Tag trekking

PEI Footpaths Float and Climb

Reg Spittle 2 Comments

Our RV “camping” journey continued on Canada’s Prince Edward Island, where we walked on a floating boardwalk that led to the beach dunes at Greenwich National Park. It bobbed like a pedestrian suspension bridge and may be too much for people prone to seasickness.

About the size of Rhode Island, PEI is relatively flat, but the Bonshaw and Strathgartney loop climbed 800 feet during eight miles, traveling over a bridge, down stairs, and along boardwalks. If you like forested walks, this one is for you.

If you are looking for a biking or hiking challenge, the Confederation Trail across PEI will take you 170 miles. You can add many more miles by walking or riding various offshoots. Divert for a break on one of the island’s sandy beaches and take a dip in Atlantic Ocean waters that can reach the 70s. However, while we visited, water temperatures never topped 60.

Crowds Jam Iconic Illinois Park

Reg Spittle 2 Comments

It began as a routine hiking day during our campout along the Illinois River about 80 miles south of Chicago. We headed to nearby Starved Rock State Park to walk a loop trail.

The parking lot at the trailhead made it clear this was an extraordinary place. We arrived mid-morning, but hundreds of cars already filled most of the main lot. Cars were turning toward the overflow lots too.

Then we walked toward the network of trails, where we joined a crowd that reminded me of the Mist Trail in Yosemite National Park.

Just as Sue predicted, the crowd thinned as we explored and climbed the many stairs to trails through the mostly deciduous forest and views of spectacular rock formations. We paused at harrowing viewpoints looking down where Sue later stood.

Starved Rock attracts two million-plus visitors a year, more than many national parks. Our verdict? Get there early if you can. And visit Wildcat Canyon, from above, and below.