{"id":4735,"date":"2019-09-17T19:20:12","date_gmt":"2019-09-17T19:20:12","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/v2.mappyhour.org\/blog\/?p=4735"},"modified":"2019-09-23T17:09:37","modified_gmt":"2019-09-23T17:09:37","slug":"the-chicago-explore-more-guide","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/mappyhour.org\/blog\/2019\/09\/the-chicago-explore-more-guide\/","title":{"rendered":"The Chicago Explore More Guide"},"content":{"rendered":"<h2><em>10 Outdoor Adventures in and Around Chicago<\/em><\/h2>\n<p>Here we outline our favorite ways to enjoy the outdoors in and around Chicago. Our partner, <a href=\"http:\/\/www.thenorthface.com\">The North Face<\/a>, is helping us bring this guide to life with <a href=\"https:\/\/mappyhour.org\/blog\/2019\/09\/mappy-hour-teams-up-with-the-north-face-to-inspire-local-exploration\/\">The Chicago Explore More Challenge<\/a>, which starts September 26, 2019 and runs through August 24, 2020.<\/p>\n<p>Read on to find out how you can win prizes, find new adventure buddies, and most importantly, get outside.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h2><strong>The Explore More Challenge<\/strong><\/h2>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/mappyhour.org\/blog\/2019\/09\/mappy-hour-teams-up-with-the-north-face-to-inspire-local-exploration\/\">The Explore More Challenge<\/a>, presented by The North Face, is a multi-month challenge that rewards you for going outside with new Mappy Hour friends. Each participating chapter will launch a guide with 10 challenges (see below) that can range from exploring your city to finding further afield outdoor gems in your state. Each adventure, which will be selected by your chapter leaders, will hold a point value. Mappy Hour members will compete to complete the challenges (aka go outside!). The North Face is further supporting this new program with prizes for all chapter members who complete the challenge and an even bigger prize for the first person to complete it in each chapter!<\/p>\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator\" \/>\n<h2><strong>The Rules: Chicago Explore More Challenge<\/strong><\/h2>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Our challenge dates run from September 26, 2019 to August 24, 2020. You can complete adventures any time between those dates.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li>Reach 60 points to complete The Explore More Challenge. Your reward: a prize from The North Face. Bonus prize if you complete all the adventures on the list. And the first person to reach 60 points will take home The North Face grand prize.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li>Complete each of the Explore More adventures as many times as you\u2019d like, however, you must explore a new location to earn points a second time. (ex: Adventure 7: +5 points for visiting Matthiessen State Park. +5 more for visiting Illinois Beach State Park)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li>We\u2019ll have a logbook at every Mappy Hour event at The North Face, with locations in Wicker Park and on Michigan Avenue, this year. You just have to come to Mappy Hour to \u201csign in\u201d. Bring a picture of yourself doing the challenge and your chapter leaders will sign off in the logbook.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li>We know that sometimes you miss a Mappy Hour \u2013 no worries, you can do an adventure in October and then sign in the following March.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Our list features a variety of outdoorsy adventures \u2013 from biking to climbing to camping within city limits \u2013 and are all adaptable no matter your experience level.<\/p>\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator\" \/>\n<h2><strong>Adventure 1: Climb in Chicago<\/strong><\/h2>\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure id=\"attachment_4744\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-4744\" style=\"width: 800px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-4744\" src=\"https:\/\/mappyhour.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/09\/Brooklyn-Boulders-Chicago_5-Credit_-Nikko-Salgado.jpg\" alt=\"Rock Climbing in Chicago\" width=\"800\" height=\"500\" \/><figcaption id=\"caption-attachment-4744\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">The Challenge: Climb in Chicago (5 Points).