25 Best Hiking Trails in Illinois (With Waterfalls & Amazing Views)

When envisioning a trip to the state of Illinois, natural beauty is probably not the first words to escape your lips. The windy metropolis of Chicago grabs the headline as the gem of Illinois, but beyond the distracting bright lights of the big city is a state abundant with farmland, forests, wetlands, and rolling hills.

Tucked away in these lesser-known areas are hundreds of unique and naturally diverse hiking trails that make rural Illinois a hidden treasure for outdoor enthusiasts.

Here is your guide to 25 spectacular hiking trails in “The Prairie State” – the great state of Illinois.

Table of Contents

1. Giant City Nature Trail

Places to hike in illinois — Credit: Shutterstock

Directions: From Carbondale, head south on S Giant City Road and drive for 9.7 miles before turning right onto S Church Street. Continue for 0.3 miles and make a left to stay on S Church Street. After another 0.3 miles, turn left onto Stonefort Road. Drive for 0.5 miles and turn left onto Giant City Lodge Road, the trailhead will be on your right.

This short-but-sweet hike through Giant City State is arguably the most scenic trail in all of Illinois. The trail is primarily an exquisite wooden boardwalk enclosed by 12,000-year-old sandstone bluffs, creating the namesake, “Giant City Streets”.

Keep an eye out for names etched into the surrounding rock walls – at first glance, it appears to be graffiti, but a closer look reveals names carved all the way back in the mid-1800s.

Difficulty: Easy
Distance: 1.0 Miles
Elevation Gain: 160 Feet

2. Garden of the Gods Observation Trail

Directions: From Harrisburg, head south on IL-145 S for 6.0 miles and take a left onto IL-34 S. Continue for 9.4 miles and make another left onto 1180 N/Karbers Ridge Road. Drive for 2.8 miles and make a left onto Garden of the Gods Road. After 1.0 miles, take a left to stay on Garden of the Gods Road and the trailhead will be on your left.

This hidden gem transports you away from the flat landscape of the Midwest. The Garden of the Gods Observation Trail is an overlooking trail that passes through deep forests and beautiful views of the surrounding lakes and rivers.

Be on the lookout halfway through the loop for Devil’s Smokestack, a unique rock formation resembling a cave stalagmite overlooking the valley.

Difficulty: Easy
Distance: 0.5 miles
Elevation Gain: 39 Feet

Related Read: 15 Top Treehouse Rentals in Illinois

3. Fern Clyffe Waterfall Trail

Directions: From Marion, head south on IL-37 S and drive for 14.8 miles. Look for the signs for Ferne Cliffe State Park and make a right at the entrance. Continue for 1.0 miles and the trailhead will be on your right.

Located within the Shawnee National Forest, the Ferne Clyffe Waterfall Trail is a short, but challenging trek to the shores of a tall, wispy waterfall.

The hike meanders through lush forests along rocky terrain before opening to the refreshing waterfall. This trail can be rugged, so be sure to wear appropriate footwear.

Difficulty: Moderate
Distance: 1.3 Miles
Elevation Gain:206 Feet

4. Dells Canyon and Bluff Trail

Directions: From North Utica, drive south on IL-178 S/S Clark Street for 3.3 miles before turning right onto N 25th Road. Drive for another 0.9 miles and the trailhead for the Dells Canyon and Bluff Trail will be on your right.

A beautiful and diverse hike within Matthiessen State Park, Dells Canyon, and Bluff Trail is an amazing trail that takes you through a variety of unique natural environments.

The trail begins with a cascading waterfall that leads the way down a beautiful canyon. Follow (and cross) the slow-trickling waters until reaching the bottom – a calm and serene lake fed by another cascading waterfall.

Difficulty: Moderate
Distance: 2.0 Miles
Elevation Gain: 206 Feet

5. Salt Lick and Johnson Trail Loop

Directions: From Waterloo, head south on IL-156 W for 8.8 miles and turn right onto Quarry Street. Drive for 0.5 miles and turn right onto Limestone Lane and the trailhead for the Salt Lick and Johnson Trail Loop will be on your left.

This moderate hike is an excellent trail through Illinois prairie lands. Along the way are opportunities to capture vibrant and blooming spring wildflowers.

