Plan to be surprised and awed at the spectacular natural features found here at Starved Rock in Illinois.
Surrounded by the flat, seemingly endless fields of Illinois farm country, a totally different topography is found within the park. Starved Rock was formed thousands of years ago by the melting of glaciers releasing torrents of water. As the water rushed downstream it eroded and stripped away everything in its path except the resistant St. Peter sandstone. It is that sandstone that formed the steep rock walls and the cool dark valleys of the eighteen canyons. When conditions are right cascades of falling water spill down into these gorges, creating the waterfalls so many come here to enjoy.
WATERFALLS Although you can technically see waterfalls in 14 of the 18 canyons, some of the most scenic waterfalls are found in St. Louis, French, Wildcat, Tonty, Ottawa and Kaskaskia canyons. The best times to see waterfalls are in the spring when the snow and ice melt or after a heavy rainfall.
ICEFALLS Winter brings a whole new life to the canyons. The freezing and melting that happens during this time of year creates amazing ice sculptures in the canyons. Make sure you come back in the winter to see an icefall – they are spectacular!
The every popular Western Meadowlark. The western meadowlark has distinctive calls described as watery or flute-like, which distinguish it from the closely related eastern meadowlark. The western meadowlark is the state bird of six states: Montana, Kansas, Nebraska, North Dakota, Oregon, and Wyoming.
The Hooded and Common Merganser. In most places, the common merganser is as much a frequenter of salt water as fresh water. In larger streams and rivers, they float down with the stream for a few miles, and either fly back again or more commonly fish their way back, diving incessantly the whole way. In smaller streams, they are present in pairs or smaller groups, and they float down, twisting round and round in the rapids, or fishing vigorously in a deep pool near the foot of a waterfall or rapid. When floating leisurely, they position themselves in water similar to ducks, but they also swim deep in water like cormorants, especially when swimming upstream. They often sit on a rock in the middle of the water, similar to cormorants, often half-opening their wings to the sun. To rise from water, they flap along the surface for many yards. Once they are airborne, the flight is strong and rapid. They often fish in a group forming a semicircle and driving the fish into shallow water, where they are captured easily. Their ordinary voice is a low, harsh croak, but during the breeding season, they (including the young) make a plaintive, soft whistle. Generally, they are wary, and one or more birds stay on sentry duty to warn the flock of approaching danger. When disturbed, they often disgorge food before moving. Though they move clumsily on land, they resort to running when pressed, assuming a very upright position similar to penguins, and falling and stumbling frequently.
The Ruffed Grouse. Ruffed grouse have two distinct morphs: grey and brown. In the grey morph, the head, neck and back are grey-brown; the breast is light with barring. There is much white on the underside and flanks, and overall the birds have a variegated appearance; the throat is often distinctly lighter. The tail is essentially the same brownish grey, with regular barring and a broad black band near the end (“subterminal”). Brown-morph birds have tails of the same color and pattern, but the rest of the plumage is much more brown, giving the appearance of a more uniform bird with less light plumage below and a conspicuously grey tail. There are all sorts of intergrades between the most typical morphs; warmer and more humid conditions favor browner birds in general.
Displaying male
The ruffs are on the sides of the neck in both sexes. They also have a crest on top of their head, which sometimes lies flat. Both genders are similarly marked and sized, making them difficult to tell apart, even in hand. The female often has a broken subterminal tail band, while males tend to have unbroken tail bands, though the opposite of either can occur. Females may also do a display similar to the male. Another fairly accurate sign is that rump feathers with a single white dot indicate a female; rump feathers with more than one white dot indicate a male.
The red-necked grebe is a migratory aquatic bird found in the temperate regions of the northern hemisphere. Its wintering habitat is largely restricted to calm waters just beyond the waves around ocean coasts, although some birds may winter on large lakes. Grebes prefer shallow bodies of fresh water such as lakes, marshes or fish-ponds as breeding sites.
The red-necked grebe is a nondescript dusky-grey bird in winter. During the breeding season, it acquires the distinctive red neck plumage, black cap and contrasting pale grey face from which its name was derived. It also has an elaborate courtship display and a variety of loud mating calls. Once paired, it builds a nest from water plants on top of floating vegetation in a shallow lake or bog.
The barred owl, also known as northern barred owl or hoot owl, is a true owl native to eastern North America. Adults are large, and are brown to grey with barring on the chest. Barred owls have expanded their range to the west coast of North America, where they are considered invasive.
