The Wooded Island in Chicago

On a trip to Chicago several years ago, I had the opportunity to visit Wooded Island, also known as The Paul Douglas Nature Sanctuary located in Jackson Park on Chicago's South Side. This 16-acre manmade island is accessible from two bridges that cross over the lagoon surrounding Wooded Island. Access to the island is only by foot or bicycle.

To get to Wooded Island you can take the bridge that is located close to the parking lot on Hayes Drive. The other bridge is located on the north side of the island and is called the Clarence Darrow Bridge. The North Bridge takes you to the area of Wooded Island that is the Osaka Japanese Garden.

The Osaka Japanese Garden is an absolutely beautiful area of the island. Waterfalls cascade down rocks into pools that are surrounded by beautiful plants and flowers. The lovely gardens feature flowering trees, shrubs and flowers with rocks that are perfectly placed to enhance the natural beauty of the garden. Japanese lanterns, statues and the exquisite moon bridge add to the charm to this beautiful place. The garden is constructed as a Japanese Hill Garden, which means that it was built so that you cannot see the entire garden at one time. The purpose of a Japanese hillside strolling garden is to have your senses stimulated as you view each area as you stroll the hills and walk on the twisting and turning pathways. When you visit Wooded Island, make sure to take time to see the Osaka Japanese Garden section of the park.

A great place for bird watching, Wooded Island has bird walks that are lead by a tour guide each Wednesday morning at 7:00 a.m. and Saturday mornings at 8:00 a.m. Hosted by the Chicago Audubon Society, the birding tours are free. If you are interested in taking this interesting morning walk, meet the guide and other birders at the Clarence Darrow Bridge where the tours begin. All you need are your binoculars and your field guide.

I find Wooded Island a beautiful place to visit during the spring, summer or fall, at least in my opinion. I am sure it is also beautiful in the winter, but for me the area is just too cold. If you find yourself in the Chicago area, make sure to take the time to see nature at its best, visit the Wooded Island in Jackson Park.