Join Midwest Living (R) magazine's Dan Kaercher as he explores dozens of the region's most spectacular natural areas-magnificent parks, scenic rivers and lakes, preserves teeming with wildlife and native plants, and more. Each lavishly illustrated chapter tells many fascinating stories about the natural wonders of the twelve Midwestern states: Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, North Dakota, Ohio, South Dakota, and Wisconsin. Included in this volume are national parks, forests, lakeshores, and wildlife refuges as well as state-run parks and preserves and scenic byways. Gorgeous photography and you-are-there text will lead you on an armchair adventure, and practical information-including site hours, recreational opportunities, and nearby accommodations and attractions-will help you plan your own trip. Dan even includes signature recipes from the expert cooks who fed him along the way! If you think of America's midsection as bland, flat, boring fly-over country, you're in for a huge surprise. You'll discover new vistas, old friends, and a warm welcome within these pages-the Parklands of the Midwest.