The Best Hiking in Oglesby

Dells Area to Vermillion River Area Loop is a 6.4 miles out-and-back trail that takes you by a waterfall located near Oglesby, Illinois.

The trail is commonly used for hiking, nature trips, and birding. Matthiessen State Park features unique vegetation, rock formations, and waterfall arrangements. 

With 5 miles of trails, which alternate between cliffs, canyons, and bluffs, Matthiessen State Park has plenty to offer. This particular trail also includes three waterfalls, along the way. From the Dells Area parking lot, head down the steps next to the log fort replica. At the 4-way junction tu...

Starting off right from the parking lot at Matthiessen State Park, follow the trail markers through the forest, across beautiful bridges, and find your way to one of the many stunning waterfalls. Depending on when you go, the water level will vary greatly. During the summer months the water level...

From the start of the parking lot you will cross a picnic area to your left where you can have a bite to eat before or after your hike. The trailhead starts off with a couple flights of stair leading you down to the bridge. After taking in the spectacular views at the top of the waterfall you wil...

The Red River Trail is open for use year round. The trail winds through beautiful canyons, streams, prairies, and forests in Matthiessen State Park. 

Park off of Joliet St. (see map) to access the trail. This trail is paved, shared by runners, hikers, and bikers, and is accessible from April to October. 

I&M Canal is a point-to-point trail that takes you by a river located near LaSalle, Illinois.

Saint Louis Canyon Trail is a 2.1 miles out-and-back trail that takes you by a waterfall located near Utica, Illinois.

Starved Rock has some very interesting rock formations you can explore.  The valley was formed by a series of floods as glacial melt waters broke through moraines, sending torrents of flood water surging across the land that eventually eroded the sandstone and sedimentary rock.  If you arrive in ...

Pontiac Canyon, Wildcat Canyon and Beehive Overlook is a loop trail that is good for all skill levels located near Oglesby, Illinois.

Eagle Cliff Overlook to Lonetree and La Salle Canyon to French Canyon Loop is a loop trail where you may see waterfall located near North Utica, Illinois.

Eagle Cliff Overlook, Wildcat Canyon, and French Canyon Loop is a loop trail where you may see waterfall located near Oglesby, Illinois.

This canyon is not as popular as some of the others in this park but it is my favorite by far. You can either hike the full 3.9 miles from the visitor center or you can jump in your car and head over to one of the parking lots on the east side for a shorter hike. Either way you will not be disap...

Starved Rock State Park is just outside of Oglesby, Illinois. The park features sandstone bluffs and the Illinois River runs through the park. Dogs are allowed on trail if kept on leash. The trail is open year-round for a variety of activities. The Lover's Leap Overlook Trail is rated as beginne...

Starved Rock State Park features great opportunities to see eagles and other birds. The trail is open year round for a variety of activities (fishing, camping, hiking, canoeing). Dogs are allowed on the trail if kept on leash.