Starved Rock Offers Guided Hikes

Image courtesy of the Putnam County Record

Starved Rock Lodge offers guided hikes, which are the best way to learn about the park and all it has to offer. With an insider’s point of view, you not only take in the beauty of the natural setting, but you learn about the park history, safe hiking practices and little bits of knowledge that you didn’t know about the geology and cultural history of Starved Rock.

Guided hikes with lunch are offered by Starved Rock Lodge on Saturdays and Sundays from April through November. The cost is $17 per person. The hike is from the lodge to LaSalle and Tonti canyons.

Participants meet in the hotel lobby to pick up a lunch and a souvenir “Starved Rock” backpack. Friendly guides from Starved Rock Lodge will share their knowledge of Starved Rock State Park (named a National Historic Landmark in 1960) and Starved Rock Lodge (named to the National Register of Historic Places in 1985). Hikers will stop for lunch once they reach LaSalle Canyon. After lunch, the hike continues to Eagle Cliff and Lover’s Leap. The tour concludes at the lodge about 2 p.m.

This hike is classified as strenuous. Participants should dress for the weather and wear appropriate (waterproof) shoes. The hike is about 4.5 miles round trip. Lunch includes a choice of turkey, ham or peanut butter and jelly sandwich, a bag of chips, homemade granola bar, a piece of fruit and a bottle of water. Participants should bring extra water in hot weather. Advanced reservations are required. Space is limited.

Source: Putnam County Record