Hiking, Illinois State

Point of interest

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

Point of interest

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.

Point of interest

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

Point of interest

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.

Point of interest

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

Point of interest

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

Point of interest

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.

Point of interest

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

Point of interest

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

Point of interest

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

Point of interest

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.

Point of interest

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.

Point of interest

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.

Point of interest

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.

Point of interest

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

Point of interest

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.

Point of interest

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

Point of interest

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

Point of interest

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.

Point of interest

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.

Point of interest

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

Point of interest

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

Point of interest

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

Point of interest

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.

Point of interest

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

Point of interest

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

Point of interest

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.

Point of interest

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

Point of interest

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

Point of interest

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.

Point of interest

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.