<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<p>Sure, it\u2019s a spectacular view from the top of the Sears Tower. But how about reaching new heights by climbing some of Chicago\u2019s tallest rock walls and bouldering areas around the city. If you\u2019re looking to climb indoors, check out <a href=\"https:\/\/firstascentclimbing.com\/\">First Ascent<\/a> or <a href=\"https:\/\/brooklynboulders.com\/chicago\/\">Brooklyn Boulders<\/a>, or head downtown to the Maggie Daley Park to climb in the heart of the city. For a more unique climbing experience, check out some of Chicago\u2019s hidden climbing gems, like the old ore walls at <a href=\"https:\/\/www.rei.com\/blog\/climb\/climbing-wall-opens-at-steelworkers-park\">Steelworkers Park<\/a> or The North Face\u2019s new boulder area in <a href=\"https:\/\/www.thenorthface.com\/about-us\/news\/2019\/new-heights-in-chicago.html\">Palmisano Park<\/a> on Chicago\u2019s Southwest Side.<\/p>\n<h3>The Challenge:<\/h3>\n<p>Climb on a wall of your choice within city limits. (5 points)<\/p>\n<p><strong>Pro Tip: <\/strong>Various meetups host group climbs throughout the week, including <a href=\"https:\/\/www.instagram.com\/sendingincolor\/?hl=en\">Sending in Color<\/a> (a group dedicated to diversifying the outdoors) and First Ascent\u2019s <a href=\"https:\/\/www.instagram.com\/p\/Bwnvgk6jzf7\/\">#WomenCrushWednesday<\/a>.<\/p>\n<h2><strong>Adventure 2: Paddle the Chicago River<\/strong><\/h2>\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure id=\"attachment_4778\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-4778\" style=\"width: 576px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-4778\" src=\"https:\/\/mappyhour.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/09\/Paddling-in-Chicago-768x1024.jpg\" alt=\"Paddling on the Chicago River\" width=\"576\" height=\"768\" srcset=\"https:\/\/mappyhour.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/09\/Paddling-in-Chicago-768x1024.jpg 768w, https:\/\/mappyhour.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/09\/Paddling-in-Chicago-400x533.jpg 400w, https:\/\/mappyhour.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/09\/Paddling-in-Chicago-225x300.jpg 225w, https:\/\/mappyhour.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/09\/Paddling-in-Chicago-696x928.jpg 696w, https:\/\/mappyhour.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/09\/Paddling-in-Chicago-315x420.jpg 315w, https:\/\/mappyhour.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/09\/Paddling-in-Chicago.jpg 1000w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 576px) 100vw, 576px\" \/><figcaption id=\"caption-attachment-4778\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Paddle the Chicago River (10 points).<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<p>Drifting through the city on the Chicago River is one of the most beautiful ways to see Chi-town. For one, you get to view the towering skyscrapers and the city\u2019s architecture without elbowing your way through crowds. And second, you have the chance to paddle beyond downtown (like the North Branch of the Chicago River) to get an up-close-look at wildlife and green space that sits on the outskirts. <a href=\"https:\/\/rootsrated.com\/stories\/6-best-places-to-paddle-around-chicago\">This list is a great place to start<\/a> if you are new to the Chicago paddling scene.<\/p>\n<h3>The Challenge:<\/h3>\n<p>Paddle the Chicago River on a kayak, canoe or SUP. (10 points)<\/p>\n<p><strong>Pro Tip:<\/strong> We recommend renting from <a href=\"http:\/\/www.chicagoriverpaddle.com\/\">Chicago River Canoe and Kayak<\/a> if you want to paddle the more remote\/natural North Branch and <a href=\"https:\/\/kayakchicago.com\/\">Kayak Chicago<\/a> if you want city views.<\/p>\n<h2><strong>Adventure 3: Explore the Chicago Forest Preserves<\/strong><\/h2>\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure id=\"attachment_4745\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-4745\" style=\"width: 768px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-4745\" src=\"https:\/\/mappyhour.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/09\/Des-Plaines-River-Trail_Catherine-Chevalier-Woods_Credit_-Forest-Preserves-of-Cook-County-1-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"Runner in the Chicago Forest Preserves\" width=\"768\" height=\"512\" srcset=\"https:\/\/mappyhour.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/09\/Des-Plaines-River-Trail_Catherine-Chevalier-Woods_Credit_-Forest-Preserves-of-Cook-County-1-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/mappyhour.