Guided Hike at Starved Rock and Matthiessen Park

Explore Illinois’ Natural Beauty with a Guided Hike at Starved Rock and Matthiessen Park

For those seeking a peaceful escape into nature, the Guided Hike at Starved Rock and Matthiessen State Parks offers an engaging experience at a reasonable $45 per person. With an approximate duration of 8 to 12 hours, this tour combines light hiking with scenic views, making it ideal for adults aged 16+. The adventure begins early, with a start time of 8:00 am, and includes pickup and mobile ticket options for added convenience.

We like how this tour balances exploration with relaxation — you’ll explore stunning canyons, waterfalls, and bridges in Starved Rock State Park, then continue to Matthiessen State Park for more scenic walks. The tour concludes with a group dinner at Starved Rock Lodge Lounge, where reflections and stories are shared, followed by souvenir shopping and ice cream. This experience suits those looking for a mental reset amidst nature, with practical inclusions like bottled water and light snacks.

Key Points

• Affordable guided day trip focused on nature, waterfalls, and scenic canyons
• Includes guided exploration of Starved Rock and Matthiessen State Parks
• Light hiking, with around 4 hours of walking, suitable for ages 16 and up
• Dinner at Starved Rock Lodge Lounge is part of the experience (meals not included)
• Includes bottled water and snacks; opportunity for photo sessions
• Free cancellation allows flexibility for weather or schedule changes

Starting the Adventure at Starved Rock State Park

The tour kicks off at Starved Rock State Park, located in Oglesby, Illinois. The guide leads you through scenic canyons, waterfalls, and bridges, showcasing the park’s dramatic rock formations. Visitors can expect to capture stunning photos of the landscape, which is a highlight of this stop. The three-hour exploration allows ample time to appreciate the natural beauty and take photographs.

Following the exploration, the group winds down with an early dinner at Starved Rock Lodge Lounge. While meals are not included, the setting provides a peaceful environment to share stories and reflect on the day. This part of the tour emphasizes relaxation after a scenic hike, creating a balanced experience between activity and rest.

Discovering the Waterfalls and Canyons at Matthiessen State Park

After leaving Starved Rock, the tour proceeds to Matthiessen State Park for an additional two-hour exploration. Once again, the focus is on scenic canyons, waterfalls, and bridges. Visitors can expect to see more waterfalls and enjoy the park’s diverse geological features. This stop complements the initial experience by offering different views and photo opportunities.

Since admission to both parks is free, the tour emphasizes the natural scenery without additional costs. The two-hour walk provides a relaxed pace for appreciating the landscape and capturing memorable images with personal devices.

Practical Details: Meeting Point and Schedule

The tour starts promptly at 8:00 am from Starved Rock State Park. The meeting point in Oglesby, Illinois simplifies access, and the experience is private, meaning only your group participates. The end point is at Starved Rock Lodge Restaurant, where a late lunch concludes the tour.

Included in the package are water and light snacks, ensuring hydration and energy for the day. Participants can also enjoy pictures and videos taken with their own devices during the hikes. The tour is designed to be accessible for most, with service animals allowed and most travelers able to participate.

The Group Dinner at Starved Rock Lodge Lounge

The day winds down with a group dinner at the Starved Rock Lodge Lounge. Although meals are not included in the tour price, this relaxed gathering offers a perfect chance to share reflections and enjoy the tranquil ambiance of the lodge. It’s an ideal way to decompress after a day of light hiking and exploration, making the experience more social and memorable.

Flexibility and Weather Considerations

One of the advantages of this tour is the free cancellation policy—guests can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. The experience is dependent on good weather, and if canceled due to poor conditions, alternative dates or refunds are offered. This flexibility is valuable for planning around Illinois’ unpredictable weather.

Unique Features and What Sets This Tour Apart

This guided tour stands out for its personalized experience, being private for your group. The combination of two parks offers diverse scenery—canyons, waterfalls, and bridges—without the need to pay extra entrance fees. The light snacks and bottled water included keep the focus on relaxation rather than logistics, and the photo opportunities are plentiful.

Plus, the early start and late finish give enough time for a thorough exploration while ending comfortably at the lodge for dinner. The guided nature walks help visitors appreciate the natural features while keeping the pace manageable.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour the Most?

This experience is perfect for adults seeking a day in nature without strenuous hiking. It’s well-suited for those interested in photography, reflection, or simply enjoying scenic landscapes. The private tour format and relaxed schedule make it a good choice for families, small groups, or individuals wanting a peaceful outdoor experience.

While designed for those 16 and older, the light nature of the hikes means that most physically capable individuals will find it accessible. People looking for a guided, hassle-free day trip with scenic views and a social component will appreciate this outing.

Final Thoughts on the Guided Hike at Starved Rock and Matthiessen Park

This tour offers an affordable, scenic, and relaxed way to explore some of Illinois’ most beautiful parks. The guided exploration of Starved Rock and Matthiessen State Parks provides memorable views of waterfalls and canyons, balanced with opportunities for rest and reflection. The group dinner at Starved Rock Lodge enhances the experience by fostering camaraderie and storytelling.

While it doesn’t include meals, guests can enjoy the tranquil setting of the lodge at the end of their day. The free cancellation policy adds peace of mind, and the private group format makes it a personalized outdoor adventure.

This tour is a solid choice for nature lovers who want a guided, light hiking experience with plenty of photo opportunities and time to unwind in a beautiful setting.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included in this tour?
Pickup is offered, making it convenient to start your day at the designated meeting point in Oglesby, Illinois.

How long is the total hike?
The total hiking time is approximately 4 hours, spread across two parks, with manageable walking at a relaxed pace.

Are meals included?
No, meals are not included but the tour concludes with a group dinner at Starved Rock Lodge Lounge where guests can purchase food.

What should I bring for the hike?
Bring your camera, water, light snacks, and comfortable footwear suitable for walking on natural trails.

Can I cancel if the weather is poor?
Yes, free cancellation is available 24 hours in advance. If canceled due to bad weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Is this tour suitable for children?
This tour is designed for adults aged 16+. It’s suitable for most physically capable individuals but not specifically tailored for young children.