An ancient forest near Mt. Carmel, Illinois is home to trees that are 120 feet tall and older than just about anything else in the state. Known as an old-growth forest, this historic land has been disturbed by few and is a tranquil place to go hiking.

Take a walk through a living museum when you visit this natural arboretum. Many tree species, gorgeous views, and meandering trails await. Scroll on for more details.

Established as a state park in 1966, Beall Woods encompasses 635 acres of stunning southern Illinois bordering the Wabash River.
Google/David Switzer
About 330 acres of these woods are old-growth forest containing mostly hardwood trees. The trees here are taller than any other trees in the entire park.
Google/Amy Dawn Whitlock
There are more than six miles of splendid hiking trails throughout this excellent state park, which allows guests to marvel at more than 64 species of trees.
Google/Amy Dawn Whitlock

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Some trees stand more than 120 feet tall with diameters of three feet. You'll find white oak, tulip, sycamore, and American sweetgum trees.
Google/Amy Dawn Whitlock
No matter the weather, it is fun to explore this little-known nature preserve for everchanging scenery and diverse ecosystems.
Google/Amy Dawn Whitlock
Some of the oldest trees in the state and Midwest are found at this park, so you'll be walking amongst history when you visit here.
Google/Amy Dawn Whitlock
A visitors' center opened in 2001 to greet hikers looking for more information about this park, so don't pass up a chance to check that out as well.
Google/Mark Van Moer

For more like this, check out these seven short and easy hikes anyone can take in Illinois.

If you’ve ever been to this ancient forest, we’d love to hear from you. Please share your experiences and photos with us below in the comments.

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9285 Beall Woods Fire Ln, Mt Carmel, IL 62863, USA