‘DOING THE RIGHT THINGS RIGHT’

STARVED ROCK LODGE

1 Lodge Lane, Oglesby 815-667-4211 www.starvedrocklodge.com

| Lodgings |

‘DOING THE RIGHT THINGS RIGHT’

[Starved Rock Lodge offers year-round, award-winning entertainment, lodging [Story by Louise Treeny • Photos provided by Starved Rock Lodge

If you think you’ve seen it all at Starved Rock Lodge, think again.

There’s always something new given the changing of the seasons — and even those don’t look the same year to year. Fall colors are different given rainfall and climate, temperatures affect the formation of the ice falls, and even the variety of wildlife can look different.

“November is underrated for hiking,” Kathy Casstevens, marketing manager, says. “The days are warm and the leaves linger a little longer to make a hike from the Lodge to La Salle, St. Louis, Wildcat or French canyon a breathtaking way to spend an afternoon.”

The Lodge won finest lodging and live music in Starved Rock Country’s Finest readers’ choice awards. It also won one of the finest retail/shopping options, and the park itself won finest hiking.

“We are and always will be the only lodging in Starved Rock State Park,” Casstevens notes. “It’s all about where you stay for the best experience.”

The Lodge and its surrounding cabins were built in the 1930s by the Civilian Conservation Corps. With breathtaking views, areas for hanging out in the Great Hall (particularly next to the cozy two-sided fireplace), a restaurant onsite and proximity to the park’s trails, the Lodge has become a go-to spot for family celebrations, corporate retreats, weddings and more.

Also offered are many family-friendly activities: everything from live music to guided hikes to ghost tours. Casstevens often fields the question: “Why pay for a guide when we can hike for free?” She points to two main reasons: First of all, you won’t get lost. Second, the guides are passionate about the land and can provide insight on its cultural history, geology and more. “They are a wealth of knowledge,” sums up Casstevens.

Winter is a quieter season at Starved Rock Lodge, offering a sense of peace and quiet for guests. People come for relaxation and that serene feeling of being surrounded by nature, according to Casstevens. “It’s really wonderful to be the first person on the trail” after a snowfall, Casstevens says.

And when it’s time for a meal, head to the dining room for a homemade meal. Locally sourced prime rib is a Saturday favorite, and you can find craft beer on tap any day. Each season, the Lodge unveils new witty, seasonal cocktails. “Here’s Johnny,” for example, is described as, “Johnny Appleseed, that is! Work’s over, so come play with this classic margarita that features Patrón and locally sourced apple cider!”

Casstevens takes pride in the longstanding sense of tradition that you’ll find at Starved Rock Lodge. “There’s always something new to see, but it’s always the same,” she says, referring to the traditions, the views, the ambiance.

“Doing the right things right is very important.”