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/09\/Des-Plaines-River-Trail_Catherine-Chevalier-Woods_Credit_-Forest-Preserves-of-Cook-County-1-400x267.jpg 400w, https:\/\/mappyhour.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/09\/Des-Plaines-River-Trail_Catherine-Chevalier-Woods_Credit_-Forest-Preserves-of-Cook-County-1-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/mappyhour.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/09\/Des-Plaines-River-Trail_Catherine-Chevalier-Woods_Credit_-Forest-Preserves-of-Cook-County-1-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/mappyhour.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/09\/Des-Plaines-River-Trail_Catherine-Chevalier-Woods_Credit_-Forest-Preserves-of-Cook-County-1-696x464.jpg 696w, https:\/\/mappyhour.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/09\/Des-Plaines-River-Trail_Catherine-Chevalier-Woods_Credit_-Forest-Preserves-of-Cook-County-1-1068x712.jpg 1068w, https:\/\/mappyhour.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/09\/Des-Plaines-River-Trail_Catherine-Chevalier-Woods_Credit_-Forest-Preserves-of-Cook-County-1-630x420.jpg 630w, https:\/\/mappyhour.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/09\/Des-Plaines-River-Trail_Catherine-Chevalier-Woods_Credit_-Forest-Preserves-of-Cook-County-1.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px\" \/><figcaption id=\"caption-attachment-4745\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Explore the Chicago Forest Preserves (5 points).<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<p>The <a href=\"https:\/\/fpdcc.com\/\">Forest Preserves of Cook County<\/a> (FPCC) give outdoorsy Chicagoans access to 70,000 acres, more than 200 miles of paved trails, and more than 100 miles of unpaved trails. There are 24 dedicated Illinois Nature Preserves in total, and each offer a different flavor of outdoor adventure and native wildlife. Take a bike ride through La Baugh Woods on the <a href=\"https:\/\/fpdcc.com\/places\/trails\/north-branch-trail-system\/\">The North Branch Trail System<\/a> which offers ~20 miles of paved and unpaved routes. Or hike (or mountain bike) in the hilliest section of the city on the <a href=\"https:\/\/fpdcc.com\/places\/trails\/palos-trail-system\/\">Palos Trail System<\/a> that winds through rolling hills and deep ravines. Don\u2019t forget to hit the trails in winter \u2013 you\u2019ll love the solitude.<\/p>\n<h3>The Challenge:<\/h3>\n<p>Hike, bike, snowshoe (or choose your own adventure) in the Chicago Forest Preserves. (5 points)<\/p>\n<p><strong>Pro Tip: <\/strong>Check out the <a href=\"https:\/\/map.fpdcc.com\/#\">FPCC interactive map<\/a> online which helps you find trails, research the preserves, and keep track of where you are while you hike\/bike\/etc.<\/p>\n<h2><strong>Adventure 4: Take Public Transit to the Trailhead<\/strong><\/h2>\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure id=\"attachment_4746\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-4746\" style=\"width: 512px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-4746\" src=\"https:\/\/mappyhour.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/09\/Indiana-Dunes-National-Park-Ly-co-ki-we-Trail_Credit_-NPS-Photo-1-683x1024.jpg\" alt=\"Hiking near Chicago\" width=\"512\" height=\"768\" srcset=\"https:\/\/mappyhour.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/09\/Indiana-Dunes-National-Park-Ly-co-ki-we-Trail_Credit_-NPS-Photo-1-683x1024.jpg 683w, https:\/\/mappyhour.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/09\/Indiana-Dunes-National-Park-Ly-co-ki-we-Trail_Credit_-NPS-Photo-1-400x600.jpg 400w, https:\/\/mappyhour.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/09\/Indiana-Dunes-National-Park-Ly-co-ki-we-Trail_Credit_-NPS-Photo-1-200x300.jpg 200w, https:\/\/mappyhour.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/09\/Indiana-Dunes-National-Park-Ly-co-ki-we-Trail_Credit_-NPS-Photo-1-768x1152.jpg 768w, https:\/\/mappyhour.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/09\/Indiana-Dunes-National-Park-Ly-co-ki-we-Trail_Credit_-NPS-Photo-1-696x1044.jpg 696w, https:\/\/mappyhour.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/09\/Indiana-Dunes-National-Park-Ly-co-ki-we-Trail_Credit_-NPS-Photo-1-280x420.jpg 280w, https:\/\/mappyhour.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/09\/Indiana-Dunes-National-Park-Ly-co-ki-we-Trail_Credit_-NPS-Photo-1.jpg 1000w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 512px) 100vw, 512px\" \/><figcaption id=\"caption-attachment-4746\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Hang out at a Local Nature Center (5 points).