Explore the Serenity of John M Olin Nature Preserve
Discover the natural beauty of John M Olin Nature Preserve, an idyllic retreat for hiking, bird watching, and wildlife observation in Godfrey, Illinois.
Nestled in Godfrey, Illinois, the John M Olin Nature Preserve offers a breathtaking escape into nature, perfect for hiking, bird watching, and wildlife observation. With its diverse ecosystems, this preserve is a haven for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
A brief summary to John M Olin Nature Preserve (Nature Institute)
- 2213 S Levis Ln, Godfrey, Illinois, 62035, US
- +1618-466-9930
- Visit website
- Monday 7 am-7 pm
- Tuesday 7 am-7 pm
- Wednesday 7 am-7 pm
- Thursday 7 am-7 pm
- Friday 7 am-7 pm
- Saturday 7 am-7 pm
- Sunday 7 am-7 pm
Local tips
- Bring binoculars for bird watching; the preserve is home to many unique species.
- Wear comfortable hiking shoes, as trails can be uneven and vary in difficulty.
- Visit during early morning or late afternoon for the best wildlife sightings.
- Check the weather before your visit to ensure a pleasant outdoor experience.
- Consider joining a guided tour to learn more about the local ecosystem and wildlife.
Getting There
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Car
If you are traveling by car, start by heading southeast on Great River Road (Route 3) towards Godfrey. Merge onto I-255 N and take exit 1B for IL-3 N. Continue on IL-3 N until you reach the intersection with S Levis Ln. Turn left onto S Levis Ln and follow it until you reach the John M Olin Nature Preserve at 2213 S Levis Ln, Godfrey, IL 62035. Parking is available on-site.
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Public Transportation
To reach the John M Olin Nature Preserve via public transportation, take a bus to the nearest transit station in Alton, IL. From Alton, you may need to use a rideshare service (like Uber or Lyft) to get to the preserve, as public transit options directly to Godfrey may be limited. The approximate distance from Alton to the preserve is about 10 miles. Expect to pay for the bus fare and the rideshare service, which can vary based on distance and demand.
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Biking
For the adventurous, biking is a viable option if you are in a nearby area. From Alton, take the River Road bike trail heading south, which will eventually connect you to local roads leading to Godfrey. Follow local signage towards S Levis Ln. Ensure you wear a helmet and bring water. The ride is approximately 10 miles and may take around 1 hour depending on your pace.
Discover more about John M Olin Nature Preserve (Nature Institute)
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Great Rivers & Routes Tourism Bureau
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INHS Great Rivers Field Station
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Alton Museum of History & Art, Inc.
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Unmissable attractions to see
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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