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Trail Talk Blog
Recommended hikes, insider tips, park events, season updates, and more - straight from the trails.
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Top 5 Waterfalls to Visit this Spring
Springtime is the best time for seeing waterfalls in Starved Rock and Matthiessen State Parks. Snowmelt and increased rainfall help the...

starvedrockhikers
Apr 304 min read
1,217 views


Spring Flowers Have Arrived
Flowers are never more beautiful than in the spring season, so be on the lookout for blooming petals and bright colors! As you walk...

starvedrockhikers
Apr 203 min read
818 views


What to Expect: Spring Trail Conditions
Waterfalls are flowing, flowers are starting to bloom, greenery is appearing, and rainfall is occurring more often. This leads to muddy...

starvedrockhikers
Apr 52 min read
486 views


5 Places to View Fall Colors at Starved Rock State Park
The ultimate fall colors viewing guide for Starved Rock. Leaves are falling and colors are starting to burst!

starvedrockhikers
Oct 22, 20243 min read
2,354 views


Fall Colors Day Hike at Starved Rock State Park
Leaves are changing colors. Here's the perfect day hike for those visiting the park in the Fall, with plenty to see along the way!

starvedrockhikers
Oct 16, 20244 min read
1,871 views


Fall Hiking Recommendations
The most anticipated questions around hiking at Starved Rock during Fall to help make your day a breeze.

starvedrockhikers
Oct 3, 20243 min read
2,984 views


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
223 views


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 1, 20243 min read
8,425 views


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
823 views


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
Jun 8, 20243 min read
1,603 views


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
295 views


Spring: An Opportunity to Reconnect with Nature
Go outside, your mind and body will appreciate it!
The days are getting longer, the sun is shining, and...

starvedrockhikers
Mar 24, 20242 min read
456 views


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
133 views


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
39 views


Hikers, We Need Your Help with Waterfall Flow Reports
Starved Rock Hikers, a group dedicated to enhancing the hiking experience in the Starved Rock region, is seeking the general public’s help..

starvedrockhikers
Mar 24, 20231 min read
77 views


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
265 views
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