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Robert Starbuck

Primitive woodsman- explorer- pioneer.

I say 5 ⭐️ because regardless of your experience in caves this places is perfect for everyone. The hike to each cave is filled with forest and life. Each cave is so different from the last some being huge others like being in a 2 seater civic,regardless of the size each cave has an amazing array minerals still growing from the ceiling covered in pyrite while the ground beneath you is worn down agate showing many layers of growth and color change. I took this trip with two friends of mine who have never been to any caves at all one who is an adventurer the other curious needless to say both me and them left the place in complete awe. The hike can be fast or slow depending on how you want to explore. The one thing I can say is pictures will not do justice. I ended my hike walking out to the view of the first picture shown on this article, that being said with the sun just getting ready to set I found myself standing observing and taking in the magnitude at the opening of this cave. I highly highly recommend this place to anyone interested at all in seeing a pure and beautiful piece of nature. Keeping in mind this is only Iowa's largest collection of caves in one spot. 👣🎒

Utica/starved rock is just an hours drive for us and a place we like to frequent. But just a mile down the road from starved rock is the entrance to Matthiessen state park, if you want to walk up and down flights of stairs then head to starved rock but if you want your feet on natural ground take the extra ten minute drive to Matthiessen. A small parking lot with a restroom placed near a pond hides a staircase that leads down into the canyons at the beginning of a waterfall. You can follow the canyon along many paths to the lower dells. Be prepared to get wet on this hike so the right shoes and pants will make a big difference.

Arriving for a day trip to waterfall glen couldn't be any easier. Parking is a breeze in multiple parking lots and small roadside lots. Along with hiking running and biking paths waterfall glen offers a series of intricate backwoods hiking in forest and near the river or creek. Some parts can be much more difficult to maneuver but alternative routs are available. Waterfall glen is true nature in its vast diverse landscape you will seldom find yourself coming across other visitors. I highly recommend this trip to anyone family, thrill seekers, first timers and those just interested in a peaceful nature walk.