Once reaching the top of the loop, you will be rewarded with far-reaching views of downtown St. Louis and the Mississippi River.

Difficulty: Moderate
Distance: 2.9 Miles
Elevation Gain: 452 Feet

6. Little Grand Canyon Trail

Directions: From Carbondale, head west on W Murphysboro Road for 2.0 miles and take a left onto Country Club Road. Drive for 1.1 miles and make a right onto Chautauqua Road. Stay on Chautauqua Road for 2.6 miles before merging onto Orchard Hill Road, continue for another 2.8 miles. Make a right onto Poplar Ridge Road and drive for 1.2 miles before merging onto Hickory Ridge Road. After 2.4 miles, turn right onto Little Grand Canyon Road and after 0.2 miles, the parking area will be on your right.

The Little Grand Canyon Trail is a canyon that you would not know existed unless you were looking for it. Hidden in the Shawnee National Forest, this trail is a mild descent into a deep canyon that cuts through the lengths of the park. With the depth of the canyon, moisture can collect in this lush canyon so be prepared for slick trail conditions.

Difficulty: Moderate
Distance: 3.4 Miles
Elevation Gain: 508 Feet

7. Buffalo Viewing Trail

Directions: From Joliet, drive south on IL-53 S to W Peotone Road in Florence Township for 9.7 miles and make a left onto US-6 W. Continue on US-6 W for 1.4 miles until merging onto IL-53 S. Continue for 9.7 miles and make a left onto Schweitzer Ed Road. After 0.2 miles, turn left and then an immediate right and your parking area for this hike is on your right.

In the 19^th century, large populations of grazing buffalo and bison inhabited the prairies just outside of Joliet but were over-hunted and unfortunately left this area uninhabited.

However, in 2015, USDA Forest Reintroduced 27 bison back into the environment. The Buffalo Viewing Trail is a terrific way to witness and get up and close (but not too close) to these returned native creatures just outside the busy city limits.

Difficulty: Easy
Distance: 3.6 Miles
Elevation Gain: 52 Feet

8. Pierce Lake Trail

Directions: From Rockford, drive northeast on IL-251 N for 2.4 miles and make a slight right onto Forest Hills Road. Continue for another 5.6 miles and use the right two lanes to turn right onto West Lane Road. Stay on West Lane Road for 1.9 miles and make a right into Loves Park. Drive for 0.7 miles and make a right onto Hart Rd and drive for 1.9 miles, the trailhead will be on your left.

This gentle hike follows along the forested shores of expansive Pierce Lake. A local favorite, this hike through Rock Cut State Park is a busy trail that is popular with several types of outdoor enthusiasts.

It is common to see a dozen fishing boats and high-speed water skiers disturbing the calm surface. The scenic shores of this trail create excellent opportunities for tranquil dips in the lake at nearly every junction.

Difficulty: Moderate
Distance: 3.6 Miles
Elevation Gain: 72 Feet

9. Starved Rock and Sandstone Point Overlook Trail

Directions: From La Salle, drive east on US-6 E for 0.8 miles and turn right onto E 709th Road. Continue for 1.3 miles and turn right onto N Division Street. After 0.3 miles, merge onto IL-178 S and drive for another 1.5 miles and turn left into Starved Rock State Park. After 0.8 miles, make a left and the trailhead will be on your left.

The hike to Starved Rock and Sandstone Point is a trail with several highlights that are well worth the price of admission. The ultimate highlight is a stunning canyon that resembles a cave.

In the center of this “cave,” a powerful waterfall crashes down onto a sharp rock formation, creating a unique shaded and enclosed area behind the falls.

T&T Tip: Visit in the winter, as the waterfall seemingly freezes instantaneously and keeps its frozen shape against the sharp rock formation.

Difficulty: Moderate
Distance: 4.3 miles
Elevation Gain: 337 Feet

10. Deer Grove Yellow Loop Trail

Directions: From Arlington Heights, head northwest on US-14 W for 4.8 miles and turn right onto N Quentin Road. Drive for 1.3 miles and turn left into the Cook County Forest Preserve and drive for another 0.7 miles and the parking area will be on the left.

The Deer Grove Yellow Loop is a mild and steady climb through the rolling hills of some of Illinois’ finest prairies, woodlands, and wetlands.

