Little Grand Canyon

Illinois has its fair share of rocky bluffs and steep canyons, but this one in the Shawnee National Forest has to be the most peaceful. The moss-covered rocks and colorful sandstone walls sit undisturbed, except for the chirping of birds and trickling of waterfalls that can be heard in the distance. A 3.6-mile trail that travels through the canyon takes you along the lush forest and around the falls, before leading up a flight of stairs to the top of the bluffs. From the overlook, you will be able to see over the Big Muddy River and Mississippi River floodplain.