Spend The Day Exploring Illinois’ Tallest Falls On This Wonderful Waterfall Road Trip

Although the Prairie State isn't known for having the tallest waterfalls in the country like California and Hawaii, it still has some impressive ones just the same. If you are looking for a scenic road trip, here is one leading to the tallest waterfall in Illinois. You'll notice that there are several grouped together, from two that are close to each other up north within Starved Rock State Park and a few that are close together in the south around Shawnee National Forest. This waterfall road trip in Illinois can easily be split up into two days. You can use the interactive map and add any stops you would like to make along the way to these waterfalls in Illinois.

This trip is a total of 342 miles with just under six hours of drive time. Keep in mind how long you would like to spend at each waterfall and add that to your trip time.

Some hiking will be involved to see these falls, so be prepared with a good pair of hiking boots and anything else you may need!

1. Wildcat Canyon Falls, Oglesby

Wildcat Canyon has the tallest waterfall within Starved Rock State Park at 70 feet. However, its flow is dependent on rain. Although it can be quite a difficult hike to get there, the Campanula Trail is the easiest choice as it is shorter. There is also a creek crossing which may be deep after it rains. This impressive waterfall can also be viewed from the boardwalk along the trail.

2. St. Louis Canyon Falls, Oglesby

Also within Starved Rock State Park, St. Louis Canyon Falls is an 80-foot tall, spring-fed waterfall which makes it last longer than most. Like Wildcat Canyon Falls, you can park at the Visitor's Center and take a 1.5-mile-long trail. Get an in-depth overview of the beauty of St. Louis canyon trail and waterfalls:

3. Bork Falls, Goreville

Heading south, stop at the 100-foot-tall Bork's Falls which also has a swimming hole. If you're here on a hot day, feel free to go for a swim. There are a couple of ways to access this waterfall: take a 3.7-mile hike through a series of trails or park on Happy Hollow Road for a much shorter hike. Just set aside some extra time for swimming at this waterfall!

4. Burden Falls, Pope County

Burden Falls has a 20-foot cascade over a sandstone cliff into a creek that then gradually descends another 80 feet. This Shawnee National Forest waterfall is one of the most popular in the southern part of the state and is surrounded by fascinating rock formations. It's definitely worth a visit! See what it would look like in person to watch Burden Falls flowing:

5. Jackson Falls, Simpson

Jackson Falls is a seasonal waterfall, approximately 60 feet tall, that is also found within the Shawnee National Forest. It is great to visit any time of year. In winter, it freezes over and is a popular spot for ice climbing. At other times of the year, the rocks surrounding the waterfall are ideal for rock climbing. Follow along on this hike to find out how to get to Jackson Falls:

Are you ready for this waterfall road trip in Illinois? What are some of your favorite falls throughout the state? Please let us know in the comments. Be sure to check out one of the most underrated waterfalls in Illinois.