The 12 Best Hiking Trails in Illinois

Illinois is a state that has something for everyone. From the prairie lands that border one side to the woodsy outdoor mecca that’s on another and with a major city like Chicago, there’s something for everyone who likes to hike in Illinois.

The state has a strong history of living off the land and learning how to forage trails ahead, so take advantage of that while you’re hiking in Illinois.

If you’re looking to traverse across Illinois, enter your ZIP code above first and compare at least three to four policies to ensure you’re fully covered on the road!

The 12 Best Hiking Trails in Illinois

#12 — Lover’s Leap Overlook Trail

Length: 1.8 Miles
Difficulty: Moderate

Lover’s Leap Overlook Trail is rated as moderate, but it provides views in the middle of the loop that are great for people who want the reward of a view. The trail is near Oglesby, Illinois.

Leashed dogs are allowed to visit the trail. The trail has a lot of traffic and carries history with it.

The legend of the trail talks about the lovers who leaped from the falls into the river below. There are different endings to the myth, but most are an interesting take on the paranormal that can happen on trails in the middle of the wilderness.

#11 — Rim Rock Recreational Trail

Length: 1.7 Miles
Difficulty: Moderate

While the trail is rated as moderate, the boardwalks make it an easy hike for those who have trouble with accessibility on trails. The trail is close to Junction, Illinois. Hikers who have dogs on leashes are welcome on the Rim Rock Recreational Trail.

The trail holds the recreational designation because of the beauty combined with historical significance in the Illinois landscape.

The trail is somewhat isolated by the sandstone bluffs that surround it. It is easy to reach by car and hikers can visit the trail any time of year since the trail is accessible all year long.

#10 — Indian Point Trail

Length: 1.8 Miles
Difficulty: Easy

Along with hiking on the Indian Point Trail, visitors can also take advantage of horseback riding and other recreational activities along the trail. There are paths designated for runners, but, otherwise, it is a kid-friendly trail. The Indian Point Trail also welcomes dogs on leashes.

Since the trail is an easy hike, it makes an ideal location for families who want to hike, for those who are just getting started and for those who are only interested in casually hiking.

The location is also great for those who like to include picnics and other activities with the hikes they go on but also has some opportunities for more experienced hikers.

#9 — Ferne Clyffe Waterfall Trail

Length: 2.1 Miles
Difficulty: Easy

The Ferne Clyffe Waterfall Trail is a trail that reaches only up to 364 feet. You can catch views of the waterfall from the top and the bottom while hiking on the trail.

Despite the breathtaking views, you can see while hiking the Ferne Clyffe, the trail is rated for all skill levels.

Since it features activities that are better suited to warm weather, March through October is the best time to hike there. The trail is a wheelchair and dog-friendly and one that families of all ages can enjoy together.

#8 — Pere Marquette State Park Loop

Length: 6.2 Miles
Difficulty: Moderate

Once you reach the 1,286-foot top of the trail, you’ll be able to look down on the Illinois wildlife below.

Located just outside of Grafton, Illinois, the Pere Marquette State Park Loop is a good trail for those who have some experience hiking. It is a rocky trail but also features paths that are perfect for those riding mountain bikes on the hike.

All hikers who bring dogs along must keep them on a leash and always clean up after them in an appropriate manner while they are visiting the Pere Marquette State Park Loop.

#7 — Dells Canyon and Bluff Trail

Length: 2.2 Miles
Difficulty: Moderate

Even though the trail has a moderately heavy flow of traffic, it is still one where hikers can enjoy a sense of peace and solitude. It is another trail located near Oglesby, Illinois and provides a lake for visitors to enjoy while they are there.

The trail is available to hikers throughout the year. It is a popular birding spot and features different paths for those who are walking and those who are running. The dogs who visit the trail with their hikers must be kept on a leash at all times while on the trail.

#6 — Salt Lick Point Trail

Length: 2.9 Miles
Difficulty: Very Advanced

Only those who are looking for adventure and have experience should attempt the Salt Lick Point Trail. It is a trail that is extremely difficult and features things like:

• Water crossings
• Steep inclines
• Dangerous paths off the trail

Leashed dogs are allowed on the trail, but may not be able to do some of the crossings that humans can do. There are beautiful views from the trail, but hikers must beware of the rocky environment surrounding it.

The trail is an adventurous one and will not provide a leisurely stroll through the woods; it also features caves for those who are hoping to do some exploring deeper.

Trails like these are suggested only for those who have practiced hiking before. Hikers should also consider hiking in groups while on the Salt Lick Point Trail because of the danger that lurks within the woods.

