T-R PHOTO BY ANNA SHEARER Marshall County Conservation Board Naturalist Emily Herring poses for a picture at Grimes Farm and Conservation Center. She said the scavenger hunt is always a popular event for families.

Grimes Farm and Conservation Center will host a Nocturnal Scavenger Hunt for the third time on Aug. 20. Participants will hike the trails using flashlights with reflectors leading them to prizes.

“It’s always a fun time and well-received,” Emily Herring, naturalist with the Marshall County Conservation Board said.

Participants must preregister before 4 p.m. Aug. 14. Spots are limited to 12 household groups. Three groups can come at a time but will be spaced out on the trail to allow for social distancing.

Participants will sign up for staggered start times beginning at 8:30 p.m. and the event will end at 10 p.m.

The event is free to attend, and participants should bring their own flashlights and wear sturdy shoes.

Herring said she always enjoys seeing kids out on the trails, laughing and having a good time with their families.

Marshalltown has experienced a strange summer with many traditions canceled due to the pandemic. With COVID-19 still a concern, it can be difficult to find fun, safe activities to do with kids. Participating in the scavenger hunt is a great way to get out of the house while continuing to social distance, she said. The outside location and separation of groups reduces the risk of spread.

As summer reaches its end, families can squeeze in some last warm weather fun.

“It’s always a great conclusion to the summer,” Herring said.

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Contact Anna Shearer at 641-753-6611 or ashearer@timesrepublican.com