<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<p>Many <a href=\"https:\/\/www.backpacker.com\/trips\/chicago-top6-dayhikes\">Chicago-area day hikes<\/a> are accessible by train. In fact, Mappy Hour CHI Chapter Leader Erica <a href=\"https:\/\/www.chicagotribune.com\/travel\/ct-trav-day-hikes-from-chicago-0519-story.html\">wrote a whole story<\/a> in the Chicago Tribune about how to do it. Whether you\u2019re taking the Blue Line west out to the Cumberland stop to reach the Des Plaines River Trail, or hopping on the Metra Union Pacific North line to <a href=\"https:\/\/www.openlands.org\/places\/openlands-lakeshore-preserve\/\">The Openlands Lakeshore Preserve<\/a>, trains are a sustainable way reach the trailhead.<\/p>\n<h3>The Challenge:<\/h3>\n<p>Use Chicago\u2019s public transportation to get to the trail (The \u201cL\u201d, Metra, Divvy). (5 points)<\/p>\n<p><strong>Pro Tip: <\/strong>If you\u2019re hiking on the weekend, make sure to check out the Metra train schedules which have less-frequent trains running on the weekends.<\/p>\n<h2><strong>Adventure 5: Camp in the City<\/strong><\/h2>\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure id=\"attachment_4782\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-4782\" style=\"width: 692px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-4782\" src=\"https:\/\/mappyhour.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/09\/Camping-Near-Chicago-922x1024.jpg\" alt=\"Camp near Chicago\" width=\"692\" height=\"768\" srcset=\"https:\/\/mappyhour.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/09\/Camping-Near-Chicago-922x1024.jpg 922w, https:\/\/mappyhour.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/09\/Camping-Near-Chicago-400x444.jpg 400w, https:\/\/mappyhour.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/09\/Camping-Near-Chicago-270x300.jpg 270w, https:\/\/mappyhour.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/09\/Camping-Near-Chicago-768x853.jpg 768w, https:\/\/mappyhour.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/09\/Camping-Near-Chicago-696x773.jpg 696w, https:\/\/mappyhour.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/09\/Camping-Near-Chicago-378x420.jpg 378w, https:\/\/mappyhour.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/09\/Camping-Near-Chicago.jpg 1000w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 692px) 100vw, 692px\" \/><figcaption id=\"caption-attachment-4782\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Camp in the city (15 points).<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<p>Believe it or not, there are a number of campgrounds right in Chicago\u2019s backyard. The Forest Preserves of Cook County have <a href=\"https:\/\/fpdcc.com\/things-to-do\/camping\/\">5 dedicated campgrounds<\/a> located throughout the preserves. All campsites can be reserved in advance and a handful of <a href=\"https:\/\/fpdcc.com\/places\/locations\/camp-reinberg\/#small\">the campgrounds even offer cabins<\/a> with creature-comfort amenities.<\/p>\n<p>If you\u2019re feeling really adventurous, take on Chicago\u2019s first and only backpacking route: <a href=\"https:\/\/outerbelt.org\/\">The Outerbelt<\/a>. Curious what it\u2019s like to backpack here? Check out <a href=\"https:\/\/www.hikingproject.com\/trail\/7066013\/the-chicago-outerbelt-route\">The Outerbelt map<\/a> or read about the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.chicagotribune.com\/columns\/mary-schmich\/ct-met-schmich-thru-hike-20180529-story.html\">inaugural adventure<\/a>.<\/p>\n<h2>The Challenge:<\/h2>\n<p>Pitch your tent at a Forest Preserve campground for a night or two. (15 points)<\/p>\n<p><strong>Pro Tip:<\/strong> You can <a href=\"https:\/\/fpdcc.com\/things-to-do\/camping\/camping-gear-rental\/\">rent out camping gear<\/a> from the preserves if you don\u2019t have your own (or need a few extras).<\/p>\n<p><strong>Pro Tip #2:<\/strong> You don\u2019t want to miss this amazing <a href=\"http:\/\/www.fotfp.org\/event\/3rd-annual-beer-in-the-woods\/?gclid=EAIaIQobChMIlsOhoMvU5AIVAa_ICh2eIw2kEAAYASAAEgIep_D_BwE\">Beer in the Woods<\/a> event (going on its 3rd year)!<\/p>\n<h2><strong>Adventure 6: Bike to the Chicago Botanic Gardens<\/strong><\/h2>\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure id=\"attachment_4779\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-4779\" style=\"width: 768px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-4779\" src=\"https:\/\/mappyhour.