Tucked away in Starved Rock State Park is a waterfall loop trail that every Illinoisan needs to see. Known for its miraculous views and an amazing canyon waterfall, this incredible path makes for the perfect summer day.

This short hike is accessible for just about anyone. Scroll on to check out all the natural wonders found here.

Lover's Leap Overlook Trail is a short hiking path through Starved Rock State Park near Oglesby that is named for an unfortunate event that is rumored to have occurred centuries ago.
AllTrails/Caleb Miller
Keep reading for the full heartbreaking tale of what happened at this overlook.
Illinoisans love this 1.7-mile loop trail that goes by the Illinois River and leads to an unforgettable waterfall. Don't forget to bring your camera along on this gorgeous hike.
AllTrails/Paul Bojan
Scroll to the end to see one of the most amazing waterfall canyons in the Land of Lincoln.

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Guests who take this highly-traveled trail will endure a plethora of stairs, but the reward is a view that puts you on top of the world. Wildflowers and wildlife are also common along this waterfall loop trail.
AllTrails/Caleb Miller
Now for the story behind the origin of the name Lover's Leap. It is a classic Romeo and Juliet tale of star-crossed lovers. Two young Native Americans from separate tribes were forbidden from being together, and so they threw themselves from the top of this overlook.
AllTrails/Caleb Miller
It is thought that the lovers wanted to die in each others arms and that they embraced while taking the plunge.
Finally, here it is. This wonderful trail leads to a canyon that spouts a stream of water from above. Many hikers love to traverse this spot to enjoy this natural yet unique wonder.
AllTrails/Gio Rizzo

This trail is located west of the Starved Rock State Park visitor center and is open for hiking during daylight hours. For more like this, check out five waterfalls in Illinois hiding in plain sight.

If you’ve ever hiked this waterfall loop trail, we’d love to hear from you. Please share your experiences and photos with us below in the comments.

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