Join us for a rare opportunity to walk the land with Sybil Kolon—longtime steward, storyteller, and donor of the beautiful Iron Creek Preserve.

This isn’t just a hike. It’s a journey through time.

Beginning August 13, Legacy Land Conservancy and Sybil Kolon invite you to experience “The Nature & History Behind Iron Creek Preserve”—a four-part guided walk series that travels backward through the layers of human history etched into the landscape.

Over the course of four months (Aug. 13, Sept. 10, Oct. 8, and Nov. 12), Sybil will lead participants on 1.5-mile walks through the preserve, weaving together personal stories, historical accounts, and ecological insights to illuminate how the land has been shaped—and reshaped—by those who’ve called it home.

As Sybil shared at Iron Creek Preserve’s June opening, “This is a dream come true that began 49 years ago. I have always wanted to connect people to nature, and that has been my focus since I retired.”

Let this be your invitation to connect—with nature, with history, and with the person whose vision and passion helped bring Iron Creek Preserve to life. Sign up for one or all of them!

The Nature & History Behind Iron Creek Preserve: A Four Part Guided Hike Series [SIGN UP HERE]

Session 1 – Recent Past
📅 Wednesday, August 13 | 2-4pm
Discover how Iron Creek Preserve came to be. Explore how the land healed after farming ended, and how hands-off stewardship allowed nature to reclaim space. Witness early impacts and lessons learned.

Session 2 – Post World War II
📅 Wednesday, September 10 | 2-4pm
From tractors to tile drains—see how Polish immigrants pursuing the American Dream transformed the land through farming, and how Legacy is working to restore it today.

Session 3 – European Settlers
📅 Wednesday, October 8 | 2-4pm
Uncover the story of the Sutton family and other early people who lived this land in the 1800s. We’ll dig into plat maps, local lore, and visible clues in the soil.

Session 4 – Glaciers & Early People
📅 Wednesday, November 12 | 2-4pm
Travel back over 10,000 years to when glaciers shaped the land and Paleoindians roamed. We’ll reflect on the deeper human-land connection throughout this period, how the complex relationships of indigenous people, early explorers, and European settlers altered the balance, and the work ahead to restore harmony.  

What to Expect

• Walks are free to attend, but registration is required
• Each session lasts ~2 hours and covers ~1.5 miles on trail
• Expect uneven terrain; please wear appropriate footwear
• Bring water, curiosity, and your love of the land

Location – Iron Creek Preserve, 11703 Noggles Rd, Manchester, MI 48158

Spots are limited. Don’t miss this chance to walk, wonder, and witness the layers of legacy at Iron Creek.

Registration Links

Session 1 – Recent Past – Wednesday, August 13 | 2-4pm | SIGN UP HERE

Session 2 – Post World War II – Wednesday, September 10 | 2-4pm | SIGN UP HERE

Session 3 – European Settlers – Wednesday, October 8 | 2-4pm | SIGN UP HERE

Session 4 – Glaciers & Early People – Wednesday, November 12 | 2-4pm | SIGN UP HERE