The common loon or great northern diver is a large member of the loon, or diver, family of birds. Breeding adults have a plumage that includes a broad black head and neck with a greenish, purplish, or bluish sheen, blackish or blackish-grey upperparts, and pure white underparts except some black on the undertail coverts and vent. Non-breeding adults are brownish with a dark neck and head marked with dark grey-brown. Their upperparts are dark brownish-grey with an unclear pattern of squares on the shoulders, and the underparts, lower face, chin, and throat are whitish. The sexes look alike, though males are significantly heavier than females.
When it comes to hiking, it’s important to pack lightweight and non-perishable food items that will provide you with the necessary energy to keep going. Here are some ideas for food for hiking:
Trail mix: Mix together your favorite nuts, seeds, and dried fruits to create a healthy and delicious snack. Add in some chocolate chips or other treats for a little indulgence.
Jerky: Beef, turkey, or even vegetarian jerky is a great source of protein and easy to pack. Plus, it’s a tasty and savory treat to enjoy on the trail.
Cheese and crackers: Choose hard, aged cheese varieties that won’t spoil quickly, and pair them with some whole grain crackers. This will give you a nice balance of carbs and protein.
Peanut butter and jelly sandwich: This classic sandwich is perfect for hiking. Choose a bread that’s dense and hearty, and pack the peanut butter and jelly in separate containers to keep them fresh.
Tuna or salmon pouches: These protein-packed pouches are easy to pack and come in a variety of flavors. Eat them plain or mix them with some crackers for a more substantial meal.
Instant oatmeal: If you’re camping overnight, a hot bowl of oatmeal is a great way to start the day. Choose instant oatmeal packets that you can simply add hot water to.
Energy bars: There are a wide variety of energy bars on the market these days, so choose one that you enjoy and that provides a good balance of carbs, protein, and fat.
Instant coffee or tea: If you need a caffeine boost, bring some instant coffee or tea bags along. Simply add hot water and enjoy.
Remember to always pack out what you pack in and follow Leave No Trace principles.
The Carlson Lakes Trail is a popular hiking trail located in the Superior National Forest in Minnesota. It is a relatively short trail, but can be challenging due to its steep inclines and rocky terrain.
The trail takes hikers through a series of interconnected lakes, each with its own unique beauty and character. The trail provides access to scenic views of the lakes and the surrounding forest, and is a great choice for birdwatching, fishing, and other outdoor activities.
In addition to its natural beauty, the Carlson Lakes Trail is also popular for its historic significance. The trail follows an old logging road that was used to transport logs from the surrounding forest to the nearby town of Ely. Today, the trail is a popular destination for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts, and provides a glimpse into the area’s rich logging history.
Before heading out on the Carlson Lakes Trail, be sure to check trail conditions, bring appropriate gear and supplies, and follow Leave No Trace principles to help protect the natural beauty of the area.
Bison: Bison were once native to the Midwest and were a vital part of many indigenous cultures. They were hunted nearly to extinction in the 19th century but have since made a comeback and can now be found in many parks and preserves in the region.
White-tailed deer: White-tailed deer are the most common large mammal in the Midwest and are often seen in fields and forests. They have excellent senses of hearing, smell, and sight, which helps them avoid predators and find food.
Eastern Gray Squirrel: Eastern Gray Squirrels are one of the most common species of squirrels in the Midwest. They are known for their agility and intelligence, and are often seen as pests by homeowners due to their habit of raiding bird feeders.
Red Fox: Red Foxes are common in the Midwest and are known for their distinctive red fur and bushy tails. They are omnivores, meaning they eat both plants and animals, and are known for their cunning and adaptability.
Eastern Cottontail Rabbit: Eastern Cottontail Rabbits are common in the Midwest and are a favorite food source for many predators, including hawks, foxes, and coyotes. Despite this, they have a high reproductive rate and can often be seen in fields and along roadsides.
Raccoon: Raccoons are common in the Midwest and are known for their masked faces and playful personalities. They are omnivores and are skilled climbers, which allows them to access food in trees and human-made structures.
The Midwest region of the United States has some fantastic hiking trails for outdoor enthusiasts. Here are a few popular ones:
1. The North Country Trail (or simply know as the NCT) – This long-distance trail stretches from New York to North Dakota, passing through several states in the Midwest, including Ohio, Michigan, and Minnesota, thus stretching over 4,800 miles. The NCT connects more than 160 public land units, including parks, forests, scenic attractions, wildlife refuges, game areas, and historic sites.
The trail passes by Wren Falls in Iron County, WisconsinThe North Country Trail in the Manistee National Forest, Michigan
2. The Ozark Trail – This trail system in Missouri offers over 350 miles of scenic hiking, with diverse landscapes ranging from rocky bluffs to rolling hills. The trail is currently composed of thirteen sections, most of which are joined to other sections, though some gaps exist.