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/09\/Biking-in-Chicago-1-1024x1024.jpg\" alt=\"Biking in Chicago\" width=\"768\" height=\"768\" srcset=\"https:\/\/mappyhour.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/09\/Biking-in-Chicago-1-1024x1024.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/mappyhour.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/09\/Biking-in-Chicago-1-scaled-400x400.jpg 400w, https:\/\/mappyhour.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/09\/Biking-in-Chicago-1-scaled-100x100.jpg 100w, https:\/\/mappyhour.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/09\/Biking-in-Chicago-1-150x150.jpg 150w, https:\/\/mappyhour.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/09\/Biking-in-Chicago-1-300x300.jpg 300w, https:\/\/mappyhour.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/09\/Biking-in-Chicago-1-768x768.jpg 768w, https:\/\/mappyhour.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/09\/Biking-in-Chicago-1-696x696.jpg 696w, https:\/\/mappyhour.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/09\/Biking-in-Chicago-1-1068x1068.jpg 1068w, https:\/\/mappyhour.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/09\/Biking-in-Chicago-1-420x420.jpg 420w, https:\/\/mappyhour.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/09\/Biking-in-Chicago-1-1920x1920.jpg 1920w, https:\/\/mappyhour.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/09\/Biking-in-Chicago-1-scaled.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px\" \/><figcaption id=\"caption-attachment-4779\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Bike to the Chicago Botanic Gardens (10 points).<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<p>You can\u2019t go wrong with a trip to <a href=\"https:\/\/www.chicagobotanic.org\/\">The Chicago Botanic Garden<\/a> \u2013 its 27 spectacular gardens and 385 acres is well-worth the trip north of the city. But a little-known secret is that you don\u2019t have to pay expensive parking fees if you bike there. To <a href=\"https:\/\/www.chicagobotanic.org\/visit\/biking\">get to the gardens by bike<\/a>, take the North Branch Trail (20 miles) or use the one-mile link between the North Branch Trail and take the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.enjoyillinois.com\/explore\/listing\/green-bay-trail\">Green Bay Trail<\/a> (which runs closer to Lake Michigan) instead. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.chicagobotanic.org\/sites\/default\/files\/pdf\/map\/Map_Bike_Trail.pdf\">Maps here<\/a> if you\u2019re already curious how to plan your route.<\/p>\n<p>PS: For more bike adventures, check out <a href=\"https:\/\/chicago.curbed.com\/2018\/8\/31\/17805270\/illinois-bike-trails-forest-preserve-nature\">this top bike trails list<\/a> and Chicago\u2019s \u2018<a href=\"https:\/\/www.chicagoreader.com\/chicago\/mellow-bike-map\/Content?oid=50772951\">Mellow Bike Map<\/a>\u2019 for low-stress routes.<\/p>\n<h3>The Challenge:<\/h3>\n<p>Swap your car for a bike and ride to the Chicago Botanic Garden. (10 points)<\/p>\n<p><strong>Pro Tip:<\/strong> If you\u2019re planning on riding a Divvy bike, leave early. You don\u2019t want to get stuck without a spot to dock at the front gate.<\/p>\n<h2><strong>Adventure 7: Check out an Illinois State Park<\/strong><\/h2>\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure id=\"attachment_4780\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-4780\" style=\"width: 576px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-4780\" src=\"https:\/\/mappyhour.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/09\/Illinois-State-Park-768x1024.jpg\" alt=\"Swimming at Illinois State Park\" width=\"576\" height=\"768\" srcset=\"https:\/\/mappyhour.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/09\/Illinois-State-Park-768x1024.jpg 768w, https:\/\/mappyhour.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/09\/Illinois-State-Park-400x533.jpg 400w, https:\/\/mappyhour.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/09\/Illinois-State-Park-225x300.jpg 225w, https:\/\/mappyhour.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/09\/Illinois-State-Park-696x928.jpg 696w, https:\/\/mappyhour.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/09\/Illinois-State-Park-315x420.jpg 315w, https:\/\/mappyhour.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/09\/Illinois-State-Park.jpg 1000w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 576px) 100vw, 576px\" \/><figcaption id=\"caption-attachment-4780\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Check out an Illinois State Park (5 points).