We Bet You Didn't Know There Was A Miniature Niagara Falls In Illinois
By Linze Rice|Published May 10, 2023
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Linze Rice
Author
Ope! From the rural cornfields of DeKalb County, Linze is an Illinois native and true Midwestern gal who can make a mean bonfire and whip up a perfect marshmallow salad. Since 2014, her bylines and photography have appeared in the Chicago Tribune, Chicago Magazine, Chicago Sun-Times, and Block Club Chicago/DNAinfo Chicago, Only in Your State, and more. She has interviewed Dolly Parton, written about beloved diners along historic Route 66, visited the last Rainforest Cafe in the Illinois, and reviewed luxurious English manor-inspired hotels. Whether it's writing about a local gem or world-renowned establishment, Linze brings a heartwarming and historical perspective to each story, using facts, wit, and personal experience to impress upon readers the importance of culture, food, travel, and all things local. Her favorite destinations in Illinois include Starved Rock State Park, Chicago's Edgewater neighborhood, the charming small town of Sycamore, and historic Rosehill Cemetery. When she's not writing or photographing, Linze enjoys gardening, spending time with her husband and pets, cooking, baking, and grilling, and relaxing with trashy TV.
One of the best outdoor activities in Illinois is spending time in our state parks and national forests. Abounding with natural wonders, they’re amazing places to find hidden gems in nature, whether you’re hiking, camping, or just hoping to pull over at a great lookout. I love getting to step away from the suburbs to immerse myself in the fresh air and a more peaceful environment. In fact, did you know there is a miniature Niagara Falls in Illinois? It’s one of the coolest little-known natural wonders in our state.
Burden Falls Wilderness is a 3,775-acre designated wilderness area located within the expansive Shawnee National Forest in Southern Illinois. The area is open for walking trails, horse trails, hunting, camping, and more. One of its main features is the picturesque Burden Falls waterfall.
The fall is divided into several tiers, with a 20-ft. drop and another 80-ft. drop being the most striking as they flow into a small reservoir below. It's actually the highest free-falling waterfall in Illinois!
Spring through fall, the waterfall is active when Burden Creek cascades over multiple sandstone ledges, creating a gorgeous sight to see. It also serves as a natural water filtration system for the local ecosystem.
A major perk of the falls is that there are multiple ways to access it. One is via a 1.2-mile out-and-back trail that begins near the small town of Stonefort. Another option is to take a small gravel road called Forest Service Road 402/Burden Falls Road/McCormick Road which leads to a parking area just near the falls.
If you do decide to hike the trail, take note that it's considered moderately challenging. Your four-legged friend may join you, but needs to stay on a leash.
Whatever you do, MIND THE SLIPPERY ROCKS! This idyllic area is covered in dew, mist from the falls, plenty of vibrant mosses, and more — so make sure you have some sturdy shoes and a keen sense of your surroundings when you visit.
This breathtaking area and its natural formations, like the waterfalls, date back to the Ice Age. And after its designation as a wilderness area in 1990, this section of the park has maintained a "leave no trace" policy that keeps it as natural and undisturbed as possible.
Spring is a great time to go because with less foliage there are more sweeping views, but the falls are available to visit year-round. If you're looking to make a multi-day trip, you can also opt to set up a campsite in the park or rent a cabin.
