A Chilly Reunion @ Hickory Canyons

The best part about doing editorial photo shoots for 573 is that we get to meet the area's coolest, most passionate, and interesting people at the best places. After 20 years of publication, we've met thousands of locals from all over the kingdom. One of the coolest things is when someone reaches out saying they were in the magazine years ago, and it was a very fond memory for them—I love that. Recently, we were contacted by Paige Peterson, who had been featured twice in 573 Magazine. When we reconnected with her, we learned that things in her life had changed in a BIG way. We couldn't wait to catch up and learn what’s been going on, so we met her and her hubby at Hickory Canyons Natural Area to check out the ice falls—yup, it was a very cold photo shoot.   

Paige and Parks Peterson take on the Hickory Canyons.

I’m Paige Peterson, and I live in southeast Missouri with my husband, Parks, and our three kids — Parker (3), Payne (almost 2), and Pia (under 1). Parks serves as our county treasurer and is very involved in the local community, while I work at Parkland Health Center in physician services and recruitment. Life is full and busy in the best way right now. Most days revolve around work, daycare drop-offs, family dinners, and soaking up the little moments that come with raising young kids. The community doesn’t just feel like home — it is home. Parks and I both grew up here, and it means a lot to us to now be raising our family in the same place.

All Missouri Parks are FREE to visit. Why wouldn't you?

https://visitperrycounty.com/

Years of working hard have given Paige and Parks lots to smile about.

Looking back at my previous photo shoots with 573 — one in high school and another in college — it’s incredible to see how much life has changed. Back then, I was focused on what was next. Now, I’m very much grounded in the present. This season of life is full, meaningful, and deeply intentional. I’ve built a career I’m proud of, started a family, and continue to learn and grow both personally and professionally. I’m currently pursuing my Master of Healthcare Administration, which feels like a natural next step alongside my work and family life. While my goals continue to evolve, I’m learning to appreciate this season for what it is — busy, beautiful, and deeply rewarding.

We surprized Paige with a copy of the 2015 573 Magazine. It brought back great memories of the photo shoot all those years ago.

For the editorial, we had Paige photograph horses with an antique Polaroid camera.

https://hoodshomecenters.com/farmington-mo/

I wish they would make the old Polaroid again!

Hickory Canyons was a perfect and unexpected setting for the shoot. Located in Ste. Genevieve County, it was actually our first time visiting. We went during the coldest stretch of winter so far, which made the experience even more memorable. The waterfall was frozen solid — something we didn’t anticipate but won’t forget. The natural area felt quiet, raw, and peaceful, highlighting just how much natural beauty exists in southeast Missouri, even in the middle of winter. It was a meaningful place to capture this chapter of life — calm, grounded, and deeply connected to home.

https://www.fisherfurniture.net/

There is so much to see here, and its so close to visit—amazing.

Today, Paige and Parks have their hands full.

Call Denny!

Another fun shoot with Paige. Thanks, Paige!

Hickory Canyons Natural Area is a great short hike to some of the area's most interesting box canyons, sandstone cliffs, cave overhangs, and a great waterfall.  Two hiking trails offer great views of the area's distinctive canyons, wildlife, and a laundry list of unique plants.  A one-quarter mile trail from the parking area leads to the box canyon, and across the road from the parking area is a more strenuous, one-mile trail that traverses the steep terrain through the sandstone forest—well worth the diggs.  Hickory Canyons Natural Area is one of our favorite hikes.

https://visitcape.com/

https://valorwellness.co/farmington

Get Out There! We command you to do something. Learn something new. Take a hike. Start a business.  Do something. Do anything. What one person can do, another can do. That sunken sofa will be fine without you—that won't change. 

Be sure to visit all of our awesome sponsors who make these stories possible!

https://www.edg-clif.com/

https://stegenevievehospital.org/

https://www.workspace573.com/