#5 — Waterfall Glen Trail

Length: 9.5 Miles
Difficulty: Moderate

The trail, which is near Willowbrook, Illinois, is rated moderate because of the length and the steep inclines on the trail. It is open all year, but it is only best during March to November because of the risk of high water from the snow runoff and the potential dangers of actual snow or freezing temperatures.

Dogs can visit the trail, but they must be kept on a leash. Since it is located in the Waterfall Glen Forest Preserve, there are different rules hikers must be made aware of before they set out on the trail.

Throughout the hike, hikers can enjoy the views that are provided by the forests and the waterfalls that make up the bulk of the trail. It also allows hikers the chance to get a taste of different scenery because it loops through the forest and flatlands.

#4 — Garden of the Gods Observation Trail

Length: 5 Miles
Difficulty: Easy

As a heavily trafficked observation trail, the Garden of the Gods Observation Trail makes a great go-to spot in the Shawnee National Forest.

Not only is the trail filled with easy paths, but it is also relatively short. Families who move quickly can finish it in under one hour, but many plan to stay longer to catch the views of the Garden of the Gods.

There are different areas to visit around the trail as well as camping close by. Many visitors that come to the observation trail are already at the national park, but those who have just come to hike may also want to take advantage of the recreational and outdoor activities the park has to offer.

Cave hiking and rock climbing are a few favorites of the people who come to enjoy the outdoor splendor of Shanee National Forest. Families who come to the trail may even bring their dogs as long as they are leashed and they clean up after them.

#3 — Cap Sauers and Swallow Cliff Loop Trail

Length: 7.7 Miles
Difficulty: Moderate

Near the Palos Park, Illinois Sag Valley Forest Preserve is the Cap Sauers and Swallow Cliff Loop Trail. It has an elevation of 492 feet at its highest point. There is a river that runs through the trail but is easily avoided through different methods of hiking the paths.

It is open year-round and is a popular destination for those who enjoy snowshoeing through Illinois.

There is also trail running paths along the hike that allow those who want to move fast the option to do so without disturbing the other hikers who are also using the trail. The trail allows dogs that are placed on a leash.

#2 — Little Grand Canyon Trail

Length: 3 Miles
Difficulty: Difficult

Also in the Shawnee National Forest, the Little Grand Canyon trail has very light traffic. It is one of the most difficult trails in Illinois and lives up to its name as the Little Grand Canyon.

Th trail reaches up to 597 feet at its highest point and is intended for experts only.

It is a year-round trail with ice climbing for those who are interested, but it is not one of the best trails for snowshoers. The trail also features a waterfall during the warm months that is accessible only by hiking to the bottom.

#1 — Starved Rock and Sandstone Point Overlook Trail

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BCl-bCQtwCo

Length: 3 Miles
Difficulty: Moderate

The Starved Rock State Park features over 15 canyons that make dramatic backgrounds for all hikes. The Sandstone Point Overlook Trail is one of the most popular that has a moderate amount of traffic.

Once hikers reach the point to overlook, they will be treated to views of the canyons below; they can see the forested canyons that make breathtaking pictures and even some small waterfalls depending on the time of year.

The trail is best from March to November, but it is open all year long.

Where to Begin

Most people drive to where they are going to hike. One of the best options for hikers who are doing a loop trail is to simply drive to the starting point, hike, and return back to your car.

If you are going to do a loop hike, be sure you leave your car in a safe area.

You may also want to consider learning more about designated parking areas so you don’t have to worry about getting towed or being in the wrong spot. Always lock your car before you leave and try not to take any valuables especially if you are going on a multi-day hike.

— Are you fully covered for auto insurance?

You may be surprised to find your car is not protected if you leave it in a parking lot for an extended period of time. Review your policy to see if you are covered for things like:

• Vandalism or theft
• Damage from animals
• Damage from a vehicle that has hit you and driven off

If you plan on hiking often while you leave your vehicle, you may want to talk to your insurance agent about what type of coverage will be right for you.

Comparison shopping, once you know what you need, is one of the easiest ways you can save money while also getting the best policy with everything you need.

— Longer Hikes

If your hike is not a loop, you may want to consider other options. There are starting and stopping points that are made just for people who want to meet up with a friend at the end of the trail.

Have a friend drop you off at the beginning of the trail and make sure they know where and when to pick you up once you have completed the hike.

The easiest way to do this is plan ahead. Be sure your car is covered so your friend can safely drive it. You’ll want your car to be protected in case something happens while you’re out on the trail. The right protection can give you peace of mind while you’re hiking.

Are you wanting your car to be fully covered for any situation? Enter your ZIP code below and start comparison shopping today!