Escape the City: The Best Backpacking Routes near Chicago
Chicago, the Windy City, is known for its impressive skyline, famous deep-dish pizza, and bustling business districts. But what if you want to escape the city for a while and enjoy the great outdoors? Luckily, there are plenty of backpacking routes near Chicago that offer stunning views, challenging terrain, and a chance to reconnect with nature. In this article, we’re going to explore some of the best backpacking routes near Chicago and why they’re worth the trip.
Devil’s Lake State Park
Located in Baraboo, Wisconsin, Devil’s Lake State Park is only a two-hour drive from Chicago. The park boasts over 29 miles of backpacking trails that vary in difficulty, from easy to strenuous. The trails take you through stunning rock formations, lush forests, and along the shore of Devil’s Lake. There are also designated camping areas for backpackers, including the popular North Shore and South Shore campsites.
The Ice Age Trail
The Ice Age Trail is a 1,200-mile backpacking trail that stretches across Wisconsin. If you’re looking for a more extended backpacking trip near Chicago, the Ice Age Trail should be on your list. The trail takes you through old-growth forests, past lakes and rivers, and along glacial formations. There are numerous designated camping areas along the trail, and hikers can choose to tackle as much or as little of the trail as they like.
Starved Rock State Park
Starved Rock State Park is located in LaSalle County, Illinois, just a two-hour drive from Chicago. The park features 13 miles of backpacking trails that wind through stunning canyons, waterfalls, and rock formations. The park also features designated backpacking campsites, including the popular Wildcat Canyon campsite.
The Superior Hiking Trail
The Superior Hiking Trail is a 310-mile backpacking trail that runs along the north shore of Lake Superior in Minnesota. While the trail is a four-hour drive from Chicago, it’s worth the trip for backpackers looking for a challenging and rewarding experience. The trail takes you through boreal forests, along rivers and waterfalls, and past dramatic cliff faces. There are numerous designated camping areas along the trail, and backpackers can tackle as much or as little of the trail as they like.
Conclusion
If you’re looking to escape the hustle and bustle of Chicago and explore the great outdoors, there are plenty of backpacking routes near the city that offer stunning views, challenging terrain, and a chance to reconnect with nature. Devil’s Lake State Park, the Ice Age Trail, Starved Rock State Park, and the Superior Hiking Trail are just a few of the backpacking routes near Chicago that are worth checking out. So, pack your backpack, lace up your hiking boots, and hit the trail!
(Note: Do you have knowledge or insights to share? Unlock new opportunities and expand your reach by joining our authors team. Click Registration to join us and share your expertise with our readers.)
Speech tips:
Please note that any statements involving politics will not be approved.