Rambling Days is returning for its fifth year on Sunday, October 18th from 1 to 4 p.m. The event was previously known as the Color Drive, but the Dixon Park District changed the name to better reflect the purpose of the event. Rather than simply driving through the property to look at fall colors, visitors are encouraged to stop, explore, and ramble through the landscape.
The event provides a rare opportunity to drive into the backcountry area of the Dixon Park District’s Meadows property. The entrance is located near the soccer fields, where visitors can receive maps and information before choosing which route they would like to explore. Volunteers will also be stationed throughout the area to help visitors navigate.
The Dixon Park District has more than 18.5 miles of trails, and Rambling Days will feature two routes for visitors to choose from. One route will be approximately four miles and offer a more accessible experience, while the other will provide a more natural, rugged experience.
A major goal of Rambling Days is making the natural area accessible to people who may not otherwise be able to walk long distances. Seniors, families with young children, and people with accessibility concerns can use the opportunity to experience portions of the property by car while still having the option to stop and explore along the way.
The event is free, and visitors can arrive anytime during the 1-to-4 p.m. window. The park district will monitor vehicles entering and leaving the area to help ensure that everyone can safely enjoy the experience.
Smith also recommends the Trailforks app for anyone exploring the trails. The app can help visitors keep track of their location and avoid getting lost while navigating the extensive trail system.
A Natural Area Worth Exploring
The Meadows property encompasses approximately 609 acres and connects to Lowell Park through the bike path, which follows an old railroad route. Together, the two parks provide approximately 800 acres of connected parkland and trails.
The area offers a variety of terrain, including hills, wooded areas, meadows, and more natural trail sections. The North Woods provides particularly scenic opportunities for visitors looking for a more challenging and immersive experience.
The property also provides opportunities for wildlife viewing. Visitors may encounter butterflies, birds, and other wildlife while exploring the trails. An overlook provides a view across a large meadow, with birdhouses scattered throughout the landscape.
For Smith, the natural beauty of Dixon’s park system is one of its greatest assets. The combination of preserved natural areas, extensive trails, and connections between parks allows residents to experience nature without having to travel far from home.
More Outdoor Events Coming to Dixon
Rambling Days is just one of several outdoor opportunities planned through the Dixon Park District.
The district’s recreation programs include basketball activities at the Meadows Complex, along with after-school programming for children. At Lowell Park, another outdoor event is coming up with the return of the spooky hike.
The spooky hike will feature several routes designed for different ages and comfort levels. A route around the pine area will provide a family-friendly experience for younger children, including families with strollers, while other routes will offer a more adventurous and spooky experience.
The event will also include vendors, food trucks, s’mores, and live music, creating an opportunity for families to spend time together outdoors. The Dixon Park District is continuing to build on the event’s first year by expanding the activities available to visitors.
Smith emphasized the importance of creating events that encourage families and community members to spend time outside together. The park district’s programming is designed to provide opportunities for people of different ages and interests to enjoy Dixon’s parks and natural spaces.
For information about Rambling Days, the spooky hike, and other upcoming programs, residents can follow the Dixon Park District on Facebook. Additional nature-related information is available through the Lowell Park Nature Center’s Facebook page and the park district’s website.
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