Hiking in the Prairie State leads to places you can only imagine in your dreams. It’s the land of fascinating rock formations, forest, prairie, rivers, scenic overlooks, and numerous canyons. Starved Rock State Park is known for its 18 sandstone canyons that were formed by melting glacial water millions of years ago and its 13 miles of hiking trails that lead to adventure and unrivaled scenery. The trail to one canyon, the picturesque La Salle Canyon, has everything you could ever want in a scenic hike: water views, sandstone cliffs, and a waterfall. In short, it’s one natural wonder everyone should visit at least once.
Trek to La Salle Canyon on a 2.3-mile out and back trail that features forest, a waterfall, cave, and river views. This trail is rated as moderate with an elevation gain of 209 feet.
Rich Lalley/AllTrails
Be prepared to get some good exercise with this hike. Close to the trailhead are numerous stairs to climb, but it’s so worth it when you get to the top! The trail itself, however, is mostly flat with a few boardwalks and gravel in some areas.
jamie Endicott/AllTrails
On the way to the canyon, you’ll walk along the banks of the Illinois River which just adds to the allure of this trek.
Rich Lalley/AllTrails
Sandstone cliffs tower above as you walk past and the closer you get to the canyon, you will start to see waterfalls.
Rich Lalley/AllTrails
After all the unparalleled scenery you’ve just hiked through, nothing compares to seeing the canyon itself and the waterfall cascading down the rocks. It’s a breathtaking sight that’s worth it after a somewhat challenging hike.
Holly Allison/AllTrails You can also walk behind this waterfall to take some epic photographs if you so choose.
Although all of Starved Rock State Park’s canyons have waterfalls after the snow melts, La Salle Canyon’s waterfall is one of the longest-lasting and most stunning.
guano/Flickr
It’s easy to see why the hike to La Salle Canyon is a favorite among visitors. If you want to explore more of Starved Rock State Park, the trails easily connect to each other and lead to the other canyons.
Tom Gill/Flickr
Rich Lalley/AllTrails
jamie Endicott/AllTrails
Holly Allison/AllTrails
You can also walk behind this waterfall to take some epic photographs if you so choose.
guano/Flickr
Tom Gill/Flickr
Have you hiked to La Salle Canyon or any of the other stunning canyons at Starved Rock State Park? Tell us about your hike in the comment section.
To view the trail to La Salle Canyon and read what other hikers have to say, visit the Alltrails webpage.
If you plan on taking a couple of days to explore this state park, book an overnight stay at Starved Rock Lodge.
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