Illinois’ Starved Rock State Park to Receive $18 Million in Upgrades

I've been at Starved Rock the last two days, and honestly, after hiking those trails back-to-back, I kept thinking the same thing: Are they ever going to upgrade these trails to be more visible, safe, and easier to navigate?

Well, turns out the answer is yes!  They were listening.

Illinois' most visited state park is officially getting a major upgrade, $18 million improvement project!  Major work will begin this winter.  Starved Rock announced that many bridges, stairways, boardwalks, and walking paths have severely deteriorated over the years and it's finally time for an upgrade.

Hallelujah!  Never thought I'd see the day.  I just wish the boardwalks were a little wider, though.  That's all.

The Illinois Department of Natural Resources says the multi-million-dollar plan will allow them to repair and reopen several closed trails while improving safety, accessibility, and overall trail visibility (yes!!!).  The improvements will also help control erosion and protect sensitive plants from heavy foot traffic, how cool?!

“It’s been 30 years since Starved Rock has benefited from a significant trail improvement project like this” [ IDNR Director Natalie Phelps Finnie]

Many of their popular areas will undergo repairs:

• Tonti Canyon and LaSalle Canyon trail system
• Lower French Canyon River Trail Bridge and Jacob’s Ladder
• Pontiac Canyon
• River Trail
• Campunula Trail and the Lodge Bridge to St. Louis Canyon

The $18M overhaul is part of a much bigger $37M state investment aimed to modernize the facilities at Starved Rock, plus the infrastructures, and installing a new wastewater system.

Don't think Starved Rock is closed, because it's open!  Next time I hike these trails, I can't wait to see all the new upgrades, and be able to see the hiking paths!