Kaskaskia, Ottawa, Illinois Canyons, Council Overhang 03-29-2018

Today was a dreary day. Comfortable temperature, but no rain.  35 people ventured out for this great 3 waterfall hike. We all met in the Lobby of the Lodge and carpooled to the Ottawa/Kaskaskia parking lot, right off of Rt. 71.

Kaskaskia Canyon

Update on the Adopt a Trail. To date we have collected $5298.00.  We are taking donations for an Interpretive Sign program on a stretch of trail near the Lodge.  There will be 11 signs total, all with historical information.  This trail is fairly flat and are hoping in the future it will be handicap accessible. If interested, call my office at 815-220-7386.  Thank you for your help.

"The Boot"  Use your imagination!  This sandstone formation is right before you turn the corner to Council Overhang.

Going up into Council Overhang

Looking out from the back wall in Council Overhang

Found a few bouquets of Hepatica on a west facing slope going into Ottawa Canyon

Ottawa Canyon.  Yes that is a bit of ice by the waterfall. 

Looking out from behind the Ottawa Canyon waterfall

Kaskaskia Canyon Waterfall

Entering Illinois Canyon, we have to cross the stream 3 times.  Some chose to balance on the log, whereas others that wore taller boots just walked through the stream.

The iconic tree near the end of Illinois Canyon is slowly getting lower.

Spring is coming!  Yippee!  This is the start of Virginia Bluebells.  The park's best display will be be in Illinois Canyon about the first or second week in May (give or take).

I will leave you with this: "There is no such thing as a single-issue struggle because we do not live single-issue lives"