<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<p>Have your pick of <a href=\"https:\/\/www.stateparks.com\/illinois_parks_and_recreation_destinations.html\">70 state parks in Illinois<\/a>. Our favorites? Dang, that\u2019s a hard question. We\u2019d recommend <a href=\"https:\/\/www.stateparks.com\/illinois_beach_state_park_in_illinois.html\">Matthiessen State Park<\/a> and <a href=\"https:\/\/www.starvedrockstatepark.org\/\">Starved Rock State Park<\/a> (they\u2019re next door neighbors). They\u2019re a must-see if you\u2019re a Chicagoan. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.dnr.illinois.gov\/Parks\/Pages\/AdelineJayGeo-KarisIllinoisBeach.aspx\">Illinois Beach State Park<\/a> is another favorite because it\u2019s close to Lake Michigan and has 5 miles of trail (and a shorter yet gorgeous 2.2-mile loop). Check out all your options on the DNR website which lists <a href=\"https:\/\/www.dnr.illinois.gov\/Parks\/Pages\/default.aspx\">state parks by region<\/a>.<\/p>\n<h3>The Challenge:<\/h3>\n<p><strong>Explore one (or several) of Illinois\u2019 stunning State Parks. (5 points)<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>Pro Tip: If you decide to <a href=\"http:\/\/www.starvedrockstatepark.org\/activity\/hiking-trails\/trail-maps\/\">explore Starved Rock State Park<\/a>, start on the east side of the park and make your way back to the front entrance. You\u2019ll miss crowds (and explore some lesser-seen canyons).<\/p>\n<h2><strong>Adventure 8: Visit the Indiana Dunes National Park<\/strong><\/h2>\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure id=\"attachment_4741\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-4741\" style=\"width: 512px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-4741\" src=\"https:\/\/mappyhour.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/09\/Indiana-Dunes-National-Park-Mount-Baldy-Hike_Credit_-NPS-Photo-683x1024.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"512\" height=\"768\" srcset=\"https:\/\/mappyhour.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/09\/Indiana-Dunes-National-Park-Mount-Baldy-Hike_Credit_-NPS-Photo-683x1024.jpg 683w, https:\/\/mappyhour.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/09\/Indiana-Dunes-National-Park-Mount-Baldy-Hike_Credit_-NPS-Photo-400x600.jpg 400w, https:\/\/mappyhour.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/09\/Indiana-Dunes-National-Park-Mount-Baldy-Hike_Credit_-NPS-Photo-200x300.jpg 200w, https:\/\/mappyhour.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/09\/Indiana-Dunes-National-Park-Mount-Baldy-Hike_Credit_-NPS-Photo-768x1152.jpg 768w, https:\/\/mappyhour.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/09\/Indiana-Dunes-National-Park-Mount-Baldy-Hike_Credit_-NPS-Photo-696x1044.jpg 696w, https:\/\/mappyhour.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/09\/Indiana-Dunes-National-Park-Mount-Baldy-Hike_Credit_-NPS-Photo-280x420.jpg 280w, https:\/\/mappyhour.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/09\/Indiana-Dunes-National-Park-Mount-Baldy-Hike_Credit_-NPS-Photo.jpg 1000w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 512px) 100vw, 512px\" \/><figcaption id=\"caption-attachment-4741\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Visit the Indiana Dunes National Park (10 points). +10 points if you take The South Shore Line to get there.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>The Midwest welcomed its newest National Park \u2013 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nps.gov\/indu\/index.htm\">The Indiana Dunes National Park<\/a> \u2013 in 2019.\u00a0 The Indiana Dunes spans 15,000-acres in northwest Indiana along the southern shores of Lake Michigan. And you can even conveniently access it by taking the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.mysouthshoreline.com\/tickets\/train-schedules\/westbound\/weekend\">South Shore Line<\/a>. Not sure if it\u2019s worth the trip? Check out this <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nytimes.com\/2019\/07\/17\/travel\/camping-hiking-indiana-dunes-national-park.html\">article by The New York Times<\/a>, whose writer trekked out to the dunes for a weekend camping trip.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<h3>The Challenge:<\/h3>\n<p>Check out the Indiana Dunes, the 61st National Park in the US. (10 points, +10 bonus points if you take public transit)<\/p>\n<p><strong>BONUS:<\/strong> Earn an extra 10 points if you take the South Shore Line (public transit) to get there.