The temperature are rising, and the season is changing. Get outside to explore spring with all your senses.

We often see so many amazing things outside that we want to capture them with a photo. But if you are only ever looking up and out, you are missing out on some amazing views. Try looking down, way, way down. Not at the big things, but at the tiny, tiny parts of nature.

Feeling cooped up? Here are a few new ideas to try and get you outside, get your body moving and your mind out of the winter slump. 

Spring and autumn are the seasons of mushrooms, with many different species showing their fruiting bodies. But some mushrooms, like jelly fungus, can be found year-round.

Cold weather is no reason to stay indoors. Make a plan to spend some time in the woods and enjoy the longest night of the year.

With their shades of pink, purple, yellow and white, spring wildflowers usually get the credit for bringing the most color to the preserves. And while their bright colors are beautiful, the autumn season is full of color too! After the leaves start to fall, those colors are not as bright and may be more subtle, but they bring no less beauty to the preserve.  (Photo by Glenn P. Knoblock) In fact, this is one of the best times of year to get outside and count the colors! While

Looking for a place to let the kids explore this fall? Check out Hickory Creek Preserve.

Fishing is full of surprises so pack light stay patient and enjoy nature. Be quiet near the shore to avoid scaring wildlife. Look for fish near weeds rocks or logs. If you get snagged stay calm and try different angles to free your hook and always clean up your line. Switch techniques if fish are not biting and remember the real win is spending time outside even if you do not catch a thing.