Although this trail does not lead to majestic overlooks, it more than makes up for it with abundant opportunities to capture a variety of native wildlife, such as chipmunks, coyotes, and thousands of species of unique birds to identify.

Difficulty: Moderate
Distance: 5.7 Miles
Elevation Gain: 298 Feet

11. Busse Woods Loop Trail

Directions: From Arlington Heights, head south on N Arlington Heights Road and drive for 4.1 miles and turn right onto IL-72 W. Continue driving for 1.1 miles and the trailhead will be on your right.

Busse Woods Loop Trail is a unique destination in the fact that is more of a walking elk safari than a typical day hike. This comfortable 7-mile hike has little-to-no elevation gain and is paved in its entirety.

Along this trail, it is important to keep your eyes peeled – these hills have herds of elk that can be spotted by the hundreds! If you do spot a herd, DO NOT approach them. They can be extremely dangerous if provoked.

Difficulty: Easy
Distance: 7.5 Miles
Elevation Gain: 101 Feet

12. Waterfall Glen Trail

Directions: From Naperville, head east on 75th Street for 9.0 miles and turn right onto S Cass Avenue. Continue for 1.9 miles and turn right onto Northgate Road. After 0.1 miles, the trailhead will be on your right.

The Waterfall Glen Trail is the ideal escape from the bright lights of Chicagoland. Just an hour outside the city, this hike takes you deep within the natural prairies and savannas of Illinois, far enough to escape the overwhelming sounds of Chicago.

The long trail leads you to an incredible multi-tiered tumbling waterfall, resting in a calm and shallow creek – an excellent and refreshing natural retreat from the city.

Difficulty: Easy
Distance: 9.3 Miles
Elevation Gain: 400 Feet

13. Sag Valley Yellow Trail Loop

Directions: From Joliet, drive north on IL-171 N for 10 miles and turn right onto IL-83 S. Continue on IL 83 S for 3.6 miles and turn right into Swallow Cliff Woods and after 0.1 miles you will find the parking area for the hike.

The Sag Valley Yellow Trail Loop is a moderate hike along comfortable crushed limestone that is a popular horseback and mountain biking trail as well as hiking.

The hike follows atop rocky bluffs looking down on old toboggan slides as you traverse the perimeter of a dense forest just outside the city. The gentle trail is an excellent and convenient escape from the busy elements of city life.

Difficulty: Moderate
Distance: 7.6 Miles
Elevation Gain: 410 Feet

Related Read: 15 Best Romantic Getaways In Illinois

14. Indian Point Trail

The Indian Loop Trail is an exceptional choice if you desire a trail that is off the beaten path. Following along a rock-strewn ridge, this trail descends beneath the bluffs into a rocky canyon full of rock scrambling opportunities.

The trail is poorly marked and not well maintained, so be cautious wandering too far from the trail – but the payoff is in its seclusion and tranquil nature.

Difficulty: Easy
Distance: 1.7 Miles
Elevation Gain: 187 Feet

15. Saint Louis Canyon Trail

Directions: From North Utica, head south on IL-178 S for 1.4 miles and turn left onto E 875th Road. Drive for 1.3 miles and make a left onto Lodge Lane. Drive on Lodge Lane for 0.2 miles and turn left, followed by an immediate right and the parking area will be on your right.

Another incredible hike within Starved Rocks State Park, the trail to Saint Louis Falls will leave you with memories for a lifetime. The trail is a collection of smooth canyons that lead to many beautifully forested offshoots.

This path steeply leads you down into a narrow canyon with a majestic crashing waterfall that creates a mid-western oasis beneath the high canyon walls.

Difficulty: Easy
Distance: 2.1 Miles
Elevation Gain: 232 Feet

16. Palos Orange Trail

Directions: From Joliet, head north on IL-171 N for 14.5 miles and turn right to stay on IL-171 N. After 2.4 miles, make another right onto W 95th Street. Drive for 0.2 miles and turn onto Wolf Road. After 0.7 miles, the trailhead for the Palos Orange Trail will be on your right.

The Palos Orange Trail is a hike hidden along a beautiful ravine just outside of downtown Chicago. This scenic trail is a popular path that is perfect for mountain biking and hiking.

