Favorites
(in OPAL’s Opinion)
A question I am often asked about our local outdoor places is “Where are your favorites?” I have resisted answering this for a litany of reasons.
First, distance makes a difference. I live in Peoria County so certain areas are closer to home. Proximity matters on so many levels… ease of access, familiarity, word of mouth, etc.
Second, I am primarily a hiker, backpacker, camper, paddler, skier, and wildlife watcher and not as much into fishing or mountain biking. These days my outdoor explorations are also far more likely to have dogs instead of children joining in the fun.
Third and perhaps the ‘squishiest’ in determining favorites is the ‘it depends’ factor. Who is going? What do they like to do? What is the weather? How much time do we have? Where are we starting? Are nearby après activities important?
And, there are so many more reasons. In short, my favorites are not necessarily someone else’s favorites and for good reasons.
Still, with over 650 local outdoor places gracing our 16-county region, it can be overwhelming to even know where to begin. So, this page is dedicated to some of my favorite local outdoor spots (listed alphabetically) with hope it may help provide a starting spot for your own local outdoor adventuring.
Please keep in mind that these are just my opinions as of today and I am visiting and revisiting places all the time. By tomorrow, I may have a new favorite. If you have a favorite that you think should be included or just need help figuring out where to go, please let me know ([email protected]). I'd be happy to help.
See you outdoors soon~
julie =)
(in OPAL’s Opinion)
A question I am often asked about our local outdoor places is “Where are your favorites?” I have resisted answering this for a litany of reasons.
First, distance makes a difference. I live in Peoria County so certain areas are closer to home. Proximity matters on so many levels… ease of access, familiarity, word of mouth, etc.
Second, I am primarily a hiker, backpacker, camper, paddler, skier, and wildlife watcher and not as much into fishing or mountain biking. These days my outdoor explorations are also far more likely to have dogs instead of children joining in the fun.
Third and perhaps the ‘squishiest’ in determining favorites is the ‘it depends’ factor. Who is going? What do they like to do? What is the weather? How much time do we have? Where are we starting? Are nearby après activities important?
And, there are so many more reasons. In short, my favorites are not necessarily someone else’s favorites and for good reasons.
Still, with over 650 local outdoor places gracing our 16-county region, it can be overwhelming to even know where to begin. So, this page is dedicated to some of my favorite local outdoor spots (listed alphabetically) with hope it may help provide a starting spot for your own local outdoor adventuring.
Please keep in mind that these are just my opinions as of today and I am visiting and revisiting places all the time. By tomorrow, I may have a new favorite. If you have a favorite that you think should be included or just need help figuring out where to go, please let me know ([email protected]). I'd be happy to help.
See you outdoors soon~
julie =)
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