Wildcat Canyon: Starved Rock's Tallest
Explore Wildcat Canyon in Starved Rock State Park: Hike scenic trails and discover the beauty of Illinois's tallest canyon and its seasonal waterfall.
Wildcat Canyon in Starved Rock State Park is the tallest canyon in the park, boasting a 90-foot waterfall and scenic overlooks. Visitors can explore the canyon from above via the Bluff Trail or descend into the canyon for an up-close view of the seasonal waterfall.
A brief summary to Wildcat Canyon
- River Trail, Oglesby, Illinois, 61348, US
- +1815-667-4211
- Visit website
Local tips
- Visit during spring or after heavy rainfall to see Wildcat Canyon's waterfall at its fullest.
- Wear sturdy shoes, as the trails can be steep and slippery, especially near the waterfall.
- Arrive early, especially on weekends and holidays, to secure parking.
- Stay on marked trails and be aware of the dangers of slippery rocks and steep drop-offs.
Getting There
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Driving
From Ottawa, head west on IL-71 for about 9 miles, then turn right onto E 875th Street to enter Starved Rock State Park. Follow signs for the main parking areas. Parking is free. From the parking lot, follow the trail to Wildcat Canyon.
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Walking
From the Starved Rock Visitor Center, follow the paved path east towards Wildcat Canyon. The wide, paved trail will lead to a four-way junction; continue straight. The hike to Wildcat Canyon is approximately 1.3 miles. Follow the signs to the canyon and its overlooks.
Discover more about Wildcat Canyon
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Starved Rock Family Campground
6.6 km
A family-owned campground near Starved Rock State Park, offering a peaceful retreat with modern amenities and a welcoming community.
Westclox Museum
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Explore the history of timekeeping at the Westclox Museum, located in the original factory in Peru, Illinois. A fascinating look at an iconic American company.
Starved Rock Country
12.3 km
Explore stunning canyons, waterfalls, and historic sites in Illinois' Starved Rock Country, a Midwest gem.
Wild Bill Hickok State Memorial
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Explore the humble Illinois origins of Wild Bill Hickok, legendary lawman and icon of the American Wild West, at his birthplace memorial in Troy Grove.
Middle East Conflicts Wall Memorial
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Indian Creek Massacre Historic Site
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Owen Lovejoy House
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Gebhard Brewery Building
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Robert Waugh House
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Edith Farnsworth House
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Silver Springs State Fish and Wildlife Area
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Oughton Estate Windmill
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Strevell House
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Hennepin Canal Parkway State Park
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The Kendall County Historical Society - Lyon Farm
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Unmissable attractions to see
Beehive Overlook Beach
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Pontiac Canyon
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Eagle Cliff Overlook
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Sandstone Overlook
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Lonetree Canyon
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Lover's Leap Overlook
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Experience the stunning views of the Illinois River at Lover's Leap Overlook, a must-visit scenic spot in Oglesby, Illinois.
French Canyon
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Starved Rock
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Explore the breathtaking Starved Rock in Deer Park Township, Illinois, where stunning landscapes and outdoor adventures await at every turn.
Illinois Waterway Visitors Center
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Explore the Illinois Waterway Visitors Center for breathtaking views, fascinating exhibits, and a chance to connect with nature along the Illinois River.
Starved Rock State Park Visitor Center
1.0 km
Explore the beauty of nature at the Starved Rock State Park Visitor Center, your gateway to Illinois' outdoor adventures and rich cultural heritage.
Starved Rock Lodge & Conference Center
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Saint Louis Canyon Trailhead
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Starved Rock State Park
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LaSalle Canyon
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Starved Rock State Park Campground
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Essential places to dine
The Back Door Lounge
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Starved Rock Lodge Restaurant
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Main Dining Room at Starved Rock Lodge
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Jack's Place Restaurant & Bar
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Año Del Gallo
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Bear Island Outdoor Bar & Grill
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Captain's Cove Bar & Grill At Starved Rock Marina
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Lodi Tap House - Utica
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Canal Port
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Skoog's Pub & Grill
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Mr. Salsa's, Inc.
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Claudette's
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Brennan's
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CortiLeno's
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Starved Rock River and Trail Supply
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Jamie's OutPost
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Bakery & Cafe Nonies
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Jack's Camp Store
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The Rock and Soul
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The Bickerman Building
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Bruce & Ollie's Ice Cream, Specialty Coffee & Deli
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Love's Travel Stop
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Green Thumb Industries
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Nina's Market
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Guitar Junkyard & String Instrument Museum
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E & B Tobacco & Liquor
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Bulldogs Bar
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Mercer's Rooftop
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Lizzie's Lounge
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Archway Tap
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Morts
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Greg’s Dew Drop Inn LLC
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Doc's Pub
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Speakeasy on 1st
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The Camden Bar and Lounge
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Buzzy's
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the Dugout tavern
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