The level trail through Wolf Rock Woods is surrounded is a wonderfully and comfortably shaded hike through the lush wilderness. Be sure to keep your ears peeled, there will likely be mountain bike traffic along your path.

Difficulty: Moderate
Distance: 5.7 Miles
Elevation Gain: 423 Feet

17. Jackson Falls Trail

Directions: From Bloomfield, head northeast on US-45 N for 8.8 miles and make a right onto Ozark Road. After 1.9 miles, make a right to stay on Ozark Road. Continue for 2.8 miles and make a right onto Glen Street Falls Road and drive for another 1.9 miles and the trailhead parking area will be on your right.

The hike to Jackson Falls is more than meets the eye. The trail is a moderate hike through the beautiful Illinois wilderness surrounded by unique rock formations that make for a climbing and bouldering wonderland.

After a few miles of hiking through this dense landscape, you will be rewarded with Jackson Falls, a stunning multi-tiered waterfall that crashes to the rocky shores at your feet.

Difficulty: Moderate
Distance: 4.2 Miles
Elevation Gain: 433 Feet

Related Read: 15 Best Waterfalls Near Chicago

18. Rim Rock Recreational Trail

Directions: From Harrisburg, head west onto IL-13 E for 13.4 miles and turn right onto IL-1 S. Drive for another 8.7 miles and take a right onto Pounds Hollow Road. Continue for 3.0 miles and the parking area will be on your right.

The Rim Rock Recreational Trail is a short hike that is not only beautiful but historic! This narrow canyon hike is a moderate stroll through some of the most unique trail conditions in southern Illinois.

The trail was built by Late Woodland Native Americans nearly 1,500 years ago! It was not until 1980 that this trail was named and protected as a national recreation trail.

Difficulty: Moderate
Distance: 1.7 Miles
Elevation Gain:360 Feet

19. Salt Creek Greenway Trail

Directions: From downtown Chicago, head west onto I-290 W for 9.7 miles and take exit 20 for IL-171 toward 1st Avenue. Stay on IL-171 for 2.2 miles and turn right onto Golfview Drive. Drive for another 0.2 miles and make a right onto 31st Street. After another 0.2 miles, make a right onto McCormick Avenue. Drive for 0.2 miles and you will reach the parking area for this hike.

The Salt Creek Greenway Trail is a multipurpose trail that runs from the Brookfield Zoo to Busse Woods Preserve. Along this paved pathway, you will have comfortable walking conditions for miles that lead you through the hilly landscape of southern Illinois.

The path offers excellent views of a glacial valley, gravelly boulder clay rock formations, and the unique pools of Salt Creek.

Difficulty: Easy
Distance: 13.6 Miles
Elevation Gain: 229 Feet

20. Trillium Trail

Directions: From Carbondale, head south onto S Illinois Avenue for 1.3 miles and turn left onto E Pleasant Hill Road. After 0.4 miles, make a right onto Springer Ridge Road and drive for another 5.6 miles. Make a sharp left onto Stonefort Road and after 0.1 miles, the parking area for the hike will be on your right.

The Trillium Trail is a rugged, but moderate trail that is surrounded by natural beauty. Along this short route, you will follow a comfortable dirt path beneath incredible rocky bluffs lush with green foliage emanating from the surface.

This trail is best completed later in the season to avoid muddy conditions, but also to capture the beauty of the changing colors of the fall leaves.

Difficulty: Moderate
Distance: 1.3 Miles
Elevation Gain: 164 Feet

21. Herrick Lake Trail

Directions: From Naperville, drive north on S Washington Street for 4.0 miles before turning left onto W Warrenville Road. Continue for 0.6 miles and turn right onto the first cross street onto Herrick Road. After 1.0 miles, follow the signs for the Herrick Lake Forest Preserve West parking Lot, the trailhead for this hike.

The Herrick Lake Trail is a wonderful hike that takes you through miles of Illinois’ lush prairies and wetlands, without veering too far from the city. Tucked between two separate interstate systems, the trail within the Herrick Lake Forest Preserve is a multi-purpose path lined with crushed gravel.

If you are an angler, this is an excellent place to bait your hook. Along the way, you will encounter two calm and expansive lakes that are a perfect place to cast a line.

