EAGLE WATCHING

Every winter, a small stretch of the Illinois River, between Starved Rock State Park and the Illinois Waterways Visitors Center, becomes a temporary condominium for a convocation of eagles! These majestic creatures, with wingspans upward of eight feet in length, pay Starved Rock a visit every year when more northern state’s rivers and lakes begin to freeze.

The Illinois Audubon Society’s Plum Island Sanctuary, located at the base of the Starved Rock Lock, is commonly used by these eagles as a wintering site. The island’s seclusion, sturdy trees and proximity to a non-iced-over section of the river, makes Plum Island particularly desirable real estate for these feathered fliers.

Bald Eagle

During their wintering season, which lasts anywhere between December and March, you’ll often spot these eagles circling above broken ice, trying to find their next meal, or roosting among the island’s tallest trees. To see these eagles for yourself, head to the Lover’s Leap Overlook, the peak of Starved Rock or the aptly named Eagle Cliff Overlook. Be sure to bring a pair of binoculars or a camera with a large telephoto lens. If you left your binoculars at home, don’t fret, Starved Rock Visitors Center also loans out complimentary pairs at the front desk.

STOP 5: LaSalle Canyon

Located about a mile from the Parkman’s Plain parking lot, LaSalle Canyon boasts a wide picturesque canyon and jutting sandstone shelf, suspended 20 feet off the ground. Best of all, your hike to the canyon will wind you along the Illinois River, providing you with a great view of the river and a chance to see some rare birds and foliage.

STOP 6:

Water Cruise or Trolley Tour

If you’re looking to get out of the canyons and take a break from hiking, or if you have a party member looking for a less active excursion, you can reserve a spot aboard Starved Rock’s Eagle One Water Cruise (running Jun. – Oct.) or take a Trolley Tour (running year-round). These narrated tours merge history and sightseeing for a truly one-of-kind view of Starved Rock.

STOP 7: Starved Rock Lodge and Conference Center

After a full day of hiking and sightseeing, cap your trip off with a stay at Starved Rock Lodge and Conference Center. This historic hotel nestled in nature, features a Cliffside panorama of the Illinois River, an indoor pool complex, on-site restaurants and a beautiful rustic lounge. You can choose from historic lodge accommodations, spacious hotel rooms or charming log cabins.

Overlooks

Starved Rock’s Canyons and Overlooks provide wonderful views of towering sandstone cliffs, lush vegetation and the mighty Illinois River. Photo-worthy sites like Council Bluffs Overhang, a massive sandstone alcove once used by Indigenous tribes for ceremonies, and the titular Starved Rock, once home to the French explorer’s Fort Saint Louis des Illinois, now offer inspiring panoramic views of the river valley below.

Ice Falls

There are more than a dozen waterfalls at Starved Rock State Park, many of which transform into beautiful, natural ice sculptures as winter tightens its grip on LaSalle County. According to the Starved Rock staff, some of the more notable (and stunning) ice waterfalls can be found in St. Louis, French, Wildcat, Ottawa and Kaskaskia canyons.

Dogs

Many blogs cite Starved Rock as one of the top destinations for hiking with your dog in the Midwest. The River Trail, that’s conveniently located off the recently restored Parkman’s Plain lot, is one of the more popular canine hikes. The dogfriendly outdoor Veranda at the Lodge even offers a special “doggy menu”. Dogs must be leashed inside the park.