Outdoor adventures at Starved Rock State Park
Winter offers a whole new world of opportunities at Starved Rock State Park. For those who love peaceful wintry scenery, venturing to Starved Rock in the winter provides an entirely different experience than other times of the year.
Maybe you’ll spy a view otherwise obstructed by trees full with leaves in the summer, or perhaps you’ll catch a glimpse of some wintertime wildlife. No matter the experience, there’s something special about nature in the winter. Crisp cool air beckons hikers to cross through frozen terrain while the crunch of snow underfoot keeps time of a march along the trail.
Winter family fun at St. Louis Canyon in Starved Rock State Park
(photo credit: heritagecorridorcvb.com)
Starved Rock State Park, and the area around Utica, offers many winter experiences for you to take part in, such as beautiful hiking trails and outdoor activities. While snow is on the ground, visitors can take advantage of cross-country ski rentals at nearby Matthiessen State Park.
If you’re looking for some last-minute travel inspiration, consider making a trip to Starved Rock this weekend for the Bald Eagle Watch Weekend. Starved Rock State Park will host guided winter hikes, children’s activities, a raptor awareness program with a live bald eagle and so much more.
Winter isn’t going away anytime soon, so take this chance to get rid of the winter blues and enjoy the unique experiences the outdoors in Illinois have to offer this time of year!
–The Illinois Office of Tourism
Last night, we got 1/2″ of snow. Hike to French Canyon this morning. It was beautiful, but icy. Be careful when hiking. Saw an huge bald eagle in a tree between the Visitor Center and boat house. He posed for a great photo! Even the lightest snowfall adds beauty to the Park. Join us this Saturday & Sunday for Eagle Watch Weekend!