Difficulty: Easy
Distance: 8.1 Miles
Elevation Gain: 164 Feet

22. Lakeshore Path: North Ave to Navy Pier

Directions: From Lincoln Park, head east onto Fullerton Ave for 0.9 miles before turning right to merge onto US Hwy 41 S. Continue for 1.5 miles and use the right 2 lanes to merge onto N Lake Shore Drive. Drive for 0.3 miles and turn left onto E Lake Shore Drive. After 0.2 miles, make a right onto E Walton Street, and after another 0.9 miles. Make a quick right onto N Michigan Ave and drive 0.3 miles before taking the ramp onto E Lake Shore Drive. Merge onto US Highway 41 N and drive for 0.4 miles and take the Lasalle Drive exit toward North Avenue – the parking area will be on your right.

This section of Lakeshore Path – North Ave to Navy Pier, is a section of an 18-mile trail along the shores of Lake Michigan in the heart of downtown Chicago.

This short out-and-back section of this trail begins on the shores of Ohio Street beaches and continues until you get a clear view of the iconic Navy Pier.

Along the trail, you will be flanked by the tall skyscrapers making up the Chicago skyline – with the John Hancock Building as your compass.

Difficulty: Easy
Distance: 1.8 Miles
Elevation Gain: 22 Feet

Related Read: 25 Best Hiking Trails Near Chicago

23. Panther Den Loop

Directions: From Carbondale, take West Walnut Street for 0.9 miles and make a slight right onto E Walnut Street. Continue for another 0.9 miles and make a right onto S Giant City. Drive for 6.1 miles before making a left onto Grassy Road. After 3.0 miles, turn right onto Rocky Comfort Road and drive for 1.9 miles. Turn onto N Rocky Comfort Road and drive for 3.1 miles before making a left onto Panthers Den Road. Drive for 1.5 miles, turn left onto Panthers Den Lane, and after another 0.5 miles you will reach the parking area.

In the Shawnee National Forest on the southern border of Illinois, the Panther Den Wilderness hiking loop is a unique trail that takes you through rolling hills that feature peculiar bluffs that are curiously eroded. The bluffs have eroded in a way that resembles an animal’s den, particularly that of panthers.

The trail is rugged and decently maintained, but there are several muddy and rocky spots. Be sure to bring the proper footwear or it will be a muddy afternoon.

Difficulty: Moderate
Distance: 2.9 Miles
Elevation Gain: 285 Feet

24. Saw Wee Kee Trail

Directions: From Aurora, head south on State Route 31 S for 5.8 miles and merge onto US-34 W. Stay on US-34 W for 1.2 miles and take a left onto S Orchard Road. After 0.7 miles, make a right onto Budlong Road and make an immediate right onto Minkler Road. Follow Minkler Road for 1.0 miles and turn right into the parking area for this hike.

The Saw Wee Kee Trail is a rustic and muddy trail along Fox River that you can expect you get dirty. The path subtly rolls through dense hills in See Wee Kee Park but is also an extremely popular mountain biking single track.

With the popularity of the path, the trail conditions deteriorate and becomes a long slog through a beautiful and natural wilderness. Do not let it deter you, splashing through the terrain is an experience that is best enjoyed from the eyes of your inner child.

Difficulty: Moderate
Distance: 10.1 Miles
Elevation Gain: 209 Feet

25. Pere Marquette Outer Loop

Directions: From Wood River, drive west on IL-143 W for 5.2 miles and take one of the two left lanes to turn left onto W Broadway. After 0.3 miles, take IL-100 N for 20.9 miles and make a right onto Visitors Center Lane and then an immediate left to stay on Visitors Center Lane and the trailhead will be on your right.

The Pere Marquette Outer Loop is a beautiful overlooking hike that circles the entirety of Pere Marquette State Park. This moderate trail takes up an incredibly scenic ridge that continues climbing higher until you reach the ridge.

The remainder of the adventure follows the ridge, giving overlooking views of Bundy Lake, the Mississippi River, and on a cloudless day, you can have unobstructed views of the St. Louis Skyline – including the famous Gateway Arch.

Difficulty: Moderate
Distance: 6.3 Miles
Elevation Gain: 1,033 Feet

— Update: 22-03-2023 — cohaitungchi.com found an additional article 15 Scenic Trails For Hiking In Illinois from the website midwestexplored.com for the keyword places to hike in illinois.

