top of page

Trail Talk Blog
Recommended hikes, insider tips, park events, season updates, and more - straight from the trails.
Search


How to Avoid the Summer Crowds
It’s no secret that Starved Rock State Park receives millions of visitors every year. School is out, temperatures are rising...

starvedrockhikers
Jul 193 min read


Visiting/Photographing Sunflowers at Matthiessen State Park, IL
Sunflowers are back at Matthiessen State Park, IL. Here's all the details you need to make your next trip to the sunflowers a success...

starvedrockhikers
Jul 113 min read


Upcoming Adventures at Starved Rock: Your Guide to 2025 Events
Discover exciting Starved Rock events in 2025! From hikes to art shows, explore nature's beauty. Don't miss out on these Starved Rock events

starvedrockhikers
Feb 53 min read


5 Tips for Hiking with Kids this Summer
It's the middle of summer and families are looking for ways to go outside and make memories, even in the summer heat...

Liz Christensen
Aug 4, 20243 min read


Beat the Heat with these 5 Tips
Days are getting longer, the sun is shining, and it's the middle of summer. While summer is a great time to hit the trails, it is...

starvedrockhikers
Jul 23, 20243 min read


2025 Starved Rock & Matthiessen Calendar Photo Submissions Open
The Starved Rock & Matthiessen Calendar is returning for the 2025 calendar year with 100% of proceeds being donated to the...

starvedrockhikers
Jul 13, 20242 min read


Summer Day Hike at Starved Rock State Park
The perfect summer day hike guide for those seeking summer sunshine and good times.

starvedrockhikers
Jun 19, 20244 min read


Leave No Trace at Starved Rock State Park
We're all drawn to the natural beauty of Starved Rock State Park. Its sandstone canyons, cascading waterfalls, and vibrant wildlife offer...

starvedrockhikers
May 24, 20243 min read


How to Take Your Best Photos on the Next Hike
How do you capture your best photos on your next hike? Hear from a local photographer to help make your next photography hike a success...

starvedrockhikers
Sep 3, 20233 min read


Hiking is Good for Your Health
By incorporating hiking into your lifestyle, you can reduce your risk and manage various health conditions. Here are some...

starvedrockhikers
Jul 3, 20232 min read


Be a Guest on the Blog!
Share your hiking experiences, tips, tricks, and more with other hikers - just like you!

starvedrockhikers
Jun 11, 20231 min read


Starved Rock Hikers Launches New Map for Starved Rock State Park
A unique, visually appealing, hand-drawn Starved Rock map for all hikers. The new map is designed to...

starvedrockhikers
Apr 18, 20232 min read


Camping Near Starved Rock State Park
As spring gets closer & the weather warms up, camping season has arrived. Camping is a great way to experience & be one with the outdoors...

starvedrockhikers
Apr 12, 20232 min read


Look Up, Down, & All-Around on Your Hike to St. Louis Canyon
Ann Kafer's recent hike, experience, and tips for hiking to one of Starved Rock's most visited canyons. Don’t forget to look up, down, and..

Ann Kafer
Aug 11, 20223 min read
bottom of page
