Elkhart County Parks offering 'Creatures of the Night' hike July 25

ELKHART, Ind. -- Elkhart County Parks is inviting the public to take a hike ... after dark, to see the 'Creatures of the Night' that light up local forests.

"As fireworks and fairground lights illuminate our summer nights, another spectacular lightshow is sparking to life in our forests – fireflies," organizers said.

The hike will take place on Thursday, July 25, from 9:30 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. at Corson Riverwoods County Park.

“Many of us don’t have the opportunity to explore the woods at night, let alone during peak firefly season” said Annie Aguirre, program coordinator. “But if you time things right, walking down a forest path can feel like you’re a Hollywood star on the red carpet, surrounded by flashing lights. It’s truly a magical experience.”

The hike is free, open to all ages, and no registration is required.

"July's free program will give visitors the opportunity to learn about the fascinating lives of these bioluminescent beetles on a guided hike through the prairie and woods of Corson Riverwoods," organizers said.

Hikers will meet at Corson Riverwoods County Park, located north of Middlebury at the corner of C.R. 12 and C.R. 37 (12773 C.R. 12).

The 1.5-mile hike is weather-dependent, so those who are interested should check the Elkhart County Parks' website or Facebook page for the latest details.

The firefly hike is part of the Elkhart County Parks’ “Creatures of the Night” series, offered on the third Thursday of every month through September.

The remaining 2024 line-up includes:

• Moths: August 29 (9:00-10:30 pm) at Feedlot Shelter in Bonneyville Mill County Park
• Spiders: September 26 (7:30-9:00 pm) at Benton Dam in River Preserve County Park