Are you looking for the best places for hiking in Illinois?

Then you’ve come to the right place!

Known as the ‘Prairie State,’ there is so much to do in Illinois. And it is full of amazing scenic views.

But Illinois also has forests, wetlands, farmland, and of course, cities like Chicago.

That makes the Illinois hiking trails some of the best in the midwest.

They are so varied and each one of them has something unique to offer for hikers of all skill levels.

I was born and raised in the Midwest, and Illinois is one of my favorite places to visit, especially for exploring!

On this list, I’ve made sure to include a variety of different kinds of Illinois hiking trails.

There are easy hikes that take less than 10 minutes and more moderate hikes that can take you a few hours.

No matter your skill level, I promise there is a beautiful place for hiking in IL on this list for you!

So, let’s take a look at some incredible scenic trails for hiking in Illinois.

15 Scenic Trails For Hiking In Illinois

Hike The Little Grand Canyon Trail

The Little Grand Canyon Trail is a scenic trail located in Shawnee National Forest.

It is a beautiful Illinois hiking trail, especially in the spring months.

The most popular time to visit and hike this trail is in April and October.

In April, the wildflowers are often in full bloom and offer a beautiful springtime landscape.

If you visit in October, you’ll be treated to a riot of Midwest autumn colors.

The trail is open year-round and is rated as moderate to difficult.

It is rated that way because it is a fairly rocky trail and there is a significant slope in certain areas of the trail.

If you choose to hike the whole trail, it is 3 miles. But you can always take one of the shorter segments that you’ll find along the main trail.

It’s a bit of a difficult trail, but it’s also one of the best hiking trails in Illinois.

Head Outside Of Chicago To Hike The Waterfall Glen Trail

One of the best hikes near Chicago can be found at the Waterfall Glen Forest Preserve.

The Waterfall Glen Forest Preserve is located in Darien, which is about 30 minutes outside of Chicago.

With over 2,500 acres, the park itself is massive and there’s plenty to explore.

Most visitors love to hike the Waterfall Glen Trail.

The Waterfall Glen Trail, also considered the Main Trail, is a 9.5-mile loop.

It is also paved, so it’s a fairly easy trail for most hikers to enjoy.

You can bike the trail, or simply walk it.

Along the loop, you’ll see several scenic sites, including a beautiful Illinois waterfall.

If you are looking for a fairly easy hike, then this is one of the best hikes near Chicago.

The Garden Of The Gods Observation Trail Is A Short And Easy Illinois Hiking Trail

The Garden of the Gods Observation Trail is one of the most popular places for hiking in Illinois.

It’s a heavily trafficked trail, but it’s also short and easy.

At just .5 miles, this out-and-back trail is a loop that is paved with flagstone.

As you walk the loop you’ll get to see stunning panoramic views of the famous rock formations.

It is a narrow trail and there are some steep parts, so while it’s rated as easy, it might be difficult for wheelchairs or strollers to navigate.

There are also portions that are considered moderately steep.

However, because it’s such a short loop, most people find the trail fairly easy to navigate.

If you go on this Illinois hiking trail, you’ll be rewarded with some beautiful views.

This is an excellent place to check out camping in Illinois as well.

The Dells Canyon And Bluff Trail Is Great For Hiking In Illinois

Located in Matthiessen State Park is the Dells Canyon and Bluff Trail.

This is one of the cool locations to experience fall in Illinois.

The Dells Canyon and Bluff Trail are categorized as moderate trails.

It is a 2-mile loop that is fairly popular, so you may experience some heavy traffic during the popular hiking seasons.

While you are on the trail you’ll get to see some beautiful natural canyons and a natural lake.

It is rated as moderate because there are some steep sections and it can be very slippery in certain areas.

However, it’s still one of the best hiking trails in Illinois!

The Indian Point Trail Is A Beautiful Place For Hiking In Southern Illinois

If you’re looking for a great place for hiking in Southern Illinois, head to the Shawnee National Forest.

The Shawnee National Forest is full of amazing Illinois hiking trails.

Many of the beautiful trails on this list are in the Shawnee National Forest!

One of my favorites is the Indian Point Trail.

