For nature lovers and Marshalltown residents who love to wake up early, there is a free event on July 29 which should satisfy.

Marshall County Conservation will host the second Sunrise Hike of the year at 6 a.m. at Grammer Grove. Folks who participate in the hike should be back in time for work, as it will last until 7 a.m.

Naturalist Emma Bruck said it provides a wonderful opportunity for residents to explore a new area with like-minded people and enjoy the nature of the early-morning hours.

“It’s a good time,” she said. “We see a lot of cool stuff. Last time we were at the Iowa River Wildlife Management Area. We saw a skunk and other animals that usually get spooked.”

Bruck said fortunately, everyone walked away without getting sprayed by the skunk. They just observed from a safe distance.

Grammer Grove, which is near Liscomb, is one of Bruck’s favorite park trails.

“There is a lot of wildlife and flowers,” she said. “It has flat terrain and is well-maintained.”

The excursions are only held during the warmer months, with the last one scheduled for September. The sunrises in October take place later in the day, which is why that month is not included in the series.

As this is only the second year the seasonal monthly Sunrise Hikes have been held, Bruck has not been leading the events very long. However, she takes care in choosing the spots hikers will explore, and makes sure to not visit the same place twice within the same year. In August, the Sunrise Hike will be held at Marietta Sand Prairie.

Last year, hikers visited Marietta, along with Three Bridges and the Green Castle Recreation Area.

On average, she said five to 10 people will attend a Sunrise Hike.

“It can be hard to persuade people to get out of bed that early, but we do have fun,” Bruck said.

For people who are up to waking earlier than usual and want to give it a go on July 29, she said they will meet at Grammer Grove. Bruck added it is very informal. They should bring some bug spray and wear hiking shoes that are okay to get dirty and muddy.

“Some bring their first cup of coffee,” Bruck said.

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Contact Lana Bradstream

at 641-753-6611 ext. 210 or

lbradstream@timesrepublican.com.