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10 Best Hikes you should do in Illinois

The state of Illinois is characterized by beautiful forests, farmlands, hills and wetlands. It has a population of 12.72 million according to the census conducted in 2020. This is a large population and as a way of unwinding, the residents and visitors who are fond of the outdoors can go hiking.

The region has several scenic hiking trails that people can take if they want to be away from the crowds and the fast-paced life of the city. Therefore, this article narrows down the trails to the ten bests that an outdoor enthusiast should try while in Illinois.

1. Little Grand Canyon Trail

The 5.5 km hiking trail is found in Pomona Illinois. It is considered to be a moderate trail in terms of challenge which means that most people can take on the trail. It takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes for one to complete the entire trail. Since the trail is popular among hiking enthusiasts, one will meet other people while taking a hike.

Additionally, the trails are open all year round which allows hikers to go to this place any time of the year that they feel like hiking. As one is walking on this trail, one might encounter animals like lizards.

2. Waterfall Glen Trail

This trail is located in the Waterfall Glen Forest Reserve. It has a length of 15 km and an elevation gain of 122 metres which is pretty low and thus considered to be an easy trail. It will take an individual about 3 hours to complete the trail. Also, the area attracts people who are into bird watching, cycling and hikers which means that one will encounter other people on the trail.

Furthermore, dogs are allowed on the trails and therefore, dog lovers can bring their companions to this unique adventure. The trail is great for hiking in the spring because the flowers will have bloomed and thus making the trail smell very nice.

3. Giant City Nature Trail

This trail is found in Giant City State Park. The hiking trail features a length of 1.6 km which takes a person about 27 minutes to complete. This means that it is an easy trail that is ideal for children. Therefore, families with small kids can explore this trail as it will not be strenuous on the children and they also get to bond and do something as a family.

Additionally, the rocks along the way are a great way to experience nature closely. It is also not far from town which makes it easily accessible to the residents.

4. Garden of the Gods Observation Trail

The nature trail is located at the Garden of the Gods Wilderness. It spans 0.25 and has an elevation gain of 39 feet. This means that in terms of the difficulty level, the trail is an easy one though it has some steep sections. The trail also allows dogs but they have to be on a leash to ensure they do not run off.

Additionally, the trail is open throughout the year making it popular among outdoor enthusiasts. The highlight of this trail is the rock formations. It features seven rock formations with names like Monkey’s Head, The Squeeze and Devil’s Smokestack.

5. Fern Clyffe Waterfall Trail

The trail located at Fern Clyffe State Park is 0.75 miles long but when looped with the Big Rocky Hollow Trail, it is 1.3 miles. The trail is not very challenging and can take an individual about 44 minutes to complete.

The highlight of this trail is the Fern Clyffe Waterfall where a hiker can cool down at the pond found at the base of the fall. Therefore, this is one of the trails one should do as it is also doable for kids and thus provide a family experience.

6. Pierce Lake Trail

Pierce Lake Trail is located in Rock Cut State Park. The trail is 3.6 miles which can take about 2 hours to complete. Also, it is not very challenging and therefore hikers of all skill levels can try it out. The trail is open throughout the year which makes it among the favourites of the outdoor enthusiasts.

Additionally, the trail welcomes dogs who have a leash. The highlights of this trail include the beautiful views of the lake and the incredible plant life found in the forest.

7. Dells Canyon and Bluffs Trail

It is located in Matthiessen State Park, Northern Illinois. This trail takes the outdoor enthusiasts through a captivating Matthiessen State Park. It spans 1.98 miles and it can take an individual about an hour to complete it. Additionally, the highlights of this trail are the creek crossings found as one is hiking and two beautiful waterfalls.

8. Starved Rock and Sandstone Point Overlook Trail

The trail is 4.3 miles long and it is considered to be moderately difficult. The time needed to complete this trail is about 3 hours. The trail gets very crowded in the summer as many people want to have the outdoor experience. Therefore, one should come early so that they can find a space to park and enjoy the outdoors. The trail features several vistas and the Lasalle Waterfall which attracts tourists to it.

9. Salt Lick and Johnson Trail Loop

The nature trail located in Salt Lick Point Land and Water Reserve is a moderate hiking trail that is 2.9 miles long with an elevation gain of 452 feet. The hiking trail is open throughout the year but spring and summer are the most beautiful times to take a hike there as there will be more flowers that make for a scenic view. The top of the trail rewards the hiker with great distant views and flat trails.

10. Indian Point Trail

This trail is located close to Harrisburg Illinois. It is an easy trail that is 1.7 miles long and can take a person around 50 minutes to complete. The trail features caves and camping grounds which attracts the hikers to it. The trail is somehow rocky, therefore, people who want to hike at the site should wear boots to avoid injury.