The Indian Point Trail is a 1.9-mile loop.

You’ll start on a ridge and then gently progress to a bluff that overlooks the beautiful valley.

Because you’ll be going up in elevation, and there are some steep areas, the trail is rated as moderate.

However, the beautiful views of the prairie, valley, and woods are totally worth it!

Go Hiking In Southern Illinois At The Giant City Nature Trail

The Giant City Nature Trail is one of the best hiking trails in Illinois for all skill levels.

It is rated as easy and is a 1-mile loop.

Because it is an easy trail with beautiful views, it is also very popular.

So prepare for potentially dealing with some crowds during the peak hiking season.

There is a wooden boardwalk that takes you through natural canyons and you’ll see plenty of wildflowers as well.

The trail is also located near the Devil’s Standtable, which is a really cool and popular rock formation to check out.

Giant City Nature Trail is a great Illinois hiking option if you want to enjoy scenic views on an easy trail.

The Jackson Falls Trail Is Another Beautiful Shawnee National Forest Trail

The Jackson Falls Trail is nestled in the heart of Shawnee National Forest.

It is in an area that is popular for rock climbing, mushroom foraging, and bird watching.

The trail itself is .25 miles long, but it is considered fairly moderate.

Generally, it takes about 20 minutes to hike the trail and reach a viewpoint of this stunning Midwest waterfall.

But there are some steep points.

However, if you want to hike to the bottom of the falls, you’ll need to take a 3.25-mile roundtrip hike.

It’s easily one of the best hikes in Illinois if you want a bit of a challenge and some scenic views in a short hike.

Go Hiking In Chicago On The Lakefront Trail

A great way to see the city but also enjoy a nice hike is the Lakefront Trail.

The Lakefront Trail is one of the best hiking near Chicago options.

There is an 18-mile bike trail next to an 18.5-mile pedestrian trail that hugs Lake Michigan.

You can start and stop the trail at several points throughout the city.

So you can hike the whole thing, or just do certain sections.

No matter what you choose to do, this is easily one of the best hikes near Chicago.

You’ll get to see some scenic views of the city as well as Lake Michigan on the entire trail.

Go Hiking In Illinois In The Shawnee National Forest

Because there are so many hiking trails at the Shawnee National Forest, it’s one of the best places for hiking in Southern Illinois.

You will find hills, lakes, and woodlands all of which make great hiking in Illinois.

You’ll walk through mature beech and oak-hickory forest.

Shawnee National Forest is one of the most beautiful places to hike in Illinois.

The Springbrook Prairie Trail Is Great For Hiking In Illinois

There are two parts to the Springbrook Prairie Trail.

The most popular part of this hiking trail in IL is the 5.5-mile loop.

It is well-maintained with crushed limestone and is generally a pretty easy hike.

There are a few hills, but for the most part, it’s considered an easy trail.

The other part of the trail is a bit more rugged.

It is a 2.9-mile loop that is not paved. The trail is actually mostly dirt and grass, which is one of the reasons why it is considered a bit more difficult.

Both trails will have you walking through some gorgeous scenic Illinois prairies.

Depending on when you visit, you may get to see them full of wildflower blooms.

Try Illinois Hiking On The Bloomingdale Trail

You can find the Bloomingdale Trail in Bloomingdale Park.

Bloomingdale Park is actually located in Chicago.

That makes it a great place for some of the best hiking near Chicago.

The trail stretches 2.7 miles through Chicago’s northwest neighborhoods.

It also crosses through several beautiful areas within the city.

It’s one of the best hiking trails in IL because it is fairly easy, paved, and you’ll get a mixture of both cityscapes and natural areas.

If you’re looking for unique hiking in IL options, I suggest spending some time on the Bloomingdale Trail.

Head To Starved Rock State Park And Hike The Illinois Canyon Trail

Starved Rock State Park is about 2 hours west of Chicago.

It’s a popular Illinois State Park and it has some of the best hiking trails in Illinois.

The Illinois Canyon Trail is popular because it is fairly short and is rated as an easy trail.

It is .9 miles long and it’s an out-and-back trail.

Along the trail, there is a river and even a small waterfall.

You’ll want to wear your boots though.

Areas of the trail are often muddy and there are a few smaller streams that you may have to traverse.

