There's nothing quite like the sight of the first flowers of the season, or the smell of fresh air through open windows. Though the first signs of spring are beckoning you to step outside and spend some time in the wilderness, you might be new to hiking and find yourself wondering, "Where do I begin? What should I bring? What should I wear, and what if I see a bear?" In this program, we’ll discuss the knowledge, gear, and skills you’ll need to be prepared to safely set out for springtime excursions. Afterwards, we’ll head out on an (optional) hike at nearby Highlands Preserve. This program is designed for the beginners who are just starting out, and the intermediate hiker looking to expand their knowledge base.