IL > driving from Chicago to Garden of the Gods, Feb 14 for an overnight. Anyone else?

[Trailz]

Newb here.

Isn't that Valentine's Day?
Yup, (Sunday), but my darling wife and I are celebrating the occasion Saturday. Turns out I've got Sunday free, and President's Day (Monday) off.

Is this a for sure deal?
If the weather in the Shawnee area isn't forecast to go any lower than 35 degrees on that Sunday evening, I'll be hanging for a night along the River to River Trail (or maybe the Indian Point). My current set-up won't keep me warm any lower than 35, so all this is very weather-permitting for me.

You're going to drive from Chicago for one night? Are you nuts?
It's only a 6 hour drive with music and coffee and good weather— it won't hurt any.

Who's going with you?
If anyone in the Chicago area wants a ride with me, or if anyone want's to meet up that Sunday night at Garden of the Gods, cool with me. I'm sure I'd learn a thing or two from you, and I'd sure appreciate that.

[JoeDotCom]

Hi, another noob in chicagoland here (NW Burbs).
I'm not available that day, but I wanted to say that that sounds fun. Enjoy!!

[dtp2c111]

Oh man, any other weekend and I would be interested. But my gf would kill me if I went on Vday! Let me know if you ever want to go again or someplace else. I'm in Chicago.

[Fishbite]

It is a great idea, but the drive is too much for me for 1 night: it would have to be a minimum of 3 nights for that distance. I have that Monday off also, and I would like to do some hammocking maybe some fishing also. Find a place nearer to you (I live near Elgin, IL), at the most 2 hours away, and if the weather is 35 or above, I would definitely go, even if it was the last minute. I was planning to clean up my fishing gear that day, though I would much rather get outside.

[Campdavid]

Another Chicago guy here....NW burbs near Crystal Lake. Long drives? No problem...two weeks ago I drove to Indy for a 45 minute meeting, turned around and drove right back.

Like others have said, V-Day weekend is a no go though. Not to mention I had surgery today....three freaking hours under the knife.....might be about a month or so before I can camp again. Bummer.

Have fun and thanks for the offer!

[AndyG]

Hiked and hung in Giant City last weekend, would go but I'm doing the Ozark Trail that weekend. Forecast is right around your limits. Have fun!

[Trailz]

It appears the winter weather isn't cooperating with my current set up. Sorry to say, I won't be making the trip after all.

In any case, happy hanging to you all, and enjoy your Valentine's.