Castle Rock and White Pines Forest State Parks (Chicago: rated, restrictions)

[Gemini1963]

Hello.

We plan to visit these two parks for the first time later this month. We like walking in the woods with our leashed dog, but I actually do not like walking with her at Starved Rock State Park because there are too many stairs and cliffs / drop-offs. It's too much, especially if you happen to be there on a popular day with lots of others on the trail.

So, I'm writing to ask what the hiking trails are like at these two parks. For those familiar with Starved Rock, are these two parks as up-and-down as Starved Rock, or are there trail options that are mostly flat (or with gradual ascent / descent)?

Thanks for any tips you might be able to give us. Basically, we are trying to decide whether or not to bring the dog on this first trip to those parks.

Thanks again.

[GWoodle]

Originally Posted by Gemini1963

Hello.

We plan to visit these two parks for the first time later this month. We like walking in the woods with our leashed dog, but I actually do not like walking with her at Starved Rock State Park because there are too many stairs and cliffs / drop-offs. It's too much, especially if you happen to be there on a popular day with lots of others on the trail.

So, I'm writing to ask what the hiking trails are like at these two parks. For those familiar with Starved Rock, are these two parks as up-and-down as Starved Rock, or are there trail options that are mostly flat (or with gradual ascent / descent)?

Thanks for any tips you might be able to give us. Basically, we are trying to decide whether or not to bring the dog on this first trip to those parks.

Thanks again.

I suggest you look for a park brochure. Not sure about restrictions for dogs on leash. Trails should be rated from easy or more difficult.

Between these 2 & Starved Rock you could not pick more different parks. Starved Rock is more about the bluffs & it's relation to the river. Castle Rock is about a bluff of limestone. White Pines is mostly about a forested area. As a busy park may have more restrictions for dogs. May be less busy in October depending on when leaves change.

[Chicago-guy]

I went to Castle rock, but just the bluff overlook part.

I can definitely say that it's less crowded than the starved rock area. It seems to be more gradual than starved rock and more leisurely.

[Gemini1963]

Thank you very much, GWoodle and Chicago-guy, for these helpful replies!