View of the Taum Sauk section of the trail on Goggins Mountain
3. The Ice Age National Scenic Trail – This trail in Wisconsin follows the terminal moraine of the last ice age and offers stunning views of glacial landscapes. Stretching 1,200 miles, the trail passes through 30 of Wisconsin’s 72 counties, from the northwestern part of the state to the Lake Michigan shoreline in the east. The western end of the trail is at Interstate State Park along the St. Croix River, which is the border between northwestern Wisconsin and eastern Minnesota. The eastern terminus of the Ice Age Trail lies at Potawatomi State Park, along Wisconsin’s Door Peninsula off of Sturgeon Bay.
The Ice Age Trail’s Wood Lake segment in Taylor County
4. The Superior Hiking Trail (also know as the SHT) – This trail in Minnesota runs along the ridgeline of the Sawtooth Mountains, offering panoramic views of Lake Superior and the surrounding wilderness. This 310 miles trail travels through forests of birch, aspen, pine, fir, and cedar. Hikers enjoy views of boreal forests, the Sawtooth Mountains, babbling brooks, rushing waterfalls, and abundant wildlife.
Temperance River State Park Bridge
5. The Shawnee National Forest – This forest in southern Illinois has several hiking trails, including the River to River Trail, Garden of the Gods, and the Pine Hills Nature Trail. It consists of approximately 280,000 acres with seven designated wilderness areas.
Rock formations near hiking trail Scenic view
6. The Badlands National Park – South Dakota’s Badlands National Park offers several hiking trails with unique geological formations and abundant wildlife. located in southwestern South Dakota. The park protects 242,756 acres of sharply eroded buttes and pinnacles, along with the largest undisturbed mixed grass prairie in the United States.
The Badlands National Park
These are just a few of the many wonderful hiking trails available in the Midwest region of the United States. Whether you’re looking for a leisurely walk or a challenging hike, there’s something for everyone!
Don’t let a snowy forecast stop you from setting aside time for a enjoying the great outdoors. Head to the woods for a peaceful hike, snow shoeing or cross country skiing.
Turkey Run State Park, Indiana
For picturesque views!
You’ll marvel at the natural geologic wonders of this beautiful park as you hike along its famous trails. Nestled along State Road 47 southwest of Crawfordsville, the park offers the chance to explore deep, sandstone ravines, walk along stands of aged forests, and enjoy the scenic views along Sugar Creek.
Door County, Wisconsin
Sightseeing along frozen Lake Michigan
Many people call Door County the Cape Cod of the Midwest, and that’s no less true in winter, when snow covers the picturesque northeast Wisconsin peninsula. Shops, galleries and inns stay open for visitors who come for cozy shopping and peaceful walks along frozen Lake Michigan beaches. Sleigh rides, trolley tours and wine tastings round out a romantic weekend.
Interstate State Park, Wisconsin and Minnesota
Hardy hikers can snowshoe on fresh white snow
Interstate Park comprises two adjacent state parks on the Minnesota-Wisconsin border, both names Interstate State Park. The staddle the Dalles of the beautiful St. Croix River, a deep basalt gorge with glacial potholes and other rock formations.
Southwest Lake Michigan shore
A stunning winter lighthouse road trip landscape!
Every winter, lake-effect storms leave southwest Michigan’s lighthouses and sand dunes cloaked in ice and snow. From South Haven to New Buffalo and beyond winter is the perfect time to take a road trip along Lake Michigan, especially since the beautiful scenes of winter are in full force now.
Will we continue down the limited path of the mechanical mind?
Or will we tune into ultimate intelligence? The same intelligence that allows blood to flow through our veins, bees to pollinate flowers, birds to fly south, salmon to spawn, whales to migrate, caterpillars to become butterflies, the Earth to rotate, the moon to orbit, and the rest of nature to function perfectly of its own accord?
We have access to nature’s silent message—if we take the time to listen.
In this spellbinding collection, Stillman guides us from the lush forests of the North Cascades, through the sandstone slot canyons of Utah, and into the border country of extreme southern Arizona. In this classroom, we learn not from books, nor words, nor lectures. Wilderness is the school of life, where we learn not from that which thinks—but that which knows.
Nature’s Silent Message suggests the existence of something far greater than what we see on the surface. It’s about breaking through old patterns so that new ones may emerge.
The message is simple and pure, but when you try to define it, it vanishes into thin air. And in that vanishing, you find it again. Like a beautiful butterfly that can never be caught. Try and catch her and she’ll drive you mad, eluding you forever. But learn to fly with her, and all the wonders of the world will be shown, and all the answers to your questions be known.
Best of the Midwest! Hiking - nature - photography 