Events at Pere Marquette

Looking to get outside and explore the beauty of the park? Join us for Guided Weekend Hikes at Pere Marquette State Park! These guided hikes offer a chance to experience the park’s scenic trails while learning about local plants, wildlife, and natural history along the way. Each hike is a great opportunity to enjoy fresh air, ask questions, and connect with nature in a fun and informative setting. This program is free and open to all—no reservation required. Meet at the Visitor Center at 11:00 AM on the dates listed.

Oct | 23rd | 2026 7:00 PM

Nov | 7th | 2026  7:00 PM 

Dec | 5th | 2026  7:00 PM 

Winter Night Hikes

Join us for a guided 2.5-mile hike starting at 7 PM to explore winter ecology and park history. The hike will take approximately 1.5 hours. The Visitor Center will open at 6:30 PM, and a limited number of flashlights will be available. It is recommended to bring your own flashlight. Reservations are recommended. (call 618-786-3323 to reserve your spot.)

TBD | All Day | The Piasa Trail Races

Get ready for an exciting day of trail running and outdoor fun! The Piasa Trail Races are coming to Pere Marquette State Park on TBD, featuring challenging distances of 12.5K, 25K, and 50K through scenic park terrain. Whether you’re racing or cheering on friends and family, it’s a great way to enjoy the trails and community spirit. Overnight lodging and camping options are available in the park for participants and spectators alike. For more details and registration info, visit The Piasa Trail Races website! (www.thepiasa.com)

OCT 31st 2026 | 11:00 AM | Intro To Bouldering

Details: Ready to climb, explore, and have fun? Join us for an exciting Intro to Bouldering program at Pere Marquette State Park! Participants will learn the basics of bouldering—a style of rock climbing done on shorter walls without ropes—while building confidence, balance, and problem-solving skills in a safe and supportive outdoor environment. No experience is needed, and all skill levels are welcome, so come ready to move, climb, and challenge yourself! This program is free, but space is limited—call 618-786-3323 to reserve your spot.

Dec 12th 2026 | 6:00 PM | Pere Marquette Star Party

Join us at Pere Marquette State Park for a Star Party hosted in partnership with the St. Louis Astronomical Society! Enjoy an evening under the stars as experts guide you through constellations, planets, and deep-sky wonders using high-powered telescopes. Perfect for all ages and experience levels—just bring your curiosity and a sense of wonder!

Nov 9th 2026 | 10:30 AM | Winter Off Trail Adventure

Join us for a strenuous off-trail hike at Pere Marquette State Park and explore areas of the park not typically seen on the main trails. Discover unique natural features, learn about local ecology, and enjoy a guided adventure through the park’s hidden landscapes. This hike is strenuous and not recommended for beginners. Reservations are required (call 618-786-3323 to reserve your spot).

Mar 20th 2027 | 10:30 AM | Maple Syrup Festival

Join us for the Third Annual Maple Syrup Festival at Pere Marquette State Park! Learn how maple trees are tapped and syrup is made right here in the park. Enjoy live demonstrations and tastings of maple syrup harvested from the park, along with family-friendly activities, educational programs, and hands-on experiences celebrating the maple sugaring season

Oct 24th 2026 | 11:00 AM | The Reptiles In Your Yard

Join doctoral student Isaac Wilson for a program exploring the reptiles that may be found in and around your own backyard. Learn about common local snakes, turtles, and lizards, two live endangered snake species and their unique adaptations, and the important roles they play in our ecosystem.

DEC 5th 2026 | 11:00 AM | Winter Tree ID

Join your park interpreter for a winter hike and learn how to identify trees without their leaves. Discover how to use bark, buds, twigs, and tree shape to identify common trees found throughout Pere Marquette State Park

DEC 20th 2026 | 1:00 PM | Coffee With The Conservation Cops

Interested in a career in law enforcement? Join Illinois CPO’s for coffee and conversation about what it takes to become a Conservation Police Officer. Learn about the career, training, daily responsibilities, and opportunities to protect Illinois’ natural resources.