Find 4 Bucket-List-Level Views in Illinois Without Needing to Be an Expert Hiker

Illinois is one of the flattest states in the nation, but it is not short on remarkable views. The upside is that you can admire stunning landscapes with relatively little effort. From rugged rock formations to waterfalls and the shores of a Great Lake, you do not need to be an expert hiker to find some of the most breathtaking views in the Prairie State.

1. Mississippi Palisades State Park - Savanna

Located in northwestern Illinois near Savanna, Mississippi Palisades State Park offers some of the most unique views in the state. The park is perched above the confluence of the Mississippi and Apple rivers, overlooking wetlands and impressive rock formations. Stretching across 2,500 acres, there are plenty of ways to explore Mississippi Palisades State Park, including hiking, camping, and even rock climbing. 

Hikers of all levels can find a scenic route in the park’s 15-mile trail system. For wider trails and less strenuous trails, set out on the five trails in the northern portion of Mississippi Palisades State Park. Yet you don’t need to lace up your hiking boots to enjoy the riverfront vistas. Several overlooks allow visitors to park nearby and take a short walk to access views from the bluff. Ozzie's Point, Louis' Point, and Lookout Point, all feature a surfaced trail to an overlook, while Oak Point offers an accessible trail surface.

2. Fort Sheridan Forest Preserve - Lake Forest

Illinois delivers miles of Lake Michigan views, but one of the most peaceful and easily accessible is from Fort Sheridan north of Chicago. The unique setting is a former U.S. Army fort that is now home to residential housing and a forest preserve.

Fort Sheridan Forest Preserve offers 3.65 miles of trails in a scenic lakefront setting. Stroll along three trails along rolling hills, savanna, and ravines while admiring native plants and migratory birds. At just 0.2 miles long, the Lake Overlook Trail gently slopes up to the top of a bluff, rewarding you with a picturesque view of Lake Michigan.

3. Garden of the Gods - Herod

It is no secret that the Garden of the Gods in the Shawnee National Forest is one of the most epic views in Illinois. Looking at photos of the sandstone rock formations towering over the forest, you might imagine that hiking to these views is a feat. Yet these iconic views are remarkably easy to reach. 

The Garden of the Gods features about 5.5 miles of trails, but the biggest bang for your buck is the Observation Trail. It guides you to the park’s awe-inspiring panoramic views over a short half-mile loop. While you will encounter some elevation and rocky terrain, you do not need to travel far to experience the majesty of the Garden of the Gods.  

4. Starved Rock State Park - Oglesby

There is no doubt that Starved Rock State Park in Oglesby is one of the most popular natural destinations in Illinois. Visitors might be intimidated by its foreboding name, 13 miles of trails, and 18 canyons. Yet there are a variety of beautiful settings throughout the park, and hikers can choose their level of adventure. 

The Ottawa Canyon Trail is a 1-mile round-trip trail rated easy. While there are no stairs on the trail, you will encounter uneven surfaces and tree roots. The short trail offers much to see, starting with the Council Overhang, an enormous sandstone cavern used by Native Americans as a meeting place. Along with dramatic canyon views, you will encounter impressive waterfalls on this hike.

The next time you are looking for an epic view in Illinois that is approachable, I hope you enjoy one of these easily reachable trails. Feeling inspired? Try planning your own trip through Illinois using Only In Your State’s itinerary planner.