Some of us love hiking for the fresh air and exercise while others enjoy trekking along a trail through gorgeous scenery. Whatever the case may be for you, we can all agree that there’s nothing better than a hike to a stunning waterfall. Located in Matthiessen State Park, there’s a trail that leads to Dells Canyon and its cascading waterfall that will make this hike one to remember.
Located just south of Starved Rock State Park, Matthiessen State Park is a beautiful destination filled with canyons and rock formations, prairie, forest, streams, and waterfalls throughout its 1,936 acres.
Gary/Google
The five miles of hiking trails allow visitors to enjoy all that the park has to offer. One popular hike people enjoy is the Dells Canyon and Bluff Trail. This two-mile loop trail leads to a beautiful destination: a cascading waterfall!
Gary Hughes/AllTrails
The trail is rated moderate with an overall elevation gain of 206 feet. Be prepared to climb up and down numerous stairs as well! At least it’s a good workout, right?
Johnathon Martin/AllTrails
After the rain or a snowmelt, the trails at Matthiessen State Park get pretty darn muddy and slippery. Be sure to wear good, sturdy hiking boots and be prepared for the trail conditions.
Cherie W/AllTrails
Cascade Falls, as this waterfall is called, cascades over both the upper and lower dells within the gorge. There is a 45-foot drop between the dells.
Nicholas Michael/AllTrails Since it’s a seasonal waterfall, it is most impressive in the spring after a snowmelt.
At the lower dells, the waterfall drops into a lovely pool of water.
Matthew Sheaffer/AllTrails Please note: although it may be tempting, there is no swimming allowed at the waterfalls, creeks, or river in the park. You can check the website for the park’s safety rules.
Cascade Falls is a stunning natural wonder that makes the hike and climbing all those stairs worthwhile!
shawn pambianco/AllTrails
Gary/Google
Gary Hughes/AllTrails
Johnathon Martin/AllTrails
Cherie W/AllTrails
Nicholas Michael/AllTrails
Since it’s a seasonal waterfall, it is most impressive in the spring after a snowmelt.
Matthew Sheaffer/AllTrails
Please note: although it may be tempting, there is no swimming allowed at the waterfalls, creeks, or river in the park. You can check the website for the park’s safety rules.
shawn pambianco/AllTrails
Have you been to Matthiessen State Park to see Cascade Falls? Tell us all about it and share any photos you have in our Illinois Nature Lovers Facebook group! For more information on Matthiessen State Park, visit the webpage and head to AllTrails for Dells Canyon and Bluff Trail information.
To explore more waterfalls around the state, consider taking our Ultimate Illinois Waterfalls Road Trip.
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Address: Matthiessen State Park, 2500 IL-178, Oglesby, IL 61348, USA
