Discover the Majestic Kaskaskia Canyon
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Kaskaskia Canyon in Illinois, a perfect hiking destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Kaskaskia Canyon in Ottawa, Illinois, is a breathtaking hiking destination nestled along the scenic Illinois River. Known for its stunning geological formations and vibrant landscapes, this natural wonder is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. With its expansive trails and captivating views, Kaskaskia Canyon invites tourists to immerse themselves in the beauty of the great outdoors.
A brief summary to Kaskaskia Canyon Illinois
- Kaskask Canyon, Ottawa, IL, 61350, US
Local tips
- Wear sturdy hiking shoes to navigate the trails safely.
- Visit during the early morning or late afternoon for the best lighting and fewer crowds.
- Bring plenty of water and snacks for your hike.
- Don’t forget your camera to capture the stunning views from the overlooks.
- Check the weather forecast before your visit to ensure a safe hiking experience.
Getting There
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Car
From Matthiessen State Park, start by exiting the park through the main entrance. Turn right onto IL-178 N and continue for approximately 1 mile. Merge onto I-80 W via the ramp to Chicago. After about 10 miles, take exit 90 for IL-23 N toward Ottawa. Continue on IL-23 N for about 7 miles until you reach Ottawa. Once in Ottawa, follow the signs to Kaskaskia Canyon, which is located near the intersection of E. 6th Rd and Kaskaskia Canyon Rd.
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Public Transportation
Public transportation options from Matthiessen State Park are limited. Visitors can take a taxi or rideshare service from the park to the nearest public transit hub in Ottawa. Once in Ottawa, you can use local taxis or rideshare services to reach Kaskaskia Canyon. Ensure you arrange for transportation in advance, as public transit may not be readily available.
Discover more about Kaskaskia Canyon Illinois
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Starved Rock Family Campground
9.5 km
Experience the natural beauty and adventure of Starved Rock Family Campground, a perfect getaway for families and outdoor enthusiasts in Illinois.
Starved Rock Country
9.9 km
Explore the breathtaking landscapes and outdoor adventures of Starved Rock Country, a hidden gem in Illinois perfect for nature lovers and hikers.
I&M Canal Boat
12.7 km
Explore the historic I&M Canal Boat in La Salle, IL, where scenic boat tours meet rich history and natural beauty.
Westclox Museum
14.0 km
Explore the fascinating history of clock-making at the Westclox Museum, where timekeeping comes alive through engaging exhibits and rich storytelling.
Middle East Conflicts Wall Memorial
19.6 km
Explore the Middle East Conflicts Wall Memorial in Marseilles, IL, a moving tribute to the brave service members of Middle East conflicts, fostering remembrance and reflection.
Wild Bill Hickok State Memorial
21.3 km
Discover the Wild Bill Hickok State Memorial in Troy Grove, a historical landmark celebrating the legendary gunslinger and lawman of the Wild West.
Indian Creek Massacre Historic Site
27.0 km
Explore the Indian Creek Massacre Historic Site in Earlville, Illinois, a poignant landmark reflecting on the complexities of American history.
Owen Lovejoy House
42.7 km
Explore the Owen Lovejoy House in Princeton, IL, and uncover the remarkable story of an American abolitionist's fight for freedom and equality.
Gebhard Brewery Building
43.4 km
Discover the historical significance and architectural beauty of the Gebhard Brewery Building in Morris, Illinois, a must-visit landmark for history lovers.
Oughton Estate Windmill
49.4 km
Explore the Oughton Estate Windmill in Dwight, Illinois, a historical landmark that beautifully showcases the region's rich heritage and stunning architecture.
Silver Springs State Fish and Wildlife Area
50.5 km
Discover the beauty and serenity of Silver Springs State Fish and Wildlife Area, a top destination for outdoor adventure and wildlife exploration in Yorkville, Illinois.
Edith Farnsworth House
50.5 km
Explore the Edith Farnsworth House, an architectural marvel in Illinois, showcasing the brilliance of modernist design and serene natural beauty.
Robert Waugh House
51.6 km
Explore the Robert Waugh House, a historic gem in Sparland, Illinois, showcasing unique architecture and rich local history.
Strevell House
53.9 km
Explore the captivating history and architectural beauty of Strevell House, a must-visit historical landmark in Pontiac, Illinois.
The Kendall County Historical Society - Lyon Farm
58.3 km
Explore the rich history of Kendall County at The Kendall County Historical Society - Lyon Farm, a charming historical museum in Yorkville, Illinois.
Unmissable attractions to see
Illinois Canyon
0.5 km
Explore Illinois Canyon, a stunning hiking area in Starved Rock State Park, featuring breathtaking views, waterfalls, and diverse wildlife.
Hennepin Canyon
1.0 km
Discover the serene hiking trails and breathtaking vistas of Hennepin Canyon, a hidden gem in Oglesby, Illinois, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts.
Owl Canyon Overlook
1.7 km
Experience the breathtaking vistas and serene trails at Owl Canyon Overlook, a must-visit hiking destination in Oglesby, Illinois.
KAYAK STARVED ROCK CAMPGROUND
2.0 km
Discover adventure and tranquility at Kayak Starved Rock Campground, your gateway to nature's wonders in Illinois.
Catlin Park
2.2 km
Explore Catlin Park in Ottawa, Illinois, where lush landscapes and tranquil trails create the perfect backdrop for outdoor adventures and family fun.
LaSalle Canyon
2.2 km
Experience the stunning landscapes and exhilarating hiking trails at LaSalle Canyon, an unforgettable natural wonder in Illinois.
Starved Rock State Park
2.2 km
Explore the breathtaking beauty and diverse wildlife at Starved Rock State Park, a top destination in Illinois for outdoor adventures and stunning landscapes.
