Friends of the Green Bay Trail is a volunteer-driven 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to restoring and preserving the natural beauty of the Green Bay Trail, which stretches nearly nine miles from Wilmette to Highland Park, Illinois. Since 2010, the group has focused on environmental stewardship, transforming the trail into a thriving native prairie ecosystem that serves both the community and local wildlife.

The organization’s mission centers on creating a sustainable natural corridor that promotes community well-being. By removing invasive species and planting native flora, Friends of the Green Bay Trail enhances biodiversity and supports pollinators like monarch butterflies. Their efforts have earned recognition from the Homegrown National Park initiative, which highlights the trail as a model for ecological restoration.

Community engagement is a cornerstone of their work. Events like Trail Restoration Days and the annual Green Bay Trail Day invite volunteers to participate in conservation activities. These efforts improve the trail’s environment and foster a strong sense of community. Educational programs, including a monarch butterfly hatchery, offer learning opportunities that emphasize the importance of native species and ecological balance.

Friends of the Green Bay Trail relies on volunteers and donations to sustain its initiatives. Opportunities for involvement range from restoration events to assisting with outreach and communications. Their commitment to preservation and public engagement makes them a vital asset to the North Shore.



For more information on events, volunteering, or to donate, visit www.gbtrail.org.