Nestled in Starved Rock State Park, among the cornfields of Illinois, lie breathtaking canyons and cliffs adored by photographers and nature enthusiasts. This park is just 84 miles away from Ottawa, which translates to a 1.5-hour drive. The trip is undeniably worth it.
The history of this location is as captivating as its landscapes, with legends shared by locals adding a layer of mystique. Ottawa Name takes you on a virtual journey through this area rich in canyons and cliffs.
The Backstory – The Legend of the Native Americans
The park’s name, Starved Rock, originates from a tale of injustice and vengeance. In 1760, Chief Pontiac of the Ottawa tribe was murdered by an Illiniwek. Seeking revenge, the Ottawa allied with neighboring tribes to attack the Illiniwek. The Illiniwek retreated to the summit of a 125-foot bluff, but their enemies surrounded them. The Illiniwek were trapped, and as hunger claimed their lives, the site earned the name Starved Rock.
Walter’s Resort and Starved Rock State Park
Centuries later, in the 1890s, resourceful entrepreneurs saw potential in the area’s beauty. The scenic lands along the Illinois River inspired the construction of the Starved Rock Hotel. This property, bought by Ferdinand Walter for $15,000, offered not just lodging but a range of attractions, including a dance hall and pool at the park’s base.
Picture the scene: a comfortable hotel, trails winding through canyons and cliffs, water excursions to nearby Matthiessen State Park, and train access. By 1904, visitors could conveniently travel to the resort by rail, with over 160,000 passengers using the ferry service in just four years. By the park’s official opening in 1912, it was welcoming 75,000 visitors annually.
Even with other parks emerging, Starved Rock remains a favorite among locals and tourists alike.
The Starved Rock Experience
Starved Rock State Park is among the most beautiful destinations in Illinois. It boasts 18 canyons with vertical sandstone walls, formed over millennia by glacial meltwater. Visitors can enjoy more than 13 miles of trails, leading to waterfalls, panoramic views, and vibrant flora.
Expect a mix of white and red oaks, white cedars, pines, and maples, all contributing to the park’s natural splendor.
Recreation at Starved Rock
The park offers diverse recreational opportunities, including:
- Camping
- Fishing
- Hiking
- Boating
- Special programs and guided tours
Open year-round, the park also features accommodations and dining options, ensuring a comfortable visit.
Barron Canyon
Located in Algonquin Park, Barron Canyon is a three-hour drive from Ottawa. Visitors are rewarded with stunning granite walls that rise and fall dramatically along the Barron River. This geological marvel is tied to the Ottawa-Bonnechere Graben, a major fault line.
A 1.5-kilometre interpretive trail leads hikers through a pine forest to the canyon’s edge, which plunges 100 metres. The area also offers canoeing opportunities for those seeking to view the canyon from the river. Its distinctive orange hues, caused by lichen, make it a must-see.
Lower Barron Canyon
While less imposing than Barron Canyon, the Lower Barron Canyon is longer and equally picturesque. Once filled with glaciers 8,000 years ago, this canyon now offers a quieter, less-explored experience. Visitors can access it from Algonquin Park or via Black Bay on the Petawawa River.
Why Visit the Canyons?
Even the most skeptical travelers will be awestruck by the dramatic landscapes of these canyons, with their expansive gorges, ridges, and striking rock formations.
Hiking tours and guided excursions cater to all levels, allowing everyone to appreciate the full beauty of these natural wonders. Whether you choose a solo hike or a curated tour, the breathtaking scenery is well worth the journey from Ottawa.