Starved Rock State Park Campground
2.6 km
Experience the beauty of nature at Starved Rock State Park Campground, a premier destination for camping, hiking, and outdoor adventures in Illinois.
Lonetree Canyon
2.8 km
Explore the breathtaking beauty of Lonetree Canyon in Oglesby, IL, a serene hiking area perfect for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Sandstone Overlook
2.8 km
Discover the enchanting Sandstone Overlook in Oglesby, Illinois, where stunning views and serene hiking trails await nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers.
Wildcat Canyon
3.4 km
Explore the stunning landscapes and rich wildlife of Wildcat Canyon, a premier hiking destination in Illinois offering breathtaking trails and natural beauty.
Beehive Overlook Beach
3.6 km
Discover the serene beauty of Beehive Overlook Beach, a perfect hiking and picnic spot along the scenic River Trail in Oglesby, Illinois.
Pontiac Canyon
3.8 km
Discover the breathtaking vistas and serene trails of Pontiac Canyon in Oglesby, Illinois, a must-visit for hiking enthusiasts and nature lovers.
Eagle Cliff Overlook
3.8 km
Discover the breathtaking views at Eagle Cliff Overlook in Oglesby, Illinois, a perfect escape for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts.
Buffalo Rock State Park
3.8 km
Discover the natural beauty and outdoor adventures at Buffalo Rock State Park in Illinois, a serene retreat for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Essential places to dine
Captain's Cove Bar & Grill At Starved Rock Marina
1.7 km
Experience delightful dining at Captain's Cove Bar & Grill with stunning views at Starved Rock Marina – perfect for casual meals or special events.
The Back Door Lounge
4.3 km
Discover The Back Door Lounge at Starved Rock Lodge: where comfort food meets stunning nature views in Oglesby.
Starved Rock Lodge Restaurant
4.3 km
Experience exquisite dining surrounded by nature's wonders at Starved Rock Lodge Restaurant in Illinois.
Main Dining Room at Starved Rock Lodge
4.3 km
Dine amidst nature's splendor at Starved Rock Lodge's Main Dining Room—where local flavors meet stunning views.
Año Del Gallo
5.5 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Año Del Gallo in Oglesby, where delicious food meets an extensive selection of craft beers in a lively setting.
Jack's Place Restaurant & Bar
5.6 km
Discover delicious breakfasts at Jack's Place Restaurant & Bar in North Utica – where culinary delights meet cozy charm.
Bear Island Outdoor Bar & Grill
5.8 km
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Casa-Mia Lounge & Restaurant
6.6 km
Discover Casa-Mia Lounge & Restaurant in Naplate: A top-rated American eatery serving delicious cuisine in a cozy atmosphere.
Canal Port
6.7 km
Discover Canal Port: A premier American dining experience blending delicious cuisine with vibrant entertainment in North Utica.
Lodi Tap House - Utica
6.7 km
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Joy and Ed’s Bar and Grill
6.7 km
Discover Joy and Ed's Bar and Grill in North Utica - where comfort food meets friendly service in a cozy setting.
Skoog's Pub & Grill
6.7 km
Discover hearty American cuisine at Skoog's Pub & Grill in North Utica—where every meal feels like home.
Bears Den
6.9 km
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Mr. Salsa's, Inc.
9.3 km
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Claudette's
9.3 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Jack's Camp Store
5.4 km
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Starved Rock River and Trail Supply
6.3 km
Discover outdoor adventures at Starved Rock River and Trail Supply, your one-stop shop for fishing gear and local expertise near Starved Rock State Park.
Jamie's OutPost
6.4 km
Explore the best of North Utica at Jamie's OutPost, where shopping meets dining in a vibrant and welcoming atmosphere.
Bakery & Cafe Nonies
6.5 km
Experience delightful baked goods and hearty breakfasts at Bakery & Cafe Nonies, a cozy spot in North Utica, Illinois.
The Rock and Soul
6.7 km
Discover nature's artistry at The Rock and Soul, a captivating rock shop in North Utica, Illinois, filled with stunning minerals and fossils.
The Bickerman Building
6.7 km
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Bruce & Ollie's Ice Cream, Specialty Coffee & Deli
6.7 km
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Love's Travel Stop
9.0 km
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Spaces
9.6 km
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Iconic Boutique
9.7 km
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A Mess Of Things.
9.8 km
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Jeremiah Joe Coffee - Downtown Ottawa
9.8 km
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Walmart Supercenter
11.7 km
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Green Thumb Industries
11.8 km
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Nina's Market
12.6 km
Experience authentic Mexican flavors at Nina's Market, where grocery shopping meets delightful dining in La Salle, Illinois.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
J.H. Higby's
5.7 km
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Red's City Limits/ Clarks Run Campground
7.3 km
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Kasap's Tavern
9.0 km
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Laura's East End Tap
9.1 km
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Bulldogs Bar
9.5 km
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Mercer's Rooftop
9.6 km
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Lizzie's Lounge
9.8 km
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Archway Tap
10.2 km
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Greg’s Dew Drop Inn LLC
12.2 km
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Morts
12.2 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of La Salle at Morts, where local brews and a lively atmosphere await every visitor.
Doc's Pub
12.5 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere at Doc's Pub in La Salle, Illinois, where locals and travelers come together for great drinks and live music.
Speakeasy on 1st
12.6 km
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The Camden Bar and Lounge
12.8 km
Experience the charm of The Camden Bar and Lounge, where great drinks and a welcoming atmosphere await in La Salle, Illinois.
Sanctuary LaSalle
13.0 km
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Buzzy's
13.0 km
Experience the lively atmosphere of Buzzy's, La Salle's favorite bar for affordable drinks and unforgettable nightlife.
