Longing to get away?

Winter fun is waiting for you at Starved Rock Lodge & State Park. New this year are our Winter Wildlife Tours. Hop aboard our trolley and go to Buffalo Rock State Park to see the resident bison (Pebbles, Cocoa & Hope). You’ll also see the Starved Rock area and learn about our rich history. These tours are offered on Saturdays and Sundays (11am departure). Guided winter hikes (also offered on Saturdays and Sundays) combine great stories (from our witty guides) with a walk in the woods. This is the best time of year to see frozen waterfalls, explore snow-covered canyons and panoramic views from Eagle Cliff! Book online at www.starvedrocklodge.com or call (815) 220-7386.

Inside the Lodge, the fireplace is glowing in the Great Hall. There’s a peaceful calm that fills the air here within this historic landmark built so many years ago by the Civilian Conservation Corps. Face masks are required in all public areas. Comfort food carry-outs are available for breakfast, lunch and dinner. The Cafe also has carry outs, fudge and ice cream (made here at the Lodge). Call (815) 220-7321 to place an order.

Sled Dog demos are set for January 17 and February 28 with a brief seminar 30 minutes prior to each run. Event kicks off at 9:00am with demos at 9:30AM, noon and 3PM. This all-outdoor event will require face masks and gloves (or mittens) if you want to pet the dogs. Meet lead musher Jason Hussong and learn about Siberian Huskies and how they run in the Iditerod. This event is free and open to the public.

If you’re a parent, teacher or scout leader looking for something to do with 1st through 5th graders this winter, sign up for a Virtual Hike with a Park Naturalist! Virtual programs are offered Wednesday through Friday in 30, 45 or 60-minutes sessions. Register by emailing [email protected]. Have you ever wondered how Starved Rock’s canyons came to be? Register for a “Geology Hike” on February 27 at 9:00AM and learn about St. Peter Sandstone and much more. Take a trip back in time with retired Geology teacher, Volunteer Naturalist, and Lodge Hike Leader, Joe Jacupcak as he explains the geological secrets and mysteries of Starved rock while you hike along the trail to Wildcat Canyon. You can “Hike with a Historian” on March 13 at 1pm when local author Mark Walczynski leads an informative hike to the top of Starved Rock and through Starved Rock Lodge. Click here to book either of these events.

Celebrate a special occasion or just escape from your home office for a breath of fresh air at Starved Rock State Park. Relax and recharge at Starved Rock Lodge. Yes, there’s WiFi and free parking, but the peace of mind you’ll feel when you reconnect with nature what’s truly amazing.