top of page

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


Your Guide to Eagle Watch Weekend at Starved Rock | 2026 Plan Your Visit
Witness majestic eagles soaring high in the sky in one of the most unforgettable winter experiences in Illinois. Each winter, nature lovers, photographers, families, and outdoor enthusiasts gather at Starved Rock State Park for one of the most anticipated events of the season: Eagle Watch Weekend. This year, the tradition continues on Saturday, January 24 and Sunday, January 25, 2026 , with two full days of education, exploration, and awe across multiple locations throughout

starvedrockhikers
6 days ago4 min read


Exploring Winter Wildlife in Central Illinois
Starved Rock State Park is a haven for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. It's also perfect for observing wildlife in the winter!

starvedrockhikers
Jan 163 min read


Winter Day Hike at Starved Rock | Frozen waterfalls and more
Snow is falling, and you’re excited to take a roadtrip to Starved Rock State Park to experience the beauty of winter. But time is limited...

starvedrockhikers
Jan 53 min read


Winter Hiking Recommendations
Recommendations to enhance your Winter hiking experience!

starvedrockhikers
Dec 13, 20254 min read


Importance of Winter Shoe Traction
Non-slip shoes do not provide enough traction when on the icy trails. Adding extra traction to your boots with Yaktrax, Microspikes, or ...

starvedrockhikers
Dec 12, 20252 min read


Now Streaming | Ice Climbers of Starved Rock
Ice Climbers of Starved Rock officially available to stream — for FREE. This 28-minute film captures the passion, grit, and awe-inspiring...

starvedrockhikers
Mar 29, 20251 min read


Hiking in the Cold and Snow
How to enjoy a hike at Starved Rock State Park in the midst of winter...What you need to know before hiking at Starved Rock this winter...

starvedrockhikers
Jan 4, 20253 min read


Eagle Watch Weekend at Starved Rock State Park
Eagle Watch Weekend offers free, family-friendly fun for nature lovers at Starved Rock! Bundle up for an unforgettable winter adventure...

starvedrockhikers
Dec 3, 20244 min read


ICE CLIMBERS OF STARVED ROCK DOCUMENTARY TO PREMIERE FEB 3, 2024
The public is invited to an unforgettable evening at the Roxy Cinema on Saturday, February 3, 2024, where the film will be screened at....

starvedrockhikers
Jan 29, 20243 min read


Meeting the Ice Climbers of Starved Rock State Park, IL
The stories, challenges, and tips of two experienced Starved Rock icefall climbers. The ice is in and the climbers are out! Ice climbers...

starvedrockhikers
Jan 17, 20243 min read


Top 5 Winter Instagram Posts - 2023
As the winter season of the park ends, we would like to look back at 5 of our favorite Instagram posts, where @starvedrockhikers was...

starvedrockhikers
Apr 6, 20232 min read


Starved Rock Hikers Featured on Let's Go with Catie Keogh Podcast
Starved Rock State Park, Matthiessen State Park, and Starved Rock Hikers were recently featured in the "Midwest Winter Destinations" episode

starvedrockhikers
Dec 19, 20221 min read
bottom of page
