

Question 2
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Question 3
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