2024 Highlights | Adventure, Growth, and Stewardship

Dear Starved Rock Hikers Community,

As 2024 comes to an end, I’m excited to reflect on an incredible year of growth, connection, and impact for Starved Rock Hikers. Together, we explored new places, supported each other, and gave back to the parks we proudly call home. Here are some highlights that made this year truly special:

“Ice Climbers of Starved Rock” Documentary Release

In partnership with the Illinois Office of Tourism and Heritage Corridor Destinations, we launched our “Ice Climbers of Starved Rock” documentary. This short-film captures the inspiring journey of a unique community of ice climbers scaling frozen waterfalls at Starved Rock State Park. Kyle and I were fortunate to see the project gain attention across the Midwest, with notable features including:

• A sold-out premiere in downtown Ottawa

• Segment on Fox 32 Chicago Evening News

• A special screening at Arc’teryx Chicago Outlet

• A showing on Illinois’ largest screen at the Peoria Riverfront Museum during the Illinois Governor's Conference on Travel & Tourism

Click here to view the trailer.

Starved Rock Hikers on the Tourism Stage

At the Illinois Governor’s Conference on Travel and Tourism, we had the privilege of introducing Starved Rock Hikers to travel professionals and outdoor enthusiasts from across the nation. It was an honor to represent this amazing community and share our passion for Starved Rock’s beauty and trails with industry leaders.

A New Way to Explore: The Starved Rock Puzzle

This year, we brought Starved Rock right into your home with the release of our Starved Rock map in a puzzle format. Featuring our custom-designed map, this puzzle is perfect for hikers, nature lovers, and puzzle enthusiasts. Whether as a one-of-a-kind gift or a personal keepsake, it offers a delightful way to relive your adventures piece by piece.Click here to learn more.

Calendar Fundraiser Success

The annual calendar fundraiser reached new heights in 2024! Thanks to the incredible contributions of photographers, supporters, and local businesses, we raised $5,400 to benefit Starved Rock and Matthiessen State Parks. Your generosity continues to make a meaningful impact. Click here for the full release.

Website Updates: Plan Your Perfect Visit

We made significant updates to our website this year, resulting in a large increase in traffic. From essential resources to helpful tools, our site has become an even better companion for your outdoor adventures:

• Parking Information: A new Parking Page features detailed lot descriptions, exact locations, and directions, making it easier than ever to find the perfect spot and enjoy more time on the trails.

• Fall Colors Tracker: This year’s Fall Colors Tracker became one of our most popular features, offering real-time updates to help visitors experience Starved Rock at its most vibrant during peak autumn foliage.

Giving Back to the Park

Thanks to proceeds from our unique products, we proudly donated $500 to the Starved Rock Foundation. These funds support conservation, education, and recreation efforts to ensure our beloved parks continue to inspire future generations. Learn more about the Foundation here.

Our Growing Community

The Starved Rock Hikers Community continues to thrive! This year, we welcomed countless new members and deepened connections with one another. From sharing photos and stories to offering trail advice and answering questions, this is the place for hikers like you to connect, learn, and inspire each other. Join our community here. 

As we look back on 2024, it’s clear that Starved Rock Hikers has become the go-to place to plan, explore, and share all things Starved Rock, Matthiessen, and Buffalo Rock State Parks—and it’s all because of you. The photos you share, the advice you give, and the experiences you celebrate have made this community something truly special.

With this shared passion comes a responsibility: to care for and protect these incredible places we cherish. Our shared love for the parks—through in-person visits, inspiring and educating others, and giving back—helps ensure their beauty and wonder endure for generations to come

See you on the trails,

Matthew Klein & Kyle Petersen

Co-Founders | Starved Rock Hikers