When people head down to the Utica area, let’s be honest: they are heading to Starved Rock State Park. And while that is a great state park, it’s a real shame they aren’t going to Matthiessen State Park instead. Matthiessen State Park is kind of like Starved Rock’s ugly stepsister. Except that it isn’t ugly. It’s incredibly gorgeous and a lot less crowded than Starved Rock State Park. Here are some incredible shots of what you can see at Matthiessen State Park.

1. There is a wonderful bridge that goes over a canyon, as well as stairs to get to the bottom.
Logan Ward/Flickr
2. There are 9 miles of trails for horseback riding, and even an equestrian campground.
John/Flickr
3. Cascade Falls goes down about 75 feet.
John/Flickr
4. But there are multiple waterfalls throughout the park.
Tripp/Flickr
5. Whether in the spring or the fall, the trees here are gorgeous.
Deepak/Flickr

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6. Though the water is mostly contained, the water sometimes seeps out of the walls.
Lotzman Katzman/Flickr
7. Toads and salamanders scamper around the cool, moist floors of the park, and deer are in abundance in the forested areas.
Brian Jelonek/Flickr
8. Minerals in the water make the rocks extra beautiful.
Wahkeenah/Wikimedia
9. There are 5 miles of well-marked, well-surfaced trails.
Logan Ward/Flickr
10. The canyon, which was formed due to erosion, is about a mile long.
David Wilson/Flickr

Looking to check out more beautiful places? Here is a list to help you get started.

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