Exploring Midwest Wonders

Discover National Parks, Scenic Trails, and Outdoor Adventures Across Eight Stunning States

De: Everett Wilder

Narrado por: Ryan Forkel

Discover the Midwest’s secret symphony of nature with Midwest Wonders. Tucked amid rolling plains and sleepy towns, a treasure trove of national parks awaits—where windswept dunes rise like mountains, waterfalls whisper through emerald valleys, and ancient forests hum with life. This isn’t just a guide; it’s your passport to a region brimming with unexpected splendor and untold stories, from the sun-soaked shores of Indiana Dunes to the dramatic cliffs of Pictured Rocks and the serene, emerald embrace of Cuyahoga Valley.

Dive into a world of exploration with:

•Camping recommendations tailored for every adventurer—pitch a tent under a starlit sky in remote backcountry or unwind at welcoming, family-friendly sites.

•Insider tips to maximize your journey: the best seasons for vibrant wildflowers, prime wildlife spotting, and hidden gems only locals know.

•Rich history and culture woven into the land—stand where Native American tribes thrived, marvel at weathered lighthouses guarding the Great Lakes, and uncover tales of pioneers carved into ancient rock.

•Seasonal highlights that bring each park to life, whether it’s autumn’s fiery palette, winter’s silent snowscapes, or summer’s golden glow on Lake Superior’s edge.

Perfect for thrill-seekers, history buffs, and families alike, Midwest Wonders transforms a casual outing into an unforgettable odyssey. Picture yourself kayaking through crystal waters, breathing in the scent of pine as the sun dips below the horizon, or sharing stories around a crackling campfire. This book doesn’t just show you the Midwest’s wild side—it immerses you in it.

©2025 Everett Wilder (P)2025 Everett Wilder

Beautiful and informative!

Loved listening to this audiobook. It really brings the Midwest to life with vivid descriptions, history, and hidden gems. Great mix of nature, culture, and travel tips-perfect for planning future trips.

Detailed Descriptions Bring the Parks Alive

I thoroughly enjoyed listening to the descriptions of each of these Midwest wonders, national parks across eight states. Wilder describes each park in detail, from its flora and fauna, history, and unique features to the mysteries and strange phenomena associated with the park.

The mysteries and strange phenomena were my favorite parts, aside from the vivid descriptions that helped me visualize each park. The legends, ghost stories, unexplained sounds and lights—each made me want to visit the parks.

It was amazing to hear how large some of the parks are, how many islands were within a park, the number of lighthouses in some of the parks, and that one park is so dark that it’s officially designated a “dark sky park!” Dark sky park? I had never heard of such a thing!

Very helpful to want-to-be visitors are the descriptions of the available variety of accommodations within parks (tent and RV camping, lodges—even houseboats in one park) and in nearby towns and cities (hotels, lodges, resorts, B&Bs).

This is a very well-written, interesting listen that made me want to visit Midwest parks!

Learned a lot

This is a captivating audiobook that brings the heart of America’s landscapes to life. I felt like I was being transported into unforgettable outdoor adventures. Whether kayaking, hiking, or gathering by a campfire, the narration paints vivid scenes that are perfect for travelers or curious minds to learn more about the Midwest.

Inspiring guide to Midwest adventures

What I like about this book "Exploring Midwest Wonders", is how it brings the beauty of the region to life with clear guides and vivid detail. I discovered trails, parks, and hidden places I never knew existed. It makes planning a trip exciting and simple, and I feel ready to explore with confidence.

fun

This is an enjoyable listen that highlights the beauty and variety of the region’s landscapes. The audiobook takes you through national parks, scenic trails, and outdoor destinations across eight states, painting a vivid picture of what each has to offer. The narration captures both the excitement of adventure and the calm of nature, making it easy to imagine being there. It’s a great guide for travelers looking for inspiration or anyone who wants to appreciate the Midwest’s natural treasures from afar.

Discovering Midwest gems

I'm so inspired to get outside and explore the Midwest after listening to this audiobook! It's like having a friend show you all the secret spots and hidden gems you've been missing out on. From hiking and kayaking to scenic drives and stunning vistas, this guide has given me a whole new appreciation for the natural beauty of our region. The stories and descriptions are so vivid, you'll feel like you're right there on the trail. Whether you're a local or just visiting, this audiobook is a must-listen for anyone looking to experience the best of the Midwest.

A Guide That Makes Park Adventures Simple

This guide quickly became the go-to resource for planning Midwest park visits. The maps are easy to follow, and the trail notes are accurate and detailed enough to avoid surprises. Seasonal tips help choose the best times for different parks, and the packing checklists are a huge help when getting ready for longer trips. Families will appreciate the kid-friendly activities, while outdoor enthusiasts can dive into more challenging hikes or backcountry options. It’s practical, reliable, and makes exploring the Midwest’s parks far more enjoyable.

From someone who lives in the Midwest...

The heartland has my heart, but honestly, I haven’t explored it much outside of Iowa and Nebraska. As we took our trip to Minnesota, I listened to this audiobook in the car with my husband and kiddos. It was informative and imaginative! It truly makes me want to visit more attractions in the Midwest, rather than always dreaming about a tropical place. These 8 states listed in the book are just as magnetic!

A must-have companion for midwest adventurers

I got this audiobook hoping for some travel inspiration, and it far exceeded my expectations. The narration is smooth and engaging—perfect for listening to on a road trip through the region. What I love most is how it balances practical details with vivid descriptions.
The audiobook doesn’t just list parks—it paints such a rich picture of the landscapes that I felt like I was already there. The sections on Indiana Dunes, Pictured Rocks, and Cuyahoga Valley were especially captivating, and the insider tips on the best times to visit and hidden gems made me bookmark spots I’d never even heard of before.
The camping recommendations were super helpful. I appreciated how it covered both rugged backcountry options and more family-friendly sites—great for planning different kinds of trips. The cultural and historical background added so much depth, too. It reminded me that these parks are more than just pretty scenery; they’re living stories.
Whether you’re planning your first visit to a Midwest park or you’re a seasoned hiker looking for new adventures, this audiobook is a fantastic resource. It’s informative, inspiring, and makes you want to pack your gear and hit the trails right away.

Our Next Family Adventures Are Planned!

As a dad to a four-year-old, I'm always on the lookout for our next family adventure, and I honestly figured the Midwest was mostly flat farmland. This audiobook completely changed my perspective. It paints a picture of a region full of hidden waterfalls, towering dunes, and deep forests that I never knew were practically in my backyard. Ryan Forkel's narration is fantastic; he sounds like a seasoned park ranger sharing his favorite spots, making you want to pack the car immediately. This is the perfect guide for any family looking to discover incredible outdoor wonders without having to travel halfway across the country.