Be a Trailblazer is challenging, fun and changing lives

We are proud to sponsor the Forest Preserve District of Will County’s popular Be a Trailblazer campaign to help connect people to everything the District has to offer — from programs and recreational opportunities to conservation efforts that protect land and improve ecosystems.

“They’ll use our $7,500 gift to promote and incentivize participation in the campaign,” said Tara Neff, The Nature Foundation’s executive director.

We treated participants to coffee, cocoa and cookies at Hickory Creek Junction so they could share feedback with District staff, swap stories and hit the trails to complete missions.

An Campbell of Romeoville wore a sweatshirt she made to show people she meets on her adventures that she’s a Trailblazer.  She walks to achieve her health goals and the campaign keeps her motivated to get outside and explore the preserves.

“I don't particularly like walking in cold weather, but I am competitive and am hooked since these challenges come with prizes,” she said, adding that she has walked at least 2 miles a day since September.

Before participating in the challenges, An spent most of her time in the preserves close to her home. Now, she can’t wait to revisit the new places she’s discovered.

Chad Merda, head of digital marketing strategy/engagement for the Forest Preserve District says they are well on their way to surpassing last year’s total of 2,000 participants.

“It’s important to us to continue to attract new people of all age groups, particularly families with young children,” he said. “Studies show it’s important to expose children to nature early on if you want them to develop a lifelong appreciation of the outdoors, and the Trailblazer experience can help do that.”

Elyse Bryla of Lemont says the memorable experiences she has with her kids make Be a Trailblazer special.  During their New Year’s Day hike along the Veterans Memorial Trail they stopped to watch a beaver – then saw a bald eagle flying just over their heads.

“The looks on the boys' faces were pure awe. They were silent for a handful of seconds just watching the eagle soar over the river and land in a tree across from us, and then they started laughing and bouncing up and down with joy and excitement,” Elyse said. “It was amazing to see, and my heart felt so full that we got to share that moment.”

This is the fourth year the Forest Preserve District has offered a digital scavenger hunt using the Goosechase app.  2026 marks the second year it’s been offered as Be A Trailblazer, an iteration that encourages participants to visit the preserves on their own schedules.

“We’ve heard from people that they really enjoy the casual format, where it’s not a competition but they can do as much or as little as they want,” Chad said. “That’s really part of our goal, making this as enticing to as many people as we can so they can engage and interact with the Forest Preserve District how they want.”

For Elyse, the missions add a sense of purpose and accomplishment.

“My boys love the challenge of finding the spots and seeing who can find the most on the mission,” Elyse said. “We all feel restored after spending the time outside and have really enjoyed getting to preserves we may not have known about.”

If you’re not already blazing a trail through the preserves, what are you waiting for?  It’s easy to join!  Download the Goosechase app and search for Be a Trailblazer or use join code JYBKK4.  See you in the preserves!