But even still, this is one of the best hikes in Illinois.

Experience Beautiful Views While Hiking In IL On The Glacial Park Loop Trail

Some of the best hiking in Illinois for beginners can be found at Glacial Park.

Glacial Park is a little under 2 hours outside of Chicago, and it’s got some of the best hiking near Chicago.

The park has 5 miles of trails, and the main trail is the Glacial Park Loop Trail.

The Glacial Park Loop Trail loops most of the park.

It is paved and rated as an easy hiking trail in IL.

As you hike on the paved trail you’ll get scenic views of prairie lands, an oak savannah, and delta kames.

It’s also a great place for bird watching and you can even bring your horses and take the horseback trail.

Try A Moderate Hike In Illinois On The Ferne Clyffe Waterfall Trail

If you’re up for the challenge, I suggest trying hiking in IL on the Ferne Clyffe Waterfall Trail.

You can find the Ferne Clyffe Waterfall Trail in the Ferne Clyffe State Park, which is in Southern Illinois.

The trail itself is a 1.3-mile loop that is a pretty popular trail.

That is because it has some beautiful scenery.

It is a rugged trail, so it is rated as fairly moderate.

However, once you reach the waterfall, you’ll find it was worth the effort.

Go Hiking In Illinois On The Olin Nature Preserve Beaver Trail

The Olin Nature Preserve Beaver Trail is located in the John M. Olin Nature Preserve.

You can find it right by the border to Missouri, in southwestern Illinois.

The trail itself is 2.3 miles long and is a full loop.

Along the loop, you’ll get to see a beautiful waterfall.

The trail is rated as moderate because there are some steep portions.

As well as steep portions, there are also a couple of creek crossings.

So this is another Illinois hiking trail where you’ll want to wear your boots.

But if you’re up for a little challenge and a little adventure, then this is one of the best hikes in Illinois.

Packing List When Hiking In Illinois

If you are searching, here are some tips on how to pack lightly when packing for hiking in Illinois.

A concealed travel pouch may be one of the most important items you bring along when on your hikes in Illinois. It is always important to protect your personal information. Identity thieves are everywhere.

This unisex RFID blocking concealed travel pouch is lightweight and comes in several colors. It has lots of organization to give you peace of mind. You can place it under your hiking clothes next to your body to carry your ID safely.

If you have a pouch already that does not come with the RFID protection, as I do, these RFID sleeves are the perfect solution.

If you are planning on taking a lot of pictures with your phone you will definitely want to consider an external charging battery. This Anker high-speed phone charging battery is the exact one I carry with me on all of my trips.

I like that it holds its charging capabilities for several uses so I do not have to worry about it while out and about, and if I forget to recharge it at night, it will still be good to go the next day.

My daughter gifted me with this FugeTek selfie stick and tripod setup for my birthday. I absolutely love it! It is made of lightweight aluminum and is so easy to use.

It has Bluetooth connectivity and is a breeze to use for taking Insta-worthy selfies while discovering island getaways in the US.

I never much believed in using packing cubes when traveling. That is until I tried them. Now I am hooked. These are the exact cubes I use to stay organized when I pack for a trip!

You will want to bring your own refillable water bottle with you.

I never leave home on a trip without my Bobble filtration bottle. The 18.5-ounce size is perfect for your adventures and it fits nicely in the pocket of a backpack.

Perhaps you are traveling a long distance and packing space is a premium in your suitcase, or in your car. Then this set of collapsible silicone foldable water bottles would work well for you. Would not take up much space at all.

You will want a backpack or daypack with you to store snacks, your water bottle, phone, extra clothes, etc.. during long hours of hiking in IL. No matter the time of day or evening.

This foldable water-resistant backpack would be great. And it comes in many different colors.

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There are so many great trails for hiking in Illinois, hiking in the Midwest!

No matter what skill level you are at, you can still experience stunning views at any one of these Illinois hiking trails.

Any of these destinations would make for a spectacular Midwest weekend getaway.

Make sure you plan ahead, check the weather, and pack a lunch before you head out on your next adventure while hiking in IL!

I’m sure you’ll have a great time when you explore these spectacular hiking trails in Illinois!

Here are some other great options for hiking in the Midwest.