Whiskey Cave Loop Trail In Illinois Is Full Of Awe-Inspiring Rock Formations
By Clarisa|Published July 22, 2022
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Clarisa
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Born and raised Kansan, Clarisa has lived in both tiny towns and cities during their time here in the Sunflower State. As a busy mother of one crazy kid, two cats, and two geckos, they write whenever there is spare time.
Does hiking to a natural beauty leave you feeling accomplished? If you need a hiking challenge and would enjoy adventuring somewhere full of rock formations in Illinois, this trail is a great choice. The payoff for the work required to get through this trail is the beauty you’ll enjoy at every point. Are you ready for a challenge?
Today's adventure heads out to Whiskey Cave Loop Trail, a spot in the Garden of the Gods Wilderness area that will take you by all of the state's favorite rock formations.
Though it's a hard level hiking trail with a good 990 feet of elevation gain, it's worth the effort. The path runs just 6.5 miles long, taking an average three hours to finish. If you have the extra time, going slowly can make it an easier hike for many!
Almost like a tour of the area, the trail system features Arch of the Gods, both Buzzard Cave and Buzzard Point, Rhombus Rock, Mushroom Rock, and Whiskey Cave Falls. There are more rock formations that are less recognizable by name that are also included, as a bonus!
All of these great rock formations are Illinois classics, and worth a visit even just once. After all, how many big mushroom shaped rocks have you seen?
Traversing in and out of caves and beneath beautiful trees, adventure awaits at every corner. During the wet season, there are even waterfalls to see! Out here, there's a little bit of everything to enjoy.
Make sure that you always bring everything back with you that you brought out, no matter what it's made of. It's always a good idea to only take photos -- and memories -- in natural places like this.
