Spring: An Opportunity to Reconnect with Nature
- starvedrockhikers
- Apr 6
- 3 min read
Go outside, your mind and body will appreciate it!
The days are getting longer, the sun is shining, and it is starting to warm up outside. After being cooped up in your home for the chilly winter, you can finally go outside and get a breath of fresh air without getting goosebumps. Hiking in the spring is not only a great way to improve your physical health but can also benefit mental health as well. There are a variety of ways in which hiking outside in the sunshine can boost mental and emotional health.
Hiking naturally increases endorphin levels and sunshine naturally increases serotonin, two hormones linked to feelings of happiness and well-being.
Being in nature is a great way to get away from any problems you may be currently facing in your life and unplug for a bit.
Time to relax! The endorphins released during hiking are also proven to reduce stress levels.
Having trouble focusing at work? Being active outside can help you refocus on the most important tasks currently in your life.
Connect with nature and put things into perspective!
Sightsee the blooming flowers, appearing colors, and wildlife coming back out.
If hiking solely to improve mental health, do not focus on the intensity of the hike or exercise aspect, instead focus on relaxing and enjoying time spent in nature.
Spring is a perfect season to hike, it is not too cold and not too hot. Hikers are sure to appreciate the vibrant colors and flowing waterfalls. Winter gloom is serious and hiking in the spring is a great transition to warm, sunny vibes coming our way. Starved Rock State Park is a perfect place to enjoy the great outdoors, whether taking a stroll on the riverwalk, hiking to waterfalls and canyons, or climbing to stunning overlooks . Go outside, your mind and body will appreciate it.
The best time of day to go
If you want a calmer, more peaceful hike, timing makes a big difference. Early morning and later afternoon tend to be the sweet spots in spring. The trails feel quieter, the light is softer, and it is easier to slow down and actually enjoy being outside. If you can swing it, try a weekday morning or an evening walk when the park starts to settle down again.
A quick heads up for spring conditions
Spring is prime time for waterfalls, fresh greenery, and that first real taste of warm weather, but the trails can be messy. Expect muddy sections, puddles, and slick spots near canyon bottoms and around waterfalls, especially after rain. Waterproof shoes help a lot, and layers are always a smart move since mornings and afternoons can feel completely different. One simple trail friendly reminder, walk through puddles, not around them. It helps protect the trail edges and keeps new side paths from forming.
As a reminder, we are asking every person who hikes to a waterfall this spring/summer to submit a waterfall flow rate report on our website at www.starvedrockhikers.com/waterfall-report. This takes less than 60 seconds and can be completed for all the major waterfalls within Starved Rock State Park. You can also attach photos/video clips of the waterfall.
Don’t forget to tag us and use the hashtag #starvedrockhikers when sharing all your spring hiking adventures! We’ll also do our best to keep hikers informed via our Hikers group on Facebook. Click here to join for free!
See you on the trails.
