12-18-2014 Trolley to Council Overhang and walk back to the Lodge

Today's hike we met in the Lodge's lobby at 9:00a.m. as usually and walked out to the trolley on the parking lot and rode a trolley to the East end of the Park.  Kevin drove the trolley and dropped 28 hikers (himself and I included) plus 3 dogs and walked back to the Lodge from there.  We did take a walk to Council Overhang and Ottawa Canyon.

Council Overhang

All of the hikers getting a lift.  Even the 3 dogs

Sign by the parking lot

Use your imagination, yes it is a hiking boot.  Just around the corner is Council Overhang

Council Overhang.  Everyone is listening to Joe talk about how this formation came to be here

Joe enlightening us all

Our newest 4 legged friend "Ellie"

Going into Ottawa Canyon

A fresh sand fall at the base of Ottawa Canyon

Giant rock in Ottawa Canyon it is on the East side

Crossing Rt. 71 on our way back

Once we crossed the road we went up this flight of steps

This is Joe near Hennepin Canyon Overlook

Hennepin Canyon Bridge

a look into Hennepin Canyon.  It's hard to see here, but that white stuff on the branch in the middle really sticks out when your there.  Looks like just that branch got some snow.

The best photo I could get of Hennepin Canyon frozen ice falls

Hidden Canyon, well we think it's Hidden Canyon.  Who knows, maybe it is still hidden.  We stop here and tell everyone about it anyway.

Going down the steps by Owl Canyon. We think 155

New bridge along the river

Bridge going over the creek coming out of LaSalle and Tonti Canyons

Neat Sandstone formation along the river trail

Love those roots!

View of Eagle's Cliff at a resting spot.  If it was warmer we would have stayed longer.

View of Wildcat Canyon from the top (East Overlook)

Upper Wildcat Canyon

And we're back.  Great Hall entrance to the Lodge

The Starved Rock Lodge's Photography Show and Contest is coming up on February 22, 2014.  Here is the link to download an entry form. http://www.starvedrocklodge.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/PHOTO-CONTEST-2015-CONTEST-RULES.pdf  If this doesn't work, and you are still interested, please call my office at 815-220-7386 and I can direct you to it or e-mail you a form.  


Today was a great hike (not that there is really a bad hike).  No wind, moderate temperature, no precipitation, its all good.  

I will leave you with this:  Wherever you may hike or walk, just put one foot in front of the other.  It's all about the experience not the destination.