One of the best ways to enjoy the beauty of nature and fresh air of the outdoors is to visit one of the hundreds of great hiking trails Illinois has to offer. And with over 270 hiking trails that total over 700 miles, the Prairie State provides plenty of options for residents and tourists in all areas from north to south, east to west, and everywhere in between.
Depending on the temperature and the weather conditions, hiking can be a year-round activity with some limitations in Illinois. The peak seasons for hiking are in the spring and fall, due to milder and friendlier weather conditions. Fall could be considered the best time for hiking, especially for those that enjoy cooler but manageable temperatures along with the beauty of fall foliage.
Hikers in Illinois can enjoy three long trails, including the VERY long 155-mile Hennepin Canal State Trail that spans five counties (Rock Island, Bureau, Henry, Lee, and Whiteside) from the Rock River to the Illinois River. The Illinois and Michigan Canal provides 61.5 miles of scenic views in the northeastern part of the state, and the 27-mile Rock Island Trail in the northwestern part of the state connects Alta in Peoria County to Toulon in Stark County.
One of the most popular hiking spots is Starved Rock State Park, located on the Illinois River and just south of I-80 between Ottawa and Oglesby. Starved Rock includes 13 miles of interconnected trails and 18 canyons and waterfalls. The trails are open from dawn to dusk and are pet-friendly. According to one blogger, Starved Rock offers incredible fall foliage, glowing canyons, and active wildlife in the fall. The views, amenities, and lodging options are also big draws to the area, and please plan ahead during busy periods.
Southern Illinois and areas along the Mississippi River provide incredible hiking options, including around the Shawnee National Forest, which has the Little Grand Canyon Trail and Jackson Falls Trail. The forest stretches from the Ohio River border to the Mississippi River and the Missouri border. The Rim Rock Recreation Area and Trail includes the popular Garden of the Gods Observation Trail, home to sandstone formations over 300 million years old. Fern Clyffe State Park near Goreville includes the Happy Hollow Trail and scenic waterfalls, forests, and creeks. More hiking possibilities in southern Illinois include Bell Smith Springs and Giant City State Park, located near Carbondale. The Great Rivers and Routes region along the Mississippi River includes 200 miles of hiking and biking trails. One of the best family hiking areas in the metro-east, Olin Nature Preserve of the Nature Institute boasts a multi-level cascade that flows year-round.
A list of the top hiking trails in the state puts Starved Rock State Park at the top, followed by Lakefront Trail, Waterfall Glen Forest Preserve, Swallow Cliff Stairs, and Busse Woods Trail System. Another list includes Garden of the Gods Observation Trail, along with Little Grand Canyon Trail, Bell Smith Springs Recreation Area, and Pomona Natural Bridge, among others. Other options include Matthiessen State Park, Devil’s Lake, and Rock Cut State Park.
Safety is an important part of hiking, so please prepare before heading out. Obviously, wear clothing commensurate with the climate that day, and proper walking or running shoes are a must. Be aware of insects, including mosquitoes and ticks, and wear long sleeves and insect repellent. Also, do not get caught out deep on a trail without water and food. Pets should be secured on a leash, and always remember to stay on designated trails.
The benefits of hiking are as much mental as they are physical, with a strong workout and physical exercise obvious benefits. Also, spending time outdoors while exercising and experiencing wonderful sights and sounds can greatly boost mental health and overall mood. Hiking does not have to be an individual activity; in fact, going out with a group or friend can enhance the overall experience and is a much safer option. Hiking helps build personal relationships and allows for meaningful conversations in a relaxed environment.