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15 Must-See Midwest National Park Sites
When most people think of National Parks, they often think of the famous sites like Yellowstone, Yosemite, or the Grand Canyon. While those parks out west are truly amazing, the Midwest is also home to its own stunning National Park sites. From rugged mountains to rolling prairies and unique history, the Midwest has something for every park enthusiast. In this blog post, we’ll highlight some of our must-see Midwest National Park sites to add to your family travel bucket list.…
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Hiking The Nature Institute’s Olin Preserve
Based in Godfrey Illinois, the Nature Institute is non-profit land conservation and environmental education organization that aims to foster an appreciation of the natural world. The Institute owns and manages 450 acres of natural areas to provide the public a place to experience the diversity of the Riverbend area. The Olin Nature Preserve is one of these managed areas that provides a wonderful place for all ages to explore and enjoy nature. About Olin Nature Preserve The 294 acres of the Olin…
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Hiking Giant City State Park’s Trillium Trail
Southern Illinois’s Giant City State Park is one of our top picks for kid-friendly hiking trails. Most of the hikes are short, not too steep, and avoid dangerous drop-offs. The trails keep kids interested with unique rock formations, shallow creeks, and small shelter caves. If you are up for a slightly more rugged trek, consider viewing the wildflowers and rugged bluffs by hiking Giant City State Park’s Trillium Trail. Giant City State Park Trillium Trail The Trillium Trail is located…
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Illinois’s Stoneface Hike Really Rocks
Tucked in far southern Illinois, Shawnee National Forest is full of amazing rock formations and scenic views. One of the more unique and lesser known features is Stoneface, or Old Stoneface as locals call it. This rock formation very closely resembles the shape of a face. Read on to learn how to find and hike the Stoneface trail. Illinois Stoneface Hike Reaching the Stoneface Trailhead The trailhead is not well marked. You can find the road to the trailhead off…
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Giant City State Park Post Oak Trail
Giant City State Park is one of our favorite kid-friendly parks to explore in Illinois. The trails are mostly short, easy, and scenic. The Post Oak Trail is the easiest trail at the park. Recent improvements have made the marked 1/3 mile loop ADA accessible and stroller friendly. You can also venture off the paved path for even better overlooks and blufftop views. Post Oak Hiking Trail Distance: 0.3 mile loop on paved path. Longer if you explore unpaved paths.…
