Intro

The great thing about a big city is that it has a lots of “stuff.”

When I lived in Chicago, I loved the variety of sights and experiences within walking distance of my apartment – granted, my walking distance might have been a good deal farther than that of others, because I have always enjoyed walking. An old slogan stated: “Getting there is half the fun.” I’ve certainly always believed that. So, while I set out to photograph sculptures, you can join me on the walk that I took to get there on one fine Spring day in 2003.

I’ll shut up soon, but because people rarely think of the big cities as having natural areas, I’ll first provide the one-page introduction with a little Chicago information and a bit of history.

Since the Chicago River was just a mile west of my apartment, I chose to follow Chicago’s waterways to eventually get where I was going.

This is the view of the North Branch of the Chicago River as it flows through the heart of the city. Although most people wouldn’t think it, yes, it is possible to enjoy water recreation right in the middle of Chicago.

In fact, the environs of the city’s waterways harbor a surprising amount of wildlife – much more than anyone would suppose. Here’s evidence of an active beaver right here in the middle of the city. Believe it or not, beavers are quite a challenge to the communities along the river. The darn animals just won't quit doing what beavers do. But we don't want them damming the river and streams, and we don't want them felling the trees that it costs us taxpayers to plant!

Beaver relocation activities are an everyday part of big city administration in and around Chicago!

Water birds of every type, like these Mallard Ducks or this American Coot, will always take advantage of any aquatic environment year round.

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Since most of the river is fenced off, the river bank is like a protected wildlife preserve. It's especially good for bird watching in the Spring, when the migratory birds find the trees along the banks a nice, safe place to take a rest, or the isolated river’s edge a good spot to raise a brood, like the Canada Geese in the photo.

And the Chicagoans who live on the river all take advantage of their unique location.

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At the spot where Lawrence Avenue crosses the Chicago River, the city has provided a riverside path. At the time it was developed, it was actually a unique feature, because, for most of its length, the river bank is fenced off. For me, this made it was a most convenient spot to begin my hike.