There is truly no place in Missouri quite like Pickle Springs Natural Area. A National Natural Landmark, Pickle Springs is between Ste. Genevieve and Farmington and boasts a 2-mile hiking trail with more than 12 geological features. The natural area is also home to numerous uncommon plant species and plenty of aquatic animals.
The public is invited to celebrate the opening of the new park at Chain of Rocks Bridge April 14 from 2-4 p.m.
Ready to share a dog adventure? Hit the trail with confidence. Hiking is a great way to work out with your dog. With a bit of planning, you can both enjoy the benefits of getting active, in the beauty of nature.
Imagine what it would have been like to have been among the first people to explore some of the natural wonders of the great outdoors. The southern half of Illinois certainly offers a wealth of scenic locations in which that feeling of awe still embraces its visitors. Mighty rivers meander around many of the sites, sculpting some truly magnificent rock formations to view and sometimes climb. Over time, these jewels of nature have been combined with a smattering of man-made structures, adding even more to the region’s fantasy settings.
EDITOR'S NOTE: Scroll to the bottom of this article for Greenberg's photos of these natural and man-made wonders.
While it might be tempting to stay in your nest during the cold winter months, an opportunity to spot visiting bald eagles in their natural habitat can be a great excuse to bundle up and get outdoors. Whether you're looking for organized eagle day events or places to fly solo, you'll find plenty of options for spotting our national symbol in St. Louis.
St. Louis is known for the Gateway Arch, Forest Park and the Mighty Mississippi River, but did you also know it’s also home to a growing network of greenways connecting our region’s parks, rivers, cultural landmarks and communities? No two greenways are alike; some travel through quiet wooded areas, while others connect to shopping districts, neighborhoods, libraries, parks and schools. With 128 miles (and counting) built to date, greenways are great places for families to walk, ride a bike and enjoy some free fresh air.
Here are five fun things to do on a greenway this summer:
When the mild temperatures of spring dissolve into the warm, humid days of a Missouri summer, the idea of running on a greenway, going for a spin on your bike or hiking your favorite dusty trail might seem a little less appealing. Before you resign to spending the dog days of summer parked on the sofa, however, why not turn your attention to a new outdoor activity? If you love the outdoors you’ve no doubt explored the region’s rivers and lakes by foot, by bike or perhaps even by horseback, but a growing trend is making it easier than ever for families to explore our waterways by canoes, kayaks, stand-up paddleboards and rafts.
Tucked along the banks of the Illinois River just south of North Utica, Illinois, is a gem of a state park. Starved Rock State Park features waterfalls, sandstone bluffs and 18 canyons to explore.
Nestled within one of the most beautiful corridors of Missouri, along the Ozark National Scenic Riverway system, is one of Missouri’s most luxurious state parks. Close enough for a day trip, or perfect for a weekend away, this Missouri treasure is worth a visit.