Nature

Take a Unique Adventure On Illinois’s Best Kayaking Trail

This scenic kayak trail in Illinois offers incredible views without the tough climb. Here’s why it’s better than a hike.

The Small-Town State Park in Illinois Locals Want to Keep to Themselves

Discover a peaceful small-town state park in Illinois that locals love for its quiet trails, scenic views, and hidden gem appeal.

3 Picture-Perfect Nature Trails in Illinois for a Spring Hike

Explore three picture-perfect nature trails in Illinois for a spring hike, featuring wildflowers, scenic views, and unforgettable outdoor escapes.

Don’t Attempt This One Hike in Illinois Unless You’re Up for a Challenge

From poison ivy to hilly terrain, the Godwin Trail can be difficult. At almost 20 miles, this is a lengthy hike in the Shawnee National Forest in southern Illinois.

Find 4 Bucket-List-Level Views in Illinois Without Needing to Be an Expert Hiker

Your Illinois bucket list should include these unexpected views with little hiking required.

This Scenic Illinois Hike Is Even Better in the Winter

If you’re headed to Savanna, Illinois, for the Mississippi Palisade State Park, be sure to hike the Great River Trail this winter.

This Heavenly 6-Mile Trail in Illinois’ National Forest Is Worth the Effort

Go on a spectacular hike and stay in a treehouse within a national forest on this unforgettable Illinois adventure.

White Pines Forest State Park Is an Underrated Illinois Park That Will Surprise You This Fall

Discover fall scenery, hiking trails, and a dinner theater at White Pines Forest State Park in Illinois.

5 Underrated National Forest Hikes in Illinois That Rival National Parks

Discover five hidden gem hiking trails in this southern Illinois national forest that offer stunning views and memorable experiences.

You Have To Experience This Riverfront Hike in Illinois for Yourself

Sentry Bluff Trail combines natural beauty and adventure in the heart of southern Illinois.

4 Best State Park Beaches in Illinois To Visit To Close Out Summer

Between boating, swimming, and fishing, these Illinois state park beaches are the perfect way to say goodbye to summer.

Walking This 1-Mile Preserved Section of the Trail of Tears in Illinois Changes You

Hamburg Hill is a 1-mile segment of the Trail Of Tears National Historic Trail in Illinois. This preserved segment of the trail allows visitors to walk in the footsteps of history.

Chicago Has a Beach That Looks Like It Belongs in the Mediterranean

Oak Street Beach in Chicago is the perfect way to spend a weekend on the water.

My Mom and I Watch Deer at This Illinois Forest Preserve (It Never Gets Old)

It's practically guaranteed that you'll see at least one deer at Fullersburg Woods Forest Preserve in Oak Brook, Illinois.

Stroll Then Swim on This Beach Hike in Illinois That’s Perfect for Summer

Explore more than 18 miles of epic waterfront on the Chicago Lakefront Trail in Illinois.

We Did the Research, This Is Officially the Strangest Hiking Trail Name in Illinois

At Ferne Clyffe State Park, the Goreville Boy Scout Trail is a difficult path to take. But its bizarre name is what gets hikers thinking.

This Is the Quietest Part of This Illinois State Park

Get lost in nature on the Sunset and Sleepy Hollow Trail Loop in White Pines Forest State Park in Illinois.

We Love Our National Parks, but Giant City State Park in Illinois Is Just as Adventurous

Discover rock climbing, horseback riding, and more at Giant City State Park in Illinois.

Swim at This Iconic Crystal Clear Swimming Hole in Illinois for the Ultimate Outdoor Fun

Summer will be here before we know it, so add a trip to the crystal clear Lake Le-Aqua-Na for the ultimate outdoor fun in the sun.

This Canyon Hike Is One of Illinois’ Most Scenic Trails

This easy canyon hike at Starved Rock State Park in Illinois is full of beauty, but it doesn't require a lot of physical exertion.