Matthiessen State Park: A Canyon Escape

Matthiessen State Park, a hidden gem in Illinois, beckons with its dramatic canyons and captivating history. Located a few miles south of the more famous Starved Rock State Park, Matthiessen offers a distinctive landscape shaped by water erosion over centuries. Originally owned by Frederick William Matthiessen, a prominent industrialist and philanthropist, the land was transformed into a private park called 'Deer Park' in the late 19th century. Matthiessen invested in constructing trails, bridges, and dams, creating a scenic retreat for his family and guests. After his death, the land was donated to the State of Illinois and opened to the public in 1943, renamed in his honor. The park is divided into two main areas: the Dells Area and the Vermilion River Area. The Dells Area features the Upper and Lower Dells, a mile-long canyon carved by a stream flowing from Matthiessen Lake to the Vermilion River. Here, visitors can explore unique rock formations, cascading waterfalls like Cascade Falls and Lake Falls, and mineral springs that attract local wildlife. The Vermilion River Area offers beautiful forest and river views, with trails for hiking, horseback riding, and mountain biking. Visitors can explore the park's five miles of well-marked hiking trails, ranging from easy paths along the bluff tops to more challenging routes into the dells. Popular sights include the Giant's Bathtub, Devil's Paintbox, and Strawberry Rock. The park also features a restored French fort, a nod to the region's early history. Matthiessen State Park provides a diverse range of outdoor activities, including hunting, fishing, cross-country skiing, and horseback riding.