20 Popular Illinois Hiking Trails

Illinois may not have the towering peaks of the Rockies, but it’s a hidden gem for hikers who crave scenic beauty, variety, and quiet trails. From sandstone canyons and glacial hills to forest preserves and river bluffs, the Prairie State offers hiking adventures that surprise and inspire. Below are 20 popular and beloved hiking trails found across Illinois state parks and recreation areas.

1. Starved Rock State Park – Overlook & Canyon Trails

Starved Rock is Illinois’ most famous hiking destination, featuring around 13 miles of trails through deep sandstone canyons and forested river overlooks. Waterfalls flow in spring and after rains, making this park a year-round favorite for hikers and photographers alike.

2. Matthiessen State Park – Dells & Canyon Trails

Just south of Starved Rock, Matthiessen offers rugged, scenic hiking through dramatic canyons, bridges, waterfalls, and lush forest. It’s one of Illinois’ most photogenic parks and a must-see for waterfall seekers.

3. Giant City State Park – Nature Trail

Located in southern Illinois, this park’s namesake trail winds through ancient sandstone formations and dense woodlands. The short, striking loop showcases the “Giant City Streets” — towering walls of rock that make it feel like a natural fortress.

4. River to River Trail

Stretching roughly 160 miles across southern Illinois, the River to River Trail connects the Ohio and Mississippi Rivers through the Shawnee National Forest. Hikers can explore segments within several state parks for a mix of rugged climbs, ridgelines, and sweeping views.

5. Mississippi Palisades State Park – Sentinel Trail

Overlooking the Mississippi River, the Sentinel Trail is steep and scenic, winding through limestone cliffs, forest, and panoramic overlooks. It’s one of the most dramatic hiking experiences in the state.

6. Rock Island Trail State Park

This 26-mile converted rail-trail offers a gentle, multi-use path through woodlands, farms, and prairies. It’s ideal for longer, easy hikes or biking through central Illinois’ countryside.

7. Kickapoo State Recreation Area – Out & Back Trail

Once a mined landscape, Kickapoo now boasts rolling hills, lakes, and reforested terrain. Its main trail winds through hardwood forests and around reclaimed ponds, offering great wildlife viewing opportunities.

8. Trail of Tears State Forest – Backpacking Loops

Located in the rugged Shawnee Hills, this forest includes about 22 miles of hiking and equestrian trails through oak-hickory forest and steep hollows. It’s a peaceful escape into true southern Illinois wilderness.

9. Illinois Beach State Park – Lakefront Trail

Along Lake Michigan’s shoreline, this park’s trails weave through dunes, prairies, and beach habitats. Sunrises over the water make for spectacular morning hikes.

10. Buffalo Rock State Park – Bluff Trails

Perched above the Illinois River, Buffalo Rock offers short bluff trails with sweeping river views. It’s a relaxing hike with unique geological formations and plenty of open sky.

11. Rock Cut State Park – Pierce Lake Loop

One of northern Illinois’ largest parks, Rock Cut features over 40 miles of trails, including forest loops and lakeside routes around Pierce and Olson Lakes. It’s popular for both hiking and winter cross-country skiing.

12. Apple River Canyon State Park – Canyon Trail

Hidden in the state’s northwest corner, this park delivers rugged, beautiful terrain shaped by the Apple River. Trails pass through canyon walls, forested slopes, and secluded valleys.

13. Castle Rock State Park – Bluff Overlook Trail

Castle Rock’s trails follow ridgelines and ravines above the Rock River, offering rewarding bluff-top views. The overlook deck is a favorite for photographers and bird watchers.

14. Allerton Park & Retreat Center Trails

Part sculpture garden, part natural area, Allerton’s 14 miles of trails mix formal gardens with oak woods and prairie paths. It’s a relaxing and artistic hiking experience unlike any other in Illinois.

15. Moraine Hills State Park – Lakes & Glacial Hills Trails

This northern Illinois gem showcases glacial terrain with rolling hills, wetlands, and forested paths. The Lake Defiance Loop is a peaceful and scenic favorite.

16. Pere Marquette State Park – River Bluffs Trail

Located near Grafton, Pere Marquette offers some of the best views of the Illinois and Mississippi Rivers. Trails climb through wooded bluffs to panoramic overlooks and observation points.

17. Forest Glen Preserve – Backpack Loop

On the eastern side of the state, this preserve features an 11-mile backcountry loop through deep ravines and old-growth forest. It’s an unexpected wilderness escape for central Illinois hikers.

18. Lake of the Woods Forest Preserve Trail

This 3-mile path combines prairie, river, and forest scenery. It’s an easy, family-friendly hike ideal for nature walks or short trail runs.

19. Hennepin Canal Parkway Trail

Stretching more than 90 miles, this historic canal trail follows the Hennepin waterway through open countryside and small towns. Flat and scenic, it’s great for long walks and bike rides.

20. Shabbona Lake State Park – Chief Shabbona Trail

This gentle loop trail offers lakeside views and peaceful woodland walking near the park’s namesake lake. It’s a great choice for beginners or a quiet evening hike.

Whether you’re chasing waterfalls at Starved Rock, exploring forested ridges in the Shawnee Hills, or enjoying quiet lakeside trails near Chicago, Illinois delivers a surprising variety of hikes for every adventurer. Lace up your boots and blaze your trail through the Prairie State!