Discover the Breathtaking Beauty of Illinois Canyon
Explore Illinois Canyon, a stunning hiking area in Starved Rock State Park, featuring breathtaking views, waterfalls, and diverse wildlife.
Illinois Canyon, nestled in the heart of Starved Rock State Park, offers visitors stunning views, hiking trails, and a chance to connect with nature. Explore waterfalls, rock formations, and diverse wildlife in this picturesque location.
A brief summary to Illinois Canyon
- Ottawa, Illinois, 61350, US
- +1815-667-4211
- Visit website
- Monday 6 am-9 pm
- Tuesday 6 am-9 pm
- Wednesday 6 am-9 pm
- Thursday 6 am-9 pm
- Friday 6 am-9 pm
- Saturday 6 am-9 pm
- Sunday 6 am-9 pm
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy the tranquility of nature.
- Wear sturdy hiking boots as some trails can be rocky and uneven.
- Bring plenty of water and snacks, especially if you plan to hike the longer trails.
- Check the weather forecast before your visit and dress in layers for changing conditions.
- Keep an eye out for local wildlife, including deer and various bird species, especially during early morning hikes.
Getting There
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Walking
From the main parking lot at Matthiessen State Park, head towards the main trailhead signs. Follow the signs directing you towards Illinois Canyon. The trail is well-marked and will take you through scenic wooded areas and past beautiful rock formations. The walk to Illinois Canyon is approximately 1 mile and should take about 30 minutes at a leisurely pace.
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Biking
If you have a bicycle, you can ride from the main parking area at Matthiessen State Park. Follow the designated biking trails that lead towards Illinois Canyon. The round trip is about 2 miles, which you can complete in approximately 15 minutes each way if biking at a moderate pace. Ensure to wear a helmet and follow all park regulations regarding biking.
Discover more about Illinois Canyon
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Starved Rock Country
9.7 km
Explore the breathtaking landscapes and outdoor adventures of Starved Rock Country, a hidden gem in Illinois perfect for nature lovers and hikers.
Starved Rock Family Campground
10.0 km
Experience the natural beauty and adventure of Starved Rock Family Campground, a perfect getaway for families and outdoor enthusiasts in Illinois.
I&M Canal Boat
13.1 km
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Westclox Museum
14.5 km
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Middle East Conflicts Wall Memorial
19.2 km
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Wild Bill Hickok State Memorial
21.8 km
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Indian Creek Massacre Historic Site
27.2 km
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Gebhard Brewery Building
43.0 km
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Owen Lovejoy House
43.2 km
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Oughton Estate Windmill
48.9 km
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Silver Springs State Fish and Wildlife Area
50.4 km
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Edith Farnsworth House
50.5 km
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Robert Waugh House
51.7 km
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Strevell House
53.4 km
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The Kendall County Historical Society - Lyon Farm
58.1 km
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Unmissable attractions to see
Kaskaskia Canyon Illinois
0.5 km
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Hennepin Canyon
1.5 km
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Catlin Park
1.7 km
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Owl Canyon Overlook
2.3 km
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KAYAK STARVED ROCK CAMPGROUND
2.3 km
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LaSalle Canyon
2.7 km
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Starved Rock State Park
2.8 km
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Starved Rock State Park Campground
3.0 km
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Lonetree Canyon
3.3 km
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Sandstone Overlook
3.4 km
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Buffalo Rock State Park
3.8 km
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Wildcat Canyon
3.9 km
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Beehive Overlook Beach
4.1 km
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Pontiac Canyon
4.3 km
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Eagle Cliff Overlook
4.3 km
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Essential places to dine
Captain's Cove Bar & Grill At Starved Rock Marina
2.1 km
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The Back Door Lounge
4.8 km
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Starved Rock Lodge Restaurant
4.8 km
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Main Dining Room at Starved Rock Lodge
4.9 km
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Año Del Gallo
5.9 km
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Jack's Place Restaurant & Bar
6.1 km
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Bear Island Outdoor Bar & Grill
6.2 km
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Casa-Mia Lounge & Restaurant
6.4 km
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Bears Den
6.7 km
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Canal Port
7.2 km
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Lodi Tap House - Utica
7.2 km
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Joy and Ed’s Bar and Grill
7.2 km
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Skoog's Pub & Grill
7.3 km
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Mr. Salsa's, Inc.
9.7 km
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Claudette's
9.7 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Jack's Camp Store
5.7 km
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Starved Rock River and Trail Supply
6.8 km
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Jamie's OutPost
7.0 km
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Bakery & Cafe Nonies
7.0 km
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The Rock and Soul
7.2 km
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The Bickerman Building
7.2 km
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Bruce & Ollie's Ice Cream, Specialty Coffee & Deli
7.2 km
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Spaces
9.4 km
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Love's Travel Stop
9.5 km
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Iconic Boutique
9.5 km
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A Mess Of Things.
9.6 km
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Jeremiah Joe Coffee - Downtown Ottawa
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Walmart Supercenter
11.6 km
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Green Thumb Industries
12.2 km
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Nina's Market
13.1 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
J.H. Higby's
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Red's City Limits/ Clarks Run Campground
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Kasap's Tavern
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Laura's East End Tap
9.5 km
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Bulldogs Bar
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Mercer's Rooftop
10.0 km
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Lizzie's Lounge
10.2 km
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Archway Tap
10.7 km
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Greg’s Dew Drop Inn LLC
12.7 km
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Morts
12.7 km
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Doc's Pub
13.0 km
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Speakeasy on 1st
13.1 km
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The Camden Bar and Lounge
13.3 km
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Sanctuary LaSalle
13.5 km
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Buzzy's
13.5 km
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