<\/p>\n<h2><strong>Adventure 9: Hang out at a Local Nature Center<\/strong><\/h2>\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure id=\"attachment_4751\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-4751\" style=\"width: 750px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-4751\" src=\"https:\/\/mappyhour.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/09\/Lincoln-park-Unsplash.jpg\" alt=\"Nature Center in Chicago\" width=\"750\" height=\"500\" srcset=\"https:\/\/mappyhour.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/09\/Lincoln-park-Unsplash.jpg 1000w, https:\/\/mappyhour.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/09\/Lincoln-park-Unsplash-400x267.jpg 400w, https:\/\/mappyhour.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/09\/Lincoln-park-Unsplash-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/mappyhour.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/09\/Lincoln-park-Unsplash-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/mappyhour.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/09\/Lincoln-park-Unsplash-696x464.jpg 696w, https:\/\/mappyhour.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/09\/Lincoln-park-Unsplash-630x420.jpg 630w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px\" \/><figcaption id=\"caption-attachment-4751\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Hang out at a local Nature Center (5 points).<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<p>Nature centers are great because you can add a layer of continued education to your outdoor adventure. They\u2019re the perfect place to learn about native plant and animal species, give back to the community. Some of our favorites include the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.chicagoparkdistrict.com\/parks-facilities\/north-park-village-nature-center\">North Park Village Nature Center<\/a>, the <a href=\"https:\/\/fpdcc.com\/places\/locations\/little-red-schoolhouse-nature-center\/\">Little Red Schoolhouse Nature Center<\/a>, and <a href=\"http:\/\/www.naturemuseum.org\/\">Peggy Notebaert Nature Center<\/a> in Lincoln Park.<\/p>\n<h3>The Challenge:<\/h3>\n<p>Visit a local nature center to learn a bit more about native Illinois. (5 points)<\/p>\n<p><strong>Pro Tip:<\/strong> Chicago\u2019s nature centers host a variety of fun, family-friendly events. Check out <a href=\"https:\/\/www.chicagoparkdistrict.com\/parks-facilities\/north-park-village-nature-center-park#Events\">North Park Village\u2019s event page<\/a> to get a taste.<\/p>\n<h2><strong>Adventure 10: Clean up While You Explore<\/strong><\/h2>\n<p>Clean up at a local park\/beach with your <a href=\"https:\/\/www.instagram.com\/11thessential\/?hl=en\">11th Essential<\/a> \u2013 a trash bag that you add to your essential items list. By bringing a bag with you on the trail, you can make stewardship a priority on every adventure. While packing a plastic bag to pick up trash on the trail is a great place to start, you can also volunteer with local organizations like the <a href=\"https:\/\/greatlakes.org\/get-involved\/\">Alliance for the Great Lakes<\/a> for local beach cleanups.<\/p>\n<p>BONUS: Earn an extra 1 point for every full plastic grocery bag of trash you collect.<\/p>\n<h3>The Challenge:<\/h3>\n<p>Collect trash on the trail, in the park, or on the water. (10 points, +1 bonus point for every grocery bag of trash you fill)<\/p>\n<h2><strong>BONUS: Volunteer for an Outdoor Non-Profit<\/strong><\/h2>\n<p>Get an extra point for each hour that you spend time volunteering with a local non-profit that advocates for the improvement, protection and recognition of Chicago\u2019s green spaces and public places. The <a href=\"https:\/\/www.chicagoenvironment.org\/\">Chicagoland Environmental Network<\/a> is a good resource to find groups to support.