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Wildcat Canyon, Starved Rock State Park Travel Guide

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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

  • Monday 6:30 am-9 pm
  • Tuesday 6:30 am-9 pm
  • Wednesday 6:30 am-9 pm
  • Thursday 6:30 am-9 pm
  • Friday 6:30 am-9 pm
  • Saturday 6:30 am-9 pm
  • Sunday 6:30 am-9 pm
Eve
From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Wildcat Canyon.

  • 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.

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Getting There

  • 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.

  • 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

Wildcat Canyon stands as the tallest canyon within Starved Rock State Park, offering visitors a chance to witness a stunning 90-foot waterfall during wetter seasons. The canyon's name evokes a sense of untamed wilderness, inviting exploration and appreciation of natural beauty.The Bluff Trail provides access to overlooks that offer stunning views into the canyon. For a closer experience, a trail descends into the canyon, leading to the base of the waterfall. The interplay of water and sandstone has sculpted unique formations, creating a captivating environment for hikers.While the waterfall's flow diminishes during dry conditions, the canyon retains its charm with its towering rock formations and lush vegetation. The canyon is easily accessible and is a popular destination within the park. The park was established in 1911 and has since become Illinois's most visited state park.
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