9 Spots In Illinois That Will Drop Your Frozen Jaw This Winter
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Laura
Author
I’m sure you know that winter in Illinois is cold, snowy, and harsh at times. However, that shouldn’t get in the way of you getting out and about to explore the state’s stunning landscapes. If you’re ready for an outdoor adventure, read on to learn about nine destinations in The Prairie State that are beyond exceptional to visit in the winter.
1. Starved Rock State Park
Starved Rock State Park, Oglesby, IL 61348, USA
Known for its canyons and waterfalls, Starved Rock State Park looks especially amazing in the winter, particularly when the waterfalls here freeze. The park is open this time of year, and you will be quite intrigued by how all of the formations look with a blanket of snow. These stunning images make it a top destination to enjoy snow in Illinois.
2. Lake Michigan
Lake Michigan, Chicago, IL 60601, USA
When Lake Michigan finally freezes over, it is a thing of beauty. You can get some awesome vantage points in Chicago, Evanston, and Illinois Beach State Park (Zion). It looks especially awesome when chunks of ice are floating around in it. So, if you're wondering what is winter in Illinois like head to Lake Michigan!
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3. Matthiessen State Park
Matthiessen State Park, 2500 IL-178, Oglesby, IL 61348, USA
During winter in Illinois, these rocks have some gorgeous coloring and that is enhanced when contrasted with the white snow. Like its neighboring park, Starved Rock, Matthiessen has some gorgeous rock formations. The main canyon consists of the lower and upper dells, and you might even see some water seeping out along the sandstone walls.
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4. Apple River Canyon
Apple River Canyon State Park, East Canyon Road, Apple River, IL, USA
This park, right up to the Wisconsin border, has some breathtaking features like limestone bluffs and deep ravines. There are plenty of hiking trails and, depending on precipitation, you might see some waterfalls during winter in Illinois.
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5. Colored Sands Forest Preserve
Colored Sands Forest Preserve, 10602 Haas Rd, Rockton, IL 61072, USA
If you're curious to see what winter in Illinois is like in rugged terrain, head to the Colored Sands Forest Preserve. This 30-acre preserve is located in Winnebago County, and, you will find all sorts of threatened plant and animal species. There isn't a lot of hiking involved, but you can walk and see the Sugar River and nature preserve.
6. Little Black Slough Nature Preserve
Little Black Slough Nature Preserve
You might not know that giant cypress trees are hanging out in southern Illinois. These cypresses are some of the most amazing things to see in our state. But you can appreciate just how massive they are when the ground has frozen over like this during winter in Illinois. Many of the buttresses exceed 40 feet in circumference! And some are up to 1,000 years old.
7. Mississippi Palisades State Park
Mississippi Palisades State Park, 16327A IL-84, Savanna, IL 61074, USA
With a fresh blanket of snow in Illinois, the Mississippi is truly incredible to see. These large bluffs once were housing to people as they braved the elements. There are plenty of rugged trails to explore here - up to 15 miles if you are up for it.
8. Rock River
Rock River, United States
The Rock River is a tributary of the Mississippi, but it is a fine river in its own right, too. It stretches 300 miles from Wisconsin to Illinois. There are plenty of opportunities to hike beside it and observe its beauty during winter in Illinois.
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9. Giant City State Park
Giant City State Park is one of many examples of what winter in Illinois is like. This 4,000-acre park will blow you away this winter. The 12,000-year-old sandstone bluffs look stunning when ice is dripping down their sides like this.
Well, what do you think of our list? Feel free to comment and share your favorite Illinois attractions to explore in the winter in the following comments section. If you’re looking for more things to do, I suggest checking out these winter activities in Illinois. if you’d like to spend a weekend away during winter in Illinois, visit Vrbo to check out all its options in the Land of Lincoln.
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More to Explore
Winter In Illinois
Does it snow in Illinois?
Of course, there is snow in Illinois. Here are some examples of some of the worst storms in the state's history:
- The Blizzard of 1979: This epic storm produced about 20 inches of snow in Illinois and lasted 2 days.
- North American Blizzard of 1999: During this major snowfall, temperatures dropped to freezing temperatures which resulted in people being housebound for days.
- The Super Bowl Blizzard: In addition to lasting 3 days, this storm dropped around 20 inches of snow throughout parts of the Prairie State.
- Snowpocalypse/Groundhog Day Blizzard: Along with producing over 20 inches of snow, winds of about 60 miles were reported during this storm.
What are some popular activities to do during winter in Illinois?
Here are some popular activities to do during winter in Illinois:
- Take part in the annual Polar Plunge in Chicago by running into Lake Michigan in the heart of winter.
- Spend the day keeping an eye out for bald eagles and other wildlife when you visit Starved Rock State Park in Oglesby.
- Enjoy the fresh air and spending time in nature when you go cross-country skiing at Arrowhead Golf Course in Wheaton.
- Tap into your creativity when you participate in the yearly Illinois Snow Sculpting Competition in Rockford.