<\/p>\n<p>Plus, here\u2019s a short list to get you started:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/aclk?sa=l&amp;ai=DChcSEwixvt-O0dTkAhUThsgKHXC_Dh0YABAAGgJxdQ&amp;sig=AOD64_2L5BjAseecfG0XNCyS6wasKsKKZg&amp;q=&amp;ved=2ahUKEwi1wNWO0dTkAhUEQq0KHRX6C88Q0Qx6BAgZEAE&amp;adurl=\">Active Transportation Alliance<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.sierraclub.org\/illinois\/chicago-ico\">Sierra Club\u2019s &#8211; Chicago Inspiring Connections Outdoors<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.chicagoriver.org\/\">Friends of the Chicago River<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/greatlakes.org\/get-involved\/\">Alliance for the Great Lakes<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"http:\/\/elpc.org\/\">Environmental Law &amp; Policy Center<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/aclk?sa=l&amp;ai=DChcSEwilhoeH0dTkAhUBjsgKHTRPBz8YABAAGgJxdQ&amp;sig=AOD64_0_fbvjj4Aj-hfaU_CsmXj5HSWNDg&amp;q=&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjJzvyG0dTkAhVMiqwKHRLUBfsQ0Qx6BAgNEAE&amp;adurl=\">Friends of the Forest Preserves<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.openlands.org\/\">Openlands Chicago<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator\" \/>\n<h2><strong>Points: The Chicago Explore More Challenge<\/strong><\/h2>\n<p><strong><em>Completed at 60 Points<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n<table class=\"wp-block-table\">\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<td><strong>Adventure<\/strong><\/td>\n<td><strong>Points<\/strong><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><strong>Climb in Chicago<\/strong><\/td>\n<td><strong>5<\/strong><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><strong>Paddle the Chicago River<\/strong><\/td>\n<td><strong>10<\/strong><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><strong>Explore the Chicago Forest Preserves<\/strong><\/td>\n<td><strong>5<\/strong><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><strong>Take Public Transit to the Trailhead<\/strong><\/td>\n<td><strong>10<\/strong><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><strong>Camp in the City<\/strong><\/td>\n<td><strong>15\u00a0<\/strong><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><strong>Bike to the Chicago Botanic Gardens<\/strong><\/td>\n<td><strong>10<\/strong><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><strong>Check out an Illinois State Park<\/strong><\/td>\n<td><strong>5<\/strong><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><strong>Visit the Indiana Dunes National Park<\/strong><em>+10 points if you take The South Shore Line to get there<\/em><\/td>\n<td><strong>10, 10 point bonus<\/strong><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><strong>Hang out at a Local Nature Center<\/strong><\/td>\n<td><strong>5<\/strong><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><strong>Clean up While You Explore<\/strong><em>+1 point for every full plastic grocery bag of trash you collect<\/em><\/td>\n<td><strong>10, 1 point bonus<\/strong><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><strong>BONUS: +1 extra point every time you adventure with a new Mappy Hour friend.<\/strong><\/td>\n<td><strong>1<\/strong><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><strong>BONUS: +1 extra point for every hour you volunteer with a local, outdoor-focused non-profit.<\/strong><\/td>\n<td><strong>1<\/strong> <strong>(up to 10 points)<\/strong><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>Photo credits:<\/p>\n<div>Nikko-Salgado<span style=\"font-family: tahoma, sans-serif;\"><br \/>\n<\/span><\/div>\n<div>Forest Preserves of Cook County<\/div>\n<div>NPS<\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>10 Outdoor Adventures in and Around Chicago Here we outline our favorite ways to enjoy the outdoors in and around Chicago. Our partner, The North Face, is helping us bring this guide to life with The Chicago Explore More Challenge, which starts September 26, 2019 and runs through August 24, 2020. Read on to find [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":42,"featured_media":4748,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[280],"tags":[231,237,40],"yst_prominent_words":[],"class_list":{"0":"post-4735","1":"post","2":"type-post","3":"status-publish","4":"format-standard","5":"has-post-thumbnail","7":"category-explore-more","8":"tag-chicago","9":"tag-erica-zazo","10":"tag-the-north-face"},"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO Premium plugin v14.2 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/wordpress\/plugins\/seo\/ -->\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"10 Outdoor Adventures in and Around Chicago.\" \/>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow\" \/>\n<meta name=\"googlebot\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<meta name=\"bingbot\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/mappyhour.org\/blog\/2019\/09\/the-chicago-explore-more-guide\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"The Chicago Explore More Guide - 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