Trails

This leisurely hike through Bell Smith Springs takes you to the largest natural bridge in the state.

This 2-mile loop through the heart of Matthiessen State Park is a moderate but fun trek with tons of exciting natural sights along the way.

As its name implies, this trail is one of the best spots in the state to view the majestic buffalo herds that roam through the grassland prairies.

There may be plenty of beautiful spots to visit in this state park, however, the views from this scenic lookout are second to none.

This 14-mile network of trails has four individual routes each bringing you to the shores where you can soak in the views of this sparkling 1,750-acre reservoir.

Kickapoo State Park has plenty to offer in terms of outdoor activities.

The diverse scenery of sand dunes, black oak forests, and coastal shorelines is one of the main reasons to embark on this rustic 2.2-mile trail.

There are plenty of beautiful hikes in the Shawnee Forest, but this trail is considered to be one of the most scenics.

Ideal for both day trips and overnight hikes, this 11-mile trail is suitable for all different levels of hikers.

This short but challenging hike through the Shawnee National Forest gives you front-row seats to one of the coolest geological structures in Southern Illinois.

Although it is not the hardest or longest of trails in Illinois, this .7-mile trek is a fun way to see some of nature and wildlife that lives in the Shawnee National Forest.

Venture down this remote 3.7-mile trail to visit a beautiful cascading waterfall in the middle of a wooded forest.

This manmade lake in southern Illinois is popular with locals and tourists for its crystal-clear waters and abundance of outdoor opportunities especially hiking.

This flat and easy trail is a great jumping-off point for exploring the lake.

If you are looking for a challenging hike with picture-postcard views and beautiful scenery, then look no further than this trail through the Shawnee National Forest.

This scenic 1.9-mile loop is full of different types of terrain (dirt, gravel, and pebbles), which makes it an interesting hike for those who crave a bit of nature.

Floating in Lake Michigan under the shadow of Chicago is towering city skyline is the man-made peninsula known as Northerly Island.

Not for the faint of heart, this strenuous trail is guaranteed to get your heart pumping. For most of the 9-mile journey, you will be climbing through the Lusk Creek Wilderness encounter a variety of obstacles like creek crossings and ledge walking.

A one-hour drive from Chicago drops you off in this rugged wonderland of hilly terrain.

Immerse yourself in nature while you wander around a sparkling blue lake through the wooded forest on this 4.3-mile trek in Rock Cut State Park.

If you are looking for an alternative to the many forested and canyon rock trails in Illinois, then consider this beautiful hike through the tallgrass prairies.

This well-maintained trail has a lot to keep you entertained while you hike the rim of the namesake rocky outcropping.

Despite being one of the smaller trails in the area, this 2-mile loop makes a leisurely walk for anyone looking to spend a few hours in nature.

There are very few trails in Illinois that are as well-known as this one.

This 2-mile trail is located in the heart of the Kankakee River State Park.

Located on a 600-acre nature and water reserve, this tough 3-mile trail starts right off the bat with a steep climb towards the rocky bluffs.

Ideal for families, dog-lovers, and even beginners, this fun trail has a fantastic view that do not require too much effort to reach.

A great tour through the Bell Smith Springs, this loop winds along the banks of Bay Creek and offers an off-the-beaten-path experience.

Between the frozen waterfalls and budding wildflower fields, there is really not a bad time to go hiking along this trail in Makanda.

Situated in the heart of DuPage County is this 2,492-acre forest preserve.

One of the most challenging (but most rewarding) hikes through the Shawnee National Forest is this uphill hike to Whiskey Cave.