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Along The Rock

Along The Rock

Rambling Days: Explore Dixon’s Hidden Natural Beauty by Car! 🌳🍂

Along The Rock · Oct 7, 2026 · 16:04

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On this episode of Along the Rock, host Kierstyn Long sits down with Ana Smith, director of the Ruth Edwards Nature Center at the Dixon Park District, to explore Rambling Days and the many ways the community can enjoy Dixon’s parks and natural spaces.

Rambling Days Sunday, October 18
1 to 4 p.m.
Dixon Park District Meadows

Rambling Days gives visitors a unique opportunity to drive through the backcountry area of the Meadows and stop along the way to explore the trails, scenery, and natural beauty. The free event features two routes, volunteers throughout the property, and opportunities for families, seniors, and visitors with accessibility concerns to experience an area that is normally closed to vehicle traffic.

Ana also discusses the extensive trail system connecting the Meadows and Lowell Park, wildlife viewing opportunities, the Trailforks app, and other upcoming Dixon Park District events, including the popular spooky hike.

🌳 Get outside, explore Dixon, and discover the natural spaces right in your own backyard!


👉 Don’t forget to like, share, comment and subscribe for more local stories from the Sauk Valley and beyond.


🎧 Listen to the full podcast and explore more at https://theradar.online


🎤 Highlights:


00:00 – Welcome to Along the Rock

00:36 – What Is Rambling Days?

01:04 – From Color Drive to Rambling Days

01:32 – Exploring the Backcountry

02:16 – Maps, Volunteers & Trail Forks

02:32 – One Day a Year You Can Drive the Trails

02:59 – 18.5 Miles of Trails & Two Routes

03:40 – Accessibility & Family-Friendly Exploration

04:19 – Event Date & Hours

04:59 – Rambling Days Is Completely Free

05:41 – What Makes Dixon’s Natural Areas Special?

06:20 – Wildlife, Meadows & Quiet Trails

07:30 – 800 Acres of Connected Parkland

08:47 – Exploring Dixon’s Trails

10:05 – Rambling Days: October 18

10:17 – Upcoming Dixon Park District Events

10:43 – The Spooky Hike

11:49 – Family-Friendly Frights & Werewolf Sightings

13:44 – Different Hike Options for Different Ages

14:12 – Community, Family & Outdoor Fun

14:56 – Where to Find More Information

15:28 – Thanks for Watching


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#RamblingDays #DixonIllinois #DixonIL #DixonParkDistrict #RuthEdwardsNatureCenter #AlongTheRock #RadarFreePress #Nature #FallColors #FallInIllinois #IllinoisNature #Hiking #NatureTrails #OutdoorAdventure #FamilyFun #ExploreDixon #SaukValley #SpookyHike #CommunityEvents #GetOutside

Episodes: Along The Rock

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