VerdictDestinations 🛡️ Independent — no pay-to-rank🔎 Graded for who you are✓ Verified 2026-06-17How we grade → The verdict
Who it's worth it for
Great for
- Travellers on a budget
- Families with kids
- Couples
- Solo travellers
- Nature lovers
- Adventurers
Depends
- If you've only got a day
- Anyone here to unwind
Worth it for travellers on a budget, families with kids and couples.
Why we say this
Insider secrets & local vibes
Eighteen sandstone canyons with seasonal waterfalls and river bluffs make it Illinois's best hiking by a distance.
Not independently verified — estimatedIt requires a car and a full day, about 95 miles southwest of the city.
Not independently verified — estimatedIt gets very crowded on nice weekends, and the falls are best only after rain or a spring thaw.
Not independently verified — estimatedWhat it feels like
Reading the room, traveller by traveller
With friends
A satisfying full-day hiking escape for an outdoorsy group with a car.
As a couple
A scenic nature day-trip away from the city, best after rain for the falls.
With kids
Manageable canyon trails for active families, though it's a long day out.
Good to know
Before you go
Cost
Free entry (car/gas needed)
- Best time
- Spring thaw or after rain for the strongest waterfalls; weekdays to avoid crowds.
- Getting there
- About 95 miles southwest of Chicago; car access only.
- Accessibility
- Many canyon trails involve stairs and uneven terrain; limited accessible routes.
Alternatives
If it's not your thing, try
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🛡️ Independent — no pay-to-rank🔎 Graded for who you are✓ Verified 2026-06-17How we grade →