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Explore Scenic Views and Lost History at Missouri’s Castlewood State Park’s River Scene Trail
The area around Castlewood State Park has been a popular escape for St. Louisans for decades. Amid the quiet beauty and wildlife here now, it’s hard to imagine that the park was once the site of a bustling resort that peaked in popularity after World War I. Trains delivered visitors by the thousands to enjoy the outdoor activities centered on the Meramec River beaches. A variety of hotels and restaurants catered to travelers. Taverns and dance clubs bustled during the…
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A Walk with River Views on Mississippi Rivers Greenway at Jefferson Barracks in St. Louis
Length: 1.6 miles each way Difficulty: 1 out of 5, Paved whole length Scenic Value: 3 out of 5, Nice river views Great Rivers Greenway is a public agency in St. Louis with a mission to make the St. Louis region a more vibrant place to live, work and play by developing a regional network of greenways. So far the agency has developed over 125 miles of beautiful greenways and amenities throughout the St. Louis area. I posted here about…
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Exploring Pomona Natural Bridge & Quetil Trail near Alto Pass, Illinois
What do you do when your are feeling like winter is dragging on and you get a sunny 50 degree day in February? If you are a Midwest Nomad, you go hike! We decided to head out Saturday morning to combine two short and easy trails near Alto Pass, Illinois into one morning adventure. These trails are both located in the scenic and diverse Shawnee National Forest boundaries. Both of these trails were new hikes for us which just adds…
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Take a Trail Through Time at Pickle Springs Natural Area in Missouri
If you are looking for a short and family friendly trail that still packs a scenic punch then Pickle Springs Natural Area in southeastern Missouri is a must see. Located about an hour south of St. Louis, The Trail Through Time path is a quick 2 mile loop hike through a variety of rugged and interesting geographical features. Quick being a retaliative term when hiking with kids and so much to discover! When we last hiked the trail over the…
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Family Fun in St. Joseph, Michigan – What to See, Do, and Eat with Kids
One of the destinations I get asked about the most is our yearly trip to St. Joseph, Michigan. From St. Louis, it is less than a 5.5 hour drive to this amazing family friendly vacation spot. Since we are already up north in Chicago at least once a year to visit family, it is easy for us to tack on a couple more days for a mini beach getaway. St, Joseph features so